It can be done immediately. Combine several Aging Initiative grant programs for aging services into one resource development grant process, so that communities can tailor a package of service funding to meet their unique long-term care needs, and fill in the services continuum in their area. Encourage SAIL projects, Area Agencies on Aging and faith communities to develop Parish Nurse programs in additional communities. Increase funding for a number of community services in order to fill in continuum of services in all parts of the state, in order to serve expected increases in clients due to nursing facility reduction. Examples include transportation, adult day care, respite, etc.
Cost is relatively modest.
Very politically feasible strong support for these kinds of programs. Can be done immediately. Develop community technical assistance teams made up of state agency staff to help communities develop the physical, social and service infrastructures needed to achieve age-sensitive communities. These strategies affect very large numbers of people. They prevent and postpone the need for formal long-term care.