The presentation draws attention to the recently introduced (since 1. 1. 2007) contribution to the care and stresses differences in assessing children. Both, adults and children are assessed according to the same legal directive and it is necessary to respect the characteristics of a biopsychosocial development of children. Besides the biological age, it is necessary to take into account also the abilities of peers of the same age.

        Key words: contribution to the care – long-term adverse health status – degree of dependence on the care