As seniors age, they need care and support. They have spent countless years caring for others, and now they require help. Many seniors in America lack quality care in modern society, and this needs to change. Individuals without family support and those who lack sufficient financial resources are most vulnerable to being left behind.
Unmet Needs
A senior may not be able to complete the activities of daily living without assistance. When no one is around to help, these tasks often go undone. This program affects millions of older Americans, and changes must be made to ensure quality care for aging adults, regardless of their financial or family status.
People often don’t realize the far-reaching effects of unmet care needs, but they have a significant impact on society as a whole. When seniors lack the help they need to complete essential activities, they are at more risk of accidents. These accidents may lead to long-term disability and the need for increased medical care. Seniors who suffer severe injuries often become dependent on others to carry out necessary tasks. They might end up in the hospital more frequently as they are unable to take their medicines as prescribed, increasing the burden on an already overtaxed healthcare system.
Adverse health outcomes are more common when care needs remain unmet. Chronic conditions often worsen, and disability levels rise. Tasks they once completed easily now become insurmountable challenges. Their quality of life decreases while healthcare systems become overwhelmed.
Unpaid Family Caregivers Aren’t the Answer
Many people believe family members should step in when a senior needs help with daily tasks. Doing so isn’t the answer in many situations. Family dynamics have undergone significant changes over the years. Marriage rates are dropping, divorce rates are up, and families are having fewer children. Many seniors find they can’t turn to family when they need help because loved ones are already stretched too thin. Millions of Americans are widowed and have no children, leaving them at risk of neglect.
Financial Resouces
People often assume those with ample financial resources will be able to receive the care they need. Sadly, this isn’t the case. Less than 25 percent of individuals age 55 and older receive help from a paid professional when they struggle with activities of daily living. This problem isn’t reserved for those with limited financial resources. Anyone may find that they don’t have the care they need.
Looking to the Future
The United States must determine how best to address this growing crisis. Innovative care solutions are needed, and society must value its aging population. Medicaid may need to be expanded to provide more Americans with access to long-term care communities, and additional steps may also be necessary to ensure that all seniors receive the care they need.
When seniors don’t receive the care they need, there may be serious health consequences. They frequently become dependent on others because of these adverse health conditions. People often assume those with financial resources will be able to access this care, but that isn’t the case. Any senior may find themselves without help, and society must be prepared to step in to ensure that seniors are treated with dignity while receiving the support they need. Every person deserves this and more after a lifetime of giving to others. Now it is time for society to pay them back for all they have done.
