Fortunately, Rhode Island has a window of opportunity over the next few years to lay the foundation for a coordinated service system that will meet its citizens burgeoning need for quality and affordable long term care services as we enter the next century. In 1994, the Long Term Care Coordinating Council under the Chairmanship of then Lt. Governor, Bob Weygand, published the state's first Long Term Care Plan. This comprehensive document set forth a broad vision for long term care in Rhode Island. In reviewing the Plan and more recent data, I have identified a number of areas that I plan to address as Chairman of the Council. Recognize and support family caregivers.
Most impaired elders prefer to remain at home.
About 80 percent of impaired elders avoid institutionalization due to the personal care and financial support of family and friends. Caregiving, however, can be stressful for families. Increasingly, families are caught in the sandwich generation juggling care for children and elder relatives. The average woman can now expect to spend as many or more years caring for elder relatives than she does caring for her children. Integrate acute and long term care and social support services for those who are chronically ill.