Focusing on South Carolina
April 2009
Focus: Long-Term Care and South Carolina’s Aging Population
SC Statistics:
- SC’s older adult population (those 60 and older) is expected to reach 1.35 million by 2025—a 108% increase since 2000.
- In 2000, South Carolina ranked 32nd in the nation for the highest percentage of people aged 65 and older. By 2030, the state is projected to rank 15th in the nation.
- From 1994 to 2008 there was a 32% increase in the need for nursing home care in our state. It is projected that by 2018 that statistic will double.
Why is this a public health priority?
The needs of SC’s aging population affect individuals, families, communities, and the state. In addition to the emotional and financial challenges to individuals and families, the rapid increase in the need for long-term care services will increasingly affect the state budget. The Lt. Governor’s Office on Aging reports that Medicaid expenditures for nursing facility services have increased 307% from 1981 to 2002. As Medicaid is the primary payer for over 70% of SC’s nursing home residents, the growing aging population and its future impact on the state budget is of great concern.
What is the role of SCPHI in addressing this priority?
The South Carolina Public Health Institute has joined with the South Carolina Chapter of AARP and the Lt. Governor’s Office on Aging to sponsor a long-term care forum featuring Ms. Enid Kassner of the national AARP Public Policy Institute. On April 30, 2009 elected officials, policy makers, advocates, and key stakeholders will join together to explore the current status of long-term care in SC and the impact of the growing older adult population. The forum will help set the stage for needed strategic planning and collaboration aimed at developing workable solutions for the future of long-term care in South Carolina.
Who are SCPHI’s key partners in this effort?
AARP – SC Chapter
Lt. Governor’s Office on Aging
