The lack of vision in regard to health care for the aging population of this state and country is disturbing.

America’s 76 million baby boomers comprise 20 percent of the adult population. The members of that generation face a catastrophic shortage of health care services as well as the insurance coverage to pay for them. As the first boomers approach retirement, our health care system is already over-burdened and federal and state lawmakers are concluding that they are not prepared.

Health care reform has been an ongoing topic of discussion and debate for as long as boomers have been alive. As old age, declining health, hospitalization and nursing home placement become realities for them, reform has not.

For boomers, the prospect of getting on the health care merry-go-round is daunting. The mountains of paperwork are intimidating to sick and exhausted seniors. My association with an Alzheimer’s support group has exposed me to the trials of families that are taking care of someone at home with little or no community resources. The caregiver(s) become ill, requiring medical care. Often, both of the family members become candidates for nursing home placement.

My years of experience as a nursing home bookkeeper have opened my eyes to the demand for quality health care for seniors, the frustration of those seeking it, and the lack of beds necessary to accommodate those requiring care. The lack of adequate funding by federal and state agencies is forcing facilities to scale back, or close their doors. The money needed to pay staff and pay for utilities, food, supplies and insurance increases annually, while the rate the state pays for Medicaid recipients has not increased since 1998.

Preparation is key. Vision is required.

Mitzi Paul

Millinocket