Skip to content

Industry News

Print

NIRS Examines Medicaid’s Critical Role in Providing Long-Term Care Coverage for Older Americans

On October 14, 2020, the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) released its report, Accessing Long-Term Care Coverage Through Medicaid: The Safety Net for Seniors Facing Unmanageable Costs. The report focuses on the long-term care coverage of older Americans and their options for accessing care.  In addition, it reviews Washington State’s long-term care social insurance program that is projected to reduce Medicaid expenses.

The rules governing access to long-term care coverage through Medicaid are complex and vary extensively from state-to-state.  Multiple approaches are likely needed to maximize the possibility of providing long-term care for all in need paired with a rational financing strategy. The report proposes policy solutions intended to address the volatile and potentially catastrophic costs of long-term care, including:

  • Various proposals for long-term care should provide universal coverage based on need;
  • A stronger focus on healthy aging for all should require the integration of health care and social services as well as accountable care systems for long-term health; and
  • Public policy should support the ability of older adults to live independently and remain in their communities facilitated by the expansion of aging-friendly communities, strong transportation infrastructure, affordable and accessible housing, community nutrition programs, and quality public institutions (i.e., libraries).

The report is available here.