Long-Term Care: A Case Study

Long-term care services are sought out when an individual requires aid with their daily living activities, medical or non-medical, due to a chronic illness or disability. In the 19th century, it was common for long-term care to be given by family members and friends most often based on a need of feeling it was their duty even when it created privations for the family. After the Great Depression the Social Security Act of 1935, in addition to welfare programs, we began to see a positive impact helping those who could not care for themselves. By the 1960’s the federal government provided additional funding to address the needs of these individuals; however, they did not fully take into account how the influx of consumers into the system would
Due to this diverse group of consumers this requires an emphasis be placed on innovative approaches in how we as health care providers address the needs of these individuals (Pratt, 2016). A significant change in the demographics is the increase in seniors due to the baby boomers. Due to the advancements in health care today, these baby boomers will live longer past retirement, which could further tax the long-term care systems if their health declines as they age. Additionally, this can further strain Medicaid and
Innovative brands of care facilities are being established to meet the needs of a diverse group of consumers in order to stay competitive in the market and appeal to a wider range of consumers. Moreover, in some instances giving family members an outlet through the use of an adult day care programs so that they can maintain employment. Many of the long-term care programs are incorporating innovative ways to keep family members involved in activities with their loved ones to build on and stay connected. Lastly, incorporating integrated health systems is a growing trend within the long-term care system that would provide the consumer with continuity of care. Although there are obvious inherent weaknesses the long-term care system has vastly improved by learning from and improving on their weaknesses. Unfortunately, greed has taken over as it often does in health care when services are not utilized strictly due to lack of reimbursement. Again, another scenario where a consumer may not be offered or receive a service due to the payer unless the consumer can pay out of pocket, which creates the potential for gaps in service. Another growing concern is an individual may qualify for a service; however, the service may not be available to them. This is one of