Amplify: Harris Announces Plan for “Medicare at Home”
Continuing to devote herself to American families, Kamala Harris has announced her plan to expand Medicare to include home care for seniors. Currently, more than 14 million Americans require long-term support services – a number that is projected to grow to 24 million by 2030.
Subject to very narrow exceptions, Medicare does not cover long-term care, like home health aides. As a result, both the elderly and their families have been bearing the tremendous burden of an aging population. Today, 105 million Americans are acting as caregivers for elderly loved ones – which has been particularly difficult for the nearly 25% of U.S. adults -- who simultaneously care for both a child and an elderly parent.
Under Harris’ plan, Medicare will, for the very first time, be expanded to provide home care coverage for seniors and those with disabilities, and also to include vision and hearing benefits.
Highlights:
Relieve the Financial Burden on Families:
The Department of Health and Human Services estimates that an average American turning 65 will incur $120,900 in long-term services and support costs.
If needed, a 24/7 live-in health aide can cost more than $288,000 a year.
Of those who act as a caregiver or contribute to their own or another’s long-term care, 56% report having to cut back on food, clothing or other basic household items. Almost 39% have used up all or most of their savings.
Generate Benefits for Families and the Healthcare System: The Harris plan will save both families and the federal government money by allowing seniors to stay in their homes instead of relying on expensive nursing home or hospital care. Current family caregivers will also be freed up to keep their jobs.
Provide Hearing and Vision Coverage: - Nearly 90% of senior Medicare enrollees wear eyeglasses and nearly half have hearing issues. Extending Medicare to cover these costs will help seniors be more active and independent, improve lives, and reduce family burdens and costs.
Read More: FACT SHEET: A Historic Medicare at Home Plan to Support the Sandwich Generation; Harris aims to help adult caregivers with Medicare benefit expansion
