POSITION STATEMENT 

AGING POPULATION

The Kentucky Health Departments Association believes the health needs of the aging population will greatly increase across Kentucky over the next twenty years as the number of aging citizens continues to rise.

Basic health services currently available for the aging population are not specific to their needs. These services vary from a multitude of single programs to comprehensive programs in different areas of the Commonwealth. This results in a system more fragmented and difficult to access.

The basic health needs of the aging population are affected by such factors as: inadequate health insurance; the inability to pay for prescription drugs; the complex network of insurance forms, need for prior authorizations and approvals; lack of transportation; and inadequate access to health services.

The Kentucky Health Departments Association recognizes the importance of providing essential health services vital to the aging population.

The Kentucky Health Departments Association strongly supports state funding for a geriatric case management system.

The Kentucky Health Departments Association strongly supports programs designed to promote long-term care, comprehensive health care insurance, and to provide for the aging population to live in the least restrictive environment.

The Kentucky Health Departments Association strongly supports long-term care programs that allow funding to follow the individual instead of the institution.

The Kentucky Health Departments Association believes involvement of those currently providing aging services as well as additional programs in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services are necessary to support a healthier aging population thereby resulting in a healthier Kentucky.

Approved by membership November 17, 2004.