Policy Issues Affecting the Health of Older Individuals in the United States

Abstract

The aging population is growing, in the United States and the rest of the world. Developed nations are now facing challenges with providing for this increasing unit of population. Aged adults account for a significant part of individuals utilizing health care services in these countries. As a result of this growth, long-term policies in the healthcare of the elderly need to be reviewed. This manuscript offers insight into the policies and the several elements that affect the provision of healthcare to the aging populace. Some of the issues addressed include medical care needs versus supply, alternatives to institutionalization, alternative delivery systems, financing long-term care services, the role of informal support systems, housing, and income maintenance. The demand for use of long-term care services is also significantly growing. Socioeconomic status and health behaviors throughout life affect the need for these services. However, financing and access to these services have become a concern for governments, and papers like this offer relevant data which can be used to reform and make informed policies.