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Health care expenditures for the elderly: a current and future dilemma
1School of Management, State University of New York, Buffalo 14260.
Socio-Economic Planning Sciences
|December 10, 1989
Summary
Healthcare financing for the elderly is a growing concern. This paper explores self-financing options for seniors, considering potential shifts from Medicare and political pressures from younger demographics.
Area of Science:
- Health Economics
- Gerontology
- Public Policy
Background:
- The elderly population (65+ years) represents 12% of the population.
- This demographic accounts for approximately 30% of total healthcare expenditures.
- Rising healthcare costs for seniors necessitate innovative financing solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the critical issue of healthcare financing for the elderly.
- To explore the feasibility of self-financing healthcare for affluent seniors.
- To analyze potential alternative healthcare financing models beyond traditional Medicare.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of current healthcare expenditure trends among the elderly.
- Examination of the increasing affluence within the senior population.
- Consideration of political dynamics, including potential pressure from younger generations.
Main Results:
- The elderly are becoming more affluent, suggesting a potential for increased self-financing.
- Existing healthcare financing models, such as Medicare, may require alternative or supplementary approaches.
- Political considerations from younger demographics are a relevant factor in policy development.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare financing for the elderly requires a multi-faceted approach.
- Exploring self-financing options and alternative models is crucial.
- Policy decisions must account for demographic shifts and intergenerational equity.