Implications of Medicaid Cuts for Americans Over 65: Insights from Aging Experts

Recent proposals in Congress aim to significantly reduce federal healthcare spending, with a primary focus on Medicaid, a vital program serving over 82 million Americans, many of whom are low-income, disabled, or both. Medicaid is a joint federal and state program and the largest funder of long-term care services in the U.S., crucial for older adults and individuals with disabilities, offering care options in homes, community settings, or nursing facilities.

The push to cut Medicaid spending raises serious concerns about health and financial impacts on vulnerable populations. Although efforts have historically aimed to curb costs through measures like work requirements and fraud reduction, these strategies have largely fallen short of producing substantial savings and often negatively affect care for the disabled and elderly. Recent legislative plans propose limiting federal reimbursements to states, which could lead to millions losing their health coverage—estimates suggest up to 8.6 million Americans could be affected.

Losing Medicaid coverage can have dire health consequences. A comprehensive study following individuals who lost Medicaid at age 65 revealed increased chronic conditions, reduced ability to perform daily activities, and higher rates of depression and poor health. These health declines also led to increased hospitalizations and outpatient surgeries, which are some of the most costly healthcare services. Without Medicaid, many older adults face increased out-of-pocket expenses, difficulty accessing routine care, and higher reliance on expensive hospital services.

Furthermore, data indicates that seniors who lose Medicaid are at a greater risk of premature death, with a 14% higher mortality rate over ten years compared to those who maintain coverage. This stark statistic underscores the life-or-death stakes involved. Many enrolled in Medicare rely on supplemental coverage, including Medicaid, to afford uncovered services. When Medicaid is lost, some face insurmountable costs, leading to health deterioration and increased healthcare burdens.

The potential Medicaid reductions threaten to undermine years of progress in aging and health equity. They could exacerbate health disparities, foster unnecessary suffering, and escalate long-term healthcare costs for families and the government. Protecting Medicaid is essential to ensuring basic health access and promoting healthy aging for millions of older adults.

Source: medicalxpress.com