Even though every state has a Medicaid HCBS program, the majority of older adults aren’t eligible for those services. They make too much to qualify for the public program, but not enough to afford it on their own.
This text highly emphasis the coverage gap many Americans face. They make just enough but are still ineligible for Medicaid services, many patients' or family caregivers are then forced to pay out of pocket for services which can be a financial burden in some families.
Black and Hispanic older adults who need LTSS are one-and-half times more likely to be without corresponding care support than older white adults, yet are less likely to receive paid help, instead relying heavily on family and friends
This is a disparity prominent in all aspects of healthcare. My capstone project focuses on disparities between women of high and low income and this correlates with the same theme, that based on patients' SDOH are largely influenced with the quality of care they receive. I feel like this is an injustice that the country/government needs to work on.
These caregivers are taking on more complex and intensive responsibilities, facing emotional strain, financial stress, and social isolation
I have personally experienced how family caregivers can also experience burnout. Family members are at a greater risk of experiencing burnout while handling loved ones emotional, financial and health. This is often done without the guidance of professionals, which can also create more stress which can negatively affect both patient and caregiver quality of care.