The "holiday bed" concept offers a flexible accommodation option that enables senior citizens to respond to individual needs and unforeseeable circumstances at short notice. In St. Gallen, the “Wohnen am Singenberg” retirement and care home offers this special service, which provides valuable support for senior citizens and their relatives. We had the pleasure of talking to Jannica Ziegler, Deputy Head of Care at Haus Singenberg, about this service. In our insightful interview, she reveals details that show why the holiday bed is more than just temporary accommodation.
Jannica Ziegler explains that their holiday rooms are fully furnished and offer additional amenities such as TV and telephone, which are already included in the pension price. These facilities ensure that guests immediately feel at home.
"The minimum length of stay with us is seven days," explains Jannica Ziegler. "Depending on current demand and availability, we offer the option of using the holiday bed either for a limited or unlimited period of time, which is particularly helpful if someone needs temporary accommodation until a permanently suitable room becomes available."
An important aspect of the offer is the guests' own contribution. "Supplementary benefits do not cover all costs, so a daily co-payment of CHF 15 is required," she adds. Jannica emphasises that the holiday bed is not suitable for people with severe or advanced forms of dementia or complex medical conditions, as such conditions have special medical and care requirements that go beyond the offer of a holiday bed.
The holiday bed is often used by guests whose carers are away on holiday or whose spouses are currently in hospital. Pensioners who need temporary accommodation while their private home is being renovated also make use of this service, Jannica Ziegler explains.
Jannica consistently reports positive feedback: "Many appreciate the holiday bed not only as a short-term accommodation solution, but also as a chance to experience living there on a trial basis. In fact, some guests come back regularly to enjoy the benefits of our home again."
One of the biggest challenges in managing the holiday bed is dealing with vacancies or when a guest is unable to make their planned departure for health reasons and the room is already reserved for a subsequent booking. "These situations require flexible solutions and sometimes quick adjustments to our planning in order to best fulfil the needs of all those affected," Jannica explains.
Price structure and included services:
The holiday room in the retirement home costs CHF 15 more per day than a standard room in a long-term contract, as the furnishings, TV and telephone are included. The price also includes full board, weekly cleaning of the room, washing of personal clothes, a 24-hour emergency call service and use of all communal rooms, facilities and equipment.
Health insurance contribution:
Regarding the assumption of costs by the health insurance companies, Jannica explains: "The health insurance company contributes to the costs of the holiday bed, depending on the care level of the guest, in accordance with the tariffs of the Health Insurance Act."
Availability and waiting lists:
When asked about the availability of the holiday bed and possible waiting times, Jannica explains: "This varies greatly and cannot be predicted." It is advisable to enquire early to ensure availability.
As part of the holiday bed offer, Jannica Ziegler explains, holiday guests receive the same comprehensive care and nursing services as the permanent residents. This guarantees that all guests receive the support and care they need.
Personalised healthcare:
Personalised healthcare begins with a thorough intake interview, during which the guest's health status is recorded. "Based on this initial consultation, we draw up a detailed care plan," Jannica explains. Medication is administered strictly according to the plan brought along, which is carefully implemented by trained staff. In addition, medical care is provided either by the guest's own GP or by the facility's ward doctor, depending on the guest's needs and situation. "If special therapies or additional care needs are required, these are organised on an individual basis," Jannica adds. This ensures that each guest receives treatment that is precisely tailored to their personal health needs.
Jannica Ziegler explains the carefully structured admission process for the holiday bed. This process typically begins with an enquiry from relatives or medical referrers such as hospitals, GPs or clinics, which are directed to the home's admission management (EM).
"Our admission management plays a crucial role in preparing for the admission of a guest," Jannica explains. The EM takes care of clarifying all financial issues and coordinates the general practitioner's care as well as other points relevant to the contract. This careful preparation ensures that all administrative and health aspects are clarified before the guest arrives.
Jannica emphasises the importance of the right documentation for a successful admission: "We need the current medication and diagnosis list from the guest's GP, a valid certificate of residence and a copy of the passport or identity card." These documents are crucial in order to fully understand the guest's medical needs and plan accordingly.
"Our team clarifies the care requirements in detail before a guest enters the home," Jannica continues. This is particularly important for guests who are referred from medical facilities and often bring a care plan drawn up by these facilities. After the guest arrives, the nursing staff carry out a detailed assessment of their needs and customise the care plan to ensure optimal care.
Jannica Ziegler summarises: "This structured admission process enables us to provide each guest with a carefully planned and supportive environment that meets their specific needs. We ensure that each guest receives the best possible care and support during their stay in the holiday bed."
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