Improving Dementia Long-Term Care: A Policy Blueprint

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health Policy
• Health Services Research

Background:

• 15% of Americans over 70 had dementia in 2010, with cases expected to double by 2050.
• Aging baby boomers will increase demand for dementia-related long-term services and supports (LTSS).
• Existing LTSS systems face challenges in meeting the specific needs of individuals with dementia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a national blueprint for policy options addressing the intersection of dementia and LTSS.
• To identify and prioritize policy recommendations for improving the dementia LTSS delivery system, workforce, and financing.
• To engage diverse stakeholders in shaping the future of dementia care.

Main Methods:

• Conducted five major tasks including stakeholder engagement, policy review, and option evaluation.
• Identified weaknesses in the LTSS system for dementia patients.
• Evaluated 38 policy options from diverse stakeholders, prioritizing 25 based on impact and feasibility.

Main Results:

• Identified 25 priority policy options for the dementia LTSS system.
• Policy options focus on five key objectives: increasing awareness, improving access, promoting quality care, supporting caregivers, and reducing costs.
• The blueprint provides a foundation for consensus-building among stakeholders.

Conclusions:

• Urgent need for policy reform to address the growing dementia and LTSS crisis.
• Prioritized policy options aim to create a more accessible, equitable, and sustainable dementia care system.
• This national blueprint serves as a critical resource for policymakers and stakeholders.