A recently completed comprehensive assessment of Connecticut's long-term care needs by the Center on Aging at the UConn Health Center says the total demand for long-term services among those 40 and older will climb from 188,031 people in 2006 to 240,238 by 2030.
"Whether we require care ourselves or provide it for a loved one or friend, virtually all of us are likely to be touched by the need for long-term care at some point in our lives," said Governor Rell. "The new Web site aims to help improve the lives of people needing long-term care now and to help those who will need it in the future -- meaning most of us -- plan ahead."
The governor said the state recognized a growing need to provide easier access to comprehensive information on long-term care because most people erroneously believe it refers exclusively to institutional care, particularly for older adults.
"In reality, hundreds of thousands of residents of all ages require long-term care because it encompasses the array of services and supports needed for extended periods by people with physical or mental disabilities or those who are chronically ill," Governor Rell said. "They may need or desire care in a variety of settings including their own home, an adult day care center, nursing home or assisted living facility."
Thousands of people have visited the Web site since the governor officially announced its availability in July.
Connecticut's 2007 Long-Term Care Plan defines long-term care as services needed to help people with basic functions such as eating, dressing or bathing or tasks necessary for independent community living such as shopping, managing finances or house cleaning. The needs are met at home, in the community, in congregate residences or in institutions.
According to government estimates, the number of Americans needing long-term care could soar from 15 million in 2000 to 27 million by 2050.
Nearly 7,000 residents responded to the survey portion of the UConn assessment. Respondents said that independence, choice and control are key long-term care needs when using any type of long-term care services.
Nearly 80 percent of survey respondents said they wish to remain in their own homes, using health or homemaker services to meet long-term care needs. Almost as many recognize that home modifications, such as a wheelchair ramp or modified first-floor bathroom, would let them stay at home and age there.
The long-term care Web site can help residents find the services and supports they need to fill these and many other needs.
In addition to serving consumers who need long-term care, the Web site is a one-stop information source for the growing number of family and friend "informal" caregivers and for professional providers of long-term care services.
The General Assembly directed the state Office of Policy and Management to develop the site in consultation with representatives from the Connecticut Commission on Aging, Office of Policy and Management, Long-Term Care Advisory Council and Infoline.
"We're very pleased that this successful and very timely collaboration between the Executive and Legislative branches of government resulted in such a useful tool to serve our present and future generations," Governor Rell said.
