11 Dec
The U.S. Census Bureau reports that one in four people will be over the age of 65 by 2060. Does the country have enough long-term care programs in place to guarantee senior citizens can remain at home? Elders who wish to stay in their homes should have access to reasonable, first-rate home health care, opportunities to socialize with other seniors and transportation. In Texas, 30 percent of seniors are living in or near the poverty level, and 22 percent are isolated and live alone.
More families should prepare for the care of older relatives and think about ways to enrich their last years. There are many ways to lend a hand without jeopardizing their independence. Often, it falls on the family to help pay for medical and assisted living expenses. Studies show that Americans are living longer thanks to modern medicine, but is society ready to care for the elderly? What happens to older neighbors who have no family to help?
Senior programs help serve elder residents. Programs like Meals on Wheels would not be possible without support from donations and other programs. A tireless network of staff and volunteers provide basic needs for elders. Delivery drivers visit seniors during the week and notify agencies with concerns. For some, this may be their only human contact daily.
What to do about mom and dad in their later years is a conversation that no one wants to have, but it is necessary to have a plan in place. Elders may consider purchasing long-term care insurance to help sustain their livelihood. Those in Texas who have questions regarding long-term care and elderly planning may benefit from speaking with an attorney proficient in elder law.
Source: victoriaadvocate.com, “Is society prepared to care for elderly?“, Nov. 28, 2017