With better health care options and increased awareness about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, Americans are living longer, fuller lives than ever before.  But as life expectancy increases, more seniors are reaching the point where they need help with daily activities or require more extensive care. Studies show that more than 60% of seniors over 65 will need some type of long-term care. This year, that number is expected to be more than nine million Americans.  By 2020, it could exceed 12 million. (US Department of Health and Human Services.)

What kind of care you'll need and how long you'll need it can be difficult to predict.  On average, someone age 65 today will need some long-term care services for three years.  Many times, long-term care begins in the home with family or friends aiding in everyday activities. But as you age or if you become ill, your need for care can increase beyond your family's ability to provide it on their own.

This section addresses the risks and pressures associated with the need for long-term care.  It also addresses how social and economic changes are likely to impact long-term care need and providers in the future. 

 

 

The size of the disabled population will grow by more than 50 percent between 2000 and 2040 and the number of disabled older adults for every adult age 25 to 64 will increase. Changes in Health Care Financing & Organization (HCFO), July 2007