Caring for Ageing Baby Boomers

Caring for Ageing Baby Boomers

There are a number of things that have surprised me about this report. The report avers that the economic burden associated with caring for the aging baby boomers by 2030 would not exceed the cost of raising them back in the 1960s (Knickman & Snell, 2002). I find this interesting because the cost of living has kept increasing over the years. The economy of the United States has also had to grapple with myriad gloom economic conditions over the years that finally culminated into the year 2008 economic slow down. The financial markets have severely been hit with attendant inflationary risks. I therefore find it over optimistic to say that economic burden of raising baby boomers back in the sixties would not outweigh attendant costs of caring for this aging population in 2030. It is surprising that the report indicates that the real challenge of caring for frail baby boomers would be making sure that the society develops payments and insurance systems for long-term care better than the ones currently in place (Knickman & Snell, 2002). I find this observation outrageous bearing in mind that a comprehensive health care program was rolled back way back in 2010. The Obama Care when completely rolled out will be responsive to issues that this report raises (GPO, 2013). Finally, report finding that advocated for taking advantage of advances in medicine and behavioral health to keep the elderly healthy and active is sport on. The U.S. is renowned for technologically innovations that have further advanced delivery of health care services. I don't understand why the aged should succumb to non-communicable diseases like cancer. The government devotes a lot of resources to Research and Development and this should go a long way in mitigating these NCDs.

Review of this article has made me appreciate that there are real challenges that have to be addressed with regards to meeting the long-term care needs of Baby Boomers. To start with, finances have to be availed for the institution of long-term care that is responsive to challenges that the frail Baby Boomers contend with. A viable and affordable community-based delivery system must be built. To achieve lower disability rates, stakeholders should make an undertaking to invest in healthy aging. Finally, the concept of family and the value of seniors in American culture have to be recharged (Knickman & Snell, 2002). The review of this report has made me know the current sources of financing for the long-term care services of the elderly. I have realized that Medicare's coverage only focuses on home care related to medical problems like broken hips and is essentially restricted to people receiving rehabilitation. It doesn't cater for long-term care (Knickman & Snell, 2002). The report has made me appreciate the role federal Medicaid program plays in long-term care financing of the frail and the poor. I have also learnt through this report that out-of-pocket finances largely cater for the care of the elderly (Knickman & Snell, 2002). I have also learnt that Washington is not keen at reforming the financing system because many elders will be adamant to use their savings to cater for their healthcare needs.