A recent study from NORC at the University of Chicago sheds light on a growing group of middle-income older adults who are struggling to access senior living care. According to the research, approximately 6.5 million older adults, representing 12% of the population aged 65 and older, are facing financial insecurity and complex health care needs without adequate resources for long-term care.
These individuals, known as “near-duals,” are just above the threshold for Medicaid eligibility while being eligible for Medicare. This leaves them unable to afford the services they may require as they age. The study emphasizes the necessity for more middle-market senior living options to cater to this at-risk group.
Vice President of Health Care Strategy at NORC, Dianne Munevar, noted the critical gap in the current long-term care funding system and called for data-informed policy changes to address the needs of vulnerable older adults. The study, building on NORC’s previous research, highlighted the limited options available to near-duals without significant policy reforms.
Proposed solutions include developing a new Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) benefit, expanding Medicaid eligibility, increasing funding for home repair programs, and offering direct support to older adults in need. Policy experts emphasize the urgency of providing relief to nearly 7 million older adults facing financial challenges.
The SCAN Foundation’s Vice President of Policy, Narda Ipakchi, stressed the importance of policy changes to ensure access to necessary long-term care for near-duals. NORC will host a webinar on October 25 to further discuss the study findings and potential solutions.
