Private & Intramural Care: growing care needs and workforce shortages are reshaping the healthcare real estate landscape
July 1, 2026
Demand for intensive care is rising sharply, while the number of intramural care places is being capped through policy. This is one of the key findings from Bouwinvest’s Dutch Living Outlook 2026–2028. As a result, the role of private care providers is expanding rapidly, leading to a broader spectrum of housing-care concepts.
The outlook shows how these shifts create opportunities for real estate investors who want to contribute to a future-proof care infrastructure.
Key insights from the Dutch Living Outlook 2026–2028
• Care demand is increasing significantly, partly due to rising dementia rates
• The shift toward home-based care continues
• Private care providers are expanding and professionalising
• Workforce shortages intensify operational pressure
What does this mean for investors?
The outlook demonstrates that healthcare real estate is a relatively interest-rate-resilient segment supported by strong demand fundamentals. The most attractive opportunities lie in concepts that bridge the gap between home care and intramural care, supported by efficient operations and smart technological solutions. Well-positioned projects can offer stability and scope for value appreciation.
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