Background – The Perfect Storm
An aging nation
With 45 million American senior citizens and 77 million baby boomers waiting to retire, the graying of America is here to stay. From 2010 to 2030, “boomers” ages 65 and over will jump nearly 85%. In fact, every seven to 10 seconds, another American turns 50. Even more startling is the fact that the “oldest of the old,” those over 85, are the fastest-growing population.
Moreover, America’s aging population brings with it extensive health-care needs as nearly three quarters of older adults have one or more chronic conditions.
The caregivers’ dilemma
Heath care for the majority of America’s aging population—and specifically for about three quarters of those living in towns and regions with a high number of older adults—will not come from a health-care system. Instead, it will be provided by informal caregivers such as friends and family members.
A shrinking professional health-care workforce is one reason this will occur. By 2020, for example, there will be at least 400,000 fewer nurses than needed. To complicate matters, informal caregivers will experience increased physical, emotional, and financial burdens as they find themselves caring not only for their children and grandchildren, but also their parents and grandparents.
Boomers’ high expectations
Baby Boomers are the most independent and smartest generation America has ever produced. And just because they’re aging is no reason to believe the boomers will be willing to give up their hard-earned independence or enlightened lifestyle.
Eighty-nine percent of Baby Boomers want to “age in place,” even though that may occur with a spouse who has a debilitating condition. Eighty-five percent of boomers are tech-savvy and use the Internet daily. In fact, 92% of them anticipate that technology will help them live longer, better, and more independently. Yet typically they are unaware of what that technology might be or how it will help them.
The health-care challenge
The challenges to America’s health-care system are easier to define than to remedy. The country faces with the tripling of the number of older adults. About three-quarters of them will have one or more chronic conditions or illnesses.
A shrinking professional caregiver workforce cannot offer sufficient help. Meanwhile, the aging American population wants to remain independent while aging in their current residence. Adding to the challenge is the cost involved in providing the level of quality health care the aging population not only is used to but expects.
The good news is that Diakon Smart Homes offer solutions to at least some of these challenges—and at a price that may surprise you.