Report raises questions about how Michigan serves its elders

By the year 2030, nearly 20 percent of Michigan residents will be over age 65. That's leading the AARP of Michigan to question how the state serves its elders.

A new report from the AARP said a vast majority of seniors wish to stay in their homes as they age, instead of moving into a nursing home.

Lisa Dedden Cooper said that option is not only preferable, but it's also affordable...

"You can serve three people in home and community based services for every one you serve in a nursing home."

However, the report said right now, Michigan spends nearly 80 percent of its long-term care dollars on nursing home care.

Cooper said that's because sometimes, seniors are convinced that they have no choice but to go to a nursing home...

"The law is such that you are supposed to be able to receive your services in the least restrictive setting."

Cooper said Michigan qualifies for federal dollars to provide home health care, but so far, the state has not applied for any funding under two available programs.

Meanwhile, Cooper said thousands of Michigan elders are on waiting lists for the in-home care they prefer.