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As life expectancies increase in the United States, so does the aging population. Currently, 18% of the population is over 65 and that number is expected to increase steadily and reach 23% by 2054. With this increase, the need for social services for seniors will rise to ensure that seniors are cared for and can thrive throughout their older years.
As people get older, their needs change and challenges arise. Seniors have more healthcare needs than other age groups, but they are often on fixed incomes and unable to meet the financial burden of those needs. Additionally, as they get older, they may be unable to care for themselves in some ways, requiring help with daily tasks, transportation, and preparing healthy meals. Meeting these needs is also challenging when living on a fixed income.
Many seniors rely on family support, but for some, this is not an option. For others, family support may be limited as their needs increase to a level that family members are not equipped to handle.
All of these challenges can significantly diminish the quality of life for our seniors, who deserve to be taken care of and live out their years in a fulfilling, comfortable way.
Fortunately, there are social services for seniors provided by the government at various levels, and at the community level.
Fortunately, Medicare is available to seniors, but it has limitations and seniors are still often required to pay deductibles and copays. The Medicare system is also difficult to navigate, but seniors can access their State Health Insurance Assistance Program to deal with those complexities.
Some local agencies also have programs to help seniors with their health care needs. At a community level, there are providers, such as Health Service Alliance (HSA), that can meet the healthcare needs of seniors regardless of their ability to pay. HSA also provides resources and referrals for seniors to meet other challenges beyond health care.
Many seniors struggle with feelings of isolation, which can lead to depression symptoms. They also may have lifelong mental health disorders that need continuing treatment. Medicare may not cover all the mental health treatment costs that seniors may incur.
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) exist that offer treatment on a sliding pay scale based on income, and some local non-profits can provide referrals to mental health care providers who offer pro bono services.
Other local providers, such as HSA, offer mental health services or referrals regardless of ability to pay.
Many seniors struggle to make ends meet with Social Security benefits alone, but they also may be able to qualify for Supplemental Security Income. Other programs exist to help pay for specific expenses, such as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
To locate other financial services available, the Administration for Community Living offers an Eldercare Locator tool that seniors can search to find services available in their local area.
When seniors are unable to drive, or cannot afford a vehicle, transportation to things like medical appointments can be a challenge. Many local public transportation services offer transportation options for seniors and disabled people. Non-profit agencies and some senior centers also provide affordable or free transportation options.
Sometimes even buying food is challenging for seniors on a fixed income. There is a federal program called the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) that provides a monthly food box to seniors, and many states offer food assistance programs as well. The SNAP program, formerly known as food stamps, is also available to seniors.
For seniors who have trouble getting to the store or preparing meals, programs like Meals on Wheels can assist. Local food banks are also a resource, sometimes offering special hours specifically for seniors.
Sometimes seniors need legal assistance with estate planning, or with the qualifying processes of Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income. The Legal Aid Society offers assistance with such matters, and many law firms offer pro bono work for seniors. LawHelp.org is a resource to find legal services in specific locations.
For seniors who need help with daily tasks, Medicaid will cover some home care services, but Medicare typically does not. Local area Agencies on Aging can provide resources for in home care, and other state and local programs also may be available, as well as non-profit organizations.
However, gaps still exist for seniors in getting home care or long-term care in a facility. Some people have an income that is too high to qualify for Medicaid or other low-income programs, but still can’t afford in home care or long-term care.
Many federal, state, and local programs assist seniors with affordable housing options, including Section 8 vouchers. Non-profit community-based housing assistance programs may also be available in some areas. The HUD resource locator allows seniors to search for HUD programs in their area.
Often, seniors feel isolated and have little interaction with others. Senior centers, sometimes funded by federal and state programs, are a place where seniors can go to engage and participate in activities. Often, these centers also provide assistance with accessing other senior support programs and services.
While many social services are available for older Americans, provided by both government agencies and community-based organizations, as the population ages, these services may be stretched thin. Gaps in services that seniors need also exist, particularly in the areas of home care and long-term care options.
It’s important for community members to support senior programs, both financially and by volunteering, to ensure that older community members have a good quality of life throughout their golden years.
You can reach out to Health Service Alliance for information on senior resources or to find out how you can help.
