According to the 2020 Census, the percentage of those 65 and older in Oregon was 16.8%. In
Multnomah County, that percentage was 12.9%. That amounts to about 105,023 people.
Further research shows this number has grown and predicts this number will only continue to
grow.

With the ever-growing senior population, it is understandable for
many to start thinking about long-term care. One of the options that
may come to mind is Assisted Living Facilities.

Assisted Living Facilities, in theory, sound like a reasonable option.
They allow independence for the individual while also helping with
certain everyday activities. However, facilities have been experiencing a
big problem. This problem is a lack of staff, which unfortunately leaves a
lack of care for the individuals needing assistance.

There are many reasons for this lack of staff. Some of these
include burnout, low pay, unsatisfactory working conditions, and more
training/certification requirements. The pandemic took a toll on
workers and facilities as well. Those factors led to multiple problems
arising in the assisted living facilities. One can only assume that in
today’s political climate, these facilities are experiencing even more dire
strains.

According to a qualityinfo.org (website focusing on Oregon
employment) article, it is explained that lack of workers has affected the
way the facilities run. Many facilities have had to limit the amount of
people they admit. Some facilities have had to close altogether due to
staff shortages. An Oregonian article explains that these staff shortages
also extend to workers who inspect the facilities and investigate
complaints.

Although this information may seem grim, there are other options
and alternatives. (Note: some of these programs may be eligible for
Medicare or Medicaid) Some options include at-home care. Programs
like these can help with medical care from the comfort of your own
home. If certain care is unavailable at home, they may be able to
connect you to providers close to you. Another option is family
caregivers. This option offers the opportunity for family members to
become caretakers and potentially be paid by Medicaid. Handbooks and
support are often offered to caregivers to help with stress, give helpful
information, and much more. Long-term care insurance is an option as
well. This option is encouraged to be done earlier and requires a
monthly premium. Unfortunately, this option is not usually covered by
Medicare or health insurance and, therefore, would be an out-of-pocket
expense.

Our very own UpRiver Village is an option as well. (UpRiver Village is a
part of Villages NW.) The UpRiver Village program helps people
continue to age in the comfort of their own homes. This is done thanks
to the help of neighbors who are volunteers. Also, something to note is
that yearly costs for this program are a fraction of the cost compared to
monthly charges for Assisted Living Facilities.

Ultimately, figuring out long-term care for the aging population may
seem confusing and scary at times. Many may think Assisted Living
Facilities are their only option. Thankfully, that is not the case. There are
many options out there that can help the senior population live the
lives they want.

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