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Americans are unprepared for the expensive and complex process of aging – a geriatrician explains how they can start planning
The geriatrician says families should prepare for rising care, housing and legal costs before retirement or a health decline.
- Geriatrician and medical educator Kahli Zietlow urges Americans to proactively plan for aging costs, warning that nearly 70% of older Americans will require long-term care in their lifetime.
- Data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows 46% of adults over age 75 live with at least one physical disability, while assisted living averages $4,800 per month and nursing home beds cost $276 per day.
- Only about 25% of Americans over 50 have completed advance directives, legal documents that outline medical preferences and prevent state-appointed guardians from making critical decisions.
- Recent federal budget cuts threaten support programs, with the 2025 tax breaks bill reducing Medicaid funding over 10 years and Medicare funding facing potential decreases after January 30, 2026.
- Caregivers often face high rates of stress, with support programs offering a 24-hour support line for crises; Zietlow emphasizes individuals must familiarize themselves with available resources to manage aging's universal challenges.
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32 Articles
32 Articles
Americans are unprepared for the expensive and complex process of aging – a geriatrician explains how they can start planning
Addressing the financial and personal aspects of aging proactively helps to ensure that you will receive the care you need – and want – as you age.
·Indiana, United States
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Total News Sources32
Leaning Left1Leaning Right4Center26Last UpdatedBias Distribution84% Center
Bias Distribution
- 84% of the sources are Center
84% Center
C 84%
13%
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