There are around 62 million people aged 65+ in the US, and those numbers are growing. Experts say that by 2054, 23% of the population will be 65+. As people age, their healthcare needs often become more complex. Finding high-quality, affordable healthcare can be challenging for many elderly individuals.
One of the experienced nursing home abuse lawyers in Kentucky, Brian Vines, shares what can be done to help seniors access their required care.
Choose the Right Healthcare Provider For Your Elderly Needs
One of the most important steps is selecting the right doctor. Many seniors continue to see the same primary care physician they have had for years. However, as health declines, finding a doctor specializing in geriatrics may be wise. These professionals have advanced training in the unique healthcare needs of the elderly.
When looking for a new provider, get recommendations from friends and family. Do research online and look at ratings on sites like Medicare.gov. Schedule meet-and-greet appointments to get a feel for different doctors before deciding on one.
Use Community Resources to Help Elderly People Manage Their Health
Many community resources are available to help seniors manage their health. Area Agencies on Aging offer a variety of services in the US, including care coordination, transportation assistance, and meal delivery. These agencies can also connect seniors with programs and benefits they may be eligible for.
Senior centers also provide health screenings, exercise classes, and social activities. Volunteering at a senior center is a great way for healthy older adults to stay active while assisting their peers.
Advocate for Better Care for Elderly People
As a caregiver or loved one, you may need to advocate for better care for an elderly individual. That can involve speaking up about any concerns you have regarding their treatment or asking questions of healthcare providers.
Maintaining detailed medical records and bringing a list of medications to appointments can help ensure quality care. If problems persist, issues can be reported to a hospital patient advocate or regulatory organizations.
Consider Nursing Home Living Arrangements
Sometimes, health deteriorates to the point where alternative living arrangements are necessary. A senior living community may provide access to daily assistance and on-site medical care. In the US, there are around 30,600 assisted living communities. These nursing home facilities help seniors retain independence while getting healthcare support.
Still, note that Medicare does not cover assisted living, so look at long-term insurance coverage. Do careful research to choose a reputable community that offers the right services. Also, look into options like in-home healthcare workers.
Preventing Nursing Home Abuse
A US Congress report found that 10% of seniors suffered some kind of abuse. Elder abuse is mistreatment toward an older person; it can include physical, sexual, or emotional violence, financial exploitation, or healthcare fraud. Older individuals living in nursing homes or assisted living facilities are at a higher risk.
Leading nursing home abuse attorneys say there are common warning signs for caregivers and loved ones to watch for, like unexplained bruising, sudden changes in finances, or fear of certain people. If witnessing or experiencing abuse, report it to police or other authorities. Better oversight and staff training can help reduce abuse incidents in care facilities.
Finding adequate healthcare can be difficult for aging individuals, from at-home care to specialized facilities. However, being proactive and using all available resources provides the best chance of accessing quality, affordable care. That allows seniors to maintain health and independence as long as possible.
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