Long-Term Care Crisis May Be Imminent, Commission Reports

A group of current and former lawmakers, care givers and health industry experts warned that the growing population of elderly Americans – spurred by longer life spans – and greater cost of elder care will lead to the collapse of the long-term care system.

The National Commission for Quality Long-Term Care, which is co-chaired by former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and former Senator Bob Kerrey, released its recommendations along with the results of a national survey on the direction of long-term care efforts.

“The heart of the problem is how we pay for long-term care in this country. It drains individuals, families and government and does not always ensure quality. We must create a financing system that encourages savings and planning, shared responsibility and allows people the choices they need to maintain independence,” said Commission Co-Chair Newt Gingrich.

Survey respondents indicated confusion on sources of long-term care funding under the current system. According to the results one-third believe most long-term care is paid for by Medicare, one in five (20%) believe most long-term care is paid for by Medicaid and about the same amount (22%) believe individuals and their families pay for most long-term care.

Among other recommendations, the Commission emphasized providing increased professional development and financial compensation to the workforce of caregivers.

For more information on the National Commission For Quality Long-Term Care or to view survey results, visit http://www.qualitylongtermcarecommission.org/index.html.