By: Patti Urban, CDP, CSA, GCM
The eldercare crisis is a growing concern as the population ages and the demand for long-term care increases. With an aging population, the number of older adults requiring care is projected to rise significantly in the coming years. This will put a strain on families, caregivers, and the healthcare system as a whole.
One of the main challenges of the eldercare crisis is the lack of affordable and accessible long-term care options. Many older adults rely on family members or friends to provide care, but this can be emotionally and financially taxing for the caregiver. Additionally, many older adults are not able to afford the high costs of nursing homes or assisted living facilities.
Another issue is the shortage of qualified caregivers. As the demand for eldercare increases, there will be a shortage of trained professionals to provide care. This could lead to older adults receiving sub-standard care or being left without any care at all.
The eldercare crisis also has a significant impact on the healthcare system. As older adults age and develop chronic conditions, they require more frequent and costly medical care. This puts a strain on hospitals and healthcare providers, as well as on government-funded programs like Medicare and Medicaid.
Overall, the eldercare crisis is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach to address. Solutions will likely include a combination of public policy, healthcare reform, and community-based programs to improve access to affordable long-term care and support for caregivers.
In the meantime, long term care planning with a Geriatric Care Manager will help alleviate some of the stress associated with the Eldercare Crisis.
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Patti Urban, CDP, CSA, GCM, is the CEO of Aging Care Planning Solutions, a geriatric care management practice that assists the elderly and their families with advance care planning as well as guidance for patients with life-limiting illnesses. She is also a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Certified End of Life Doula, a Certified Senior Advisor, former Executive Director of a memory-care assisted living community, and former owner of a home care agency. She can be reached at www.agingcarePS.com.
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