Abstract:

Secondary statistical data suggest that approximately 80%-85% of people age 65+ in the United States have at least one chronic illness, & nearly 50+ report that this limits their activity to some degree. Altogether, about 33% of this population may need some kind of medical or social assistance. Evaluated here are the three primary modes of care available to older persons: (1) the informal network of the family, (2) the more formal arrangements of home & community care, & (3) the institutionalized care of nursing homes. Several key policy issues are identified, including: Who provides, receives, & pays for the care? What type of care is available? How much does each type of care cost? Current patterns & costs, particularly of long-term care, provide a framework for planning future options.