Author (Your Name)

Sarah Lim, Colby College

Date of Award

2006

Document Type

Honors Thesis (Colby Access Only)

Department

Colby College. Sociology Dept.

Advisor(s)

(unknown)

Abstract

In this paper I examine the structure of the current assisted living industry in order to explain how and why it is appealing and effective, as well as look at its limitations. I discuss the politics of Medicaid and Medicare, and how through these programs the federal and state governments are failing to provide adequate care for the nation’s senior population. Like the rest of our health care system, these two public health insurance systems are fragmented, and consequently, financing long-term care is complicated and insufficient. Ultimately, this paper will function as a policy report and I will propose: standardized requirements for assisted living facilities; a stricter and new way to regulate assisted living on the state level; restructured models for the public insurance programs, including Medicaid, Medicare, and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program.

Keywords

Medicaid, Medicare, assisted living

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