Changing Elder Care in America
Covid-19 has revealed deep problems with our current care of elders. With institutions in place that mirror hospitals more than homes—with low-wage staffs and large-scale capacity—the model of care for our aging population invites reimagining and innovation. This is particularly true given that in the last decade, our over-65 population has grown by a third to 54 million.
This shift can be a clarion call to action. When Dene Peterson reached her later years, she rejected the “big box” nursing home model. In 2006 she founded the Elderspirit Community in her home of Abingdom, VA. Based on the “Green House” movement of geriatrician Dr. Bill Thomas, the housing design features clusters of small buildings with private rooms—less institutional, smaller scale, and better staffed.
Other trends show promise. Many states have adopted policies that provide Medicaid waivers for in-home care. A federally funded initiative, Community Care Corps provides funding for innovative efforts to help older adults maintain independence. And nationwide, PACE offers a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly that keeps people active and supported in their health and wellbeing.
We can also look to ideas working around the globe. In the Netherlands, policies encourage college-age students to share housing with older residents in exchange for being a good neighbor.
As we move forward, some truths are evident. Our seniors need housing that is age-friendly and affordable. But they also need to be in a place that they can maintain meaningful social connection. This is often achieved by being integrated into a community of all ages.
Caring for ourselves and our aging loved ones offers an opportunity to align our values with existing policies and programs. We all hope for a feeling of home and belonging. We all live better with independence and choice. As Dr. Thomas says, we just need to reimagine “what home looks like.”
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