I have learned much while serving on these Committees about the many dimensions of long-term care. One thing I have learned is the importance of federal standards for our nursing homes. I was a strong supporter of the federal nursing home standards enacted back in 1987 and remain a supporter of these federal standards today. While most facilities deliver compassionate and professional health care to residents, a system of well-defined standards with annual review is vital if we are to ensure the maintenance of quality. The enforcement of these standards, with penalties as necessary, is key if these standards are to be taken seriously.
Seniors deserve nothing less.
By 2030, there will be approximately 70 million older persons, more than twice our population today. The need for long-term care will grow right along with the population and it is not an option for us to hide our head in the sand on this topic. It is time we discuss our current long-term care system, both its strengths and its weaknesses, and hear from users, providers, advocates and state and federal officials about what needs to be considered for the future. The face of long-term care is changing. Today, long-term care is no longer just care provided in nursing homes.