Webinar explores gaps in long-term care preparedness among older Michiganders

On Thursday, May 15, aging experts gathered for a webinar hosted by the U-M Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation and Michigan Health Endowment Fund to discuss a new report from the Michigan Poll on Healthy Aging. The report revealed significant gaps in long-term care planning and preparedness among older adults in Michigan and across the country.

The event, attended by leaders from aging organizations, health care professionals, and members of the public, spotlighted findings that underscore the need for increased awareness, education, and resources to support aging populations in preparing for long-term care needs. Speakers included:

• Neel Hajra, J.D., CEO of the Michigan Health Endowment Fund
• John Ayanian, M.D., M.P.P., Director of the U-M Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation
• Jeff Kullgren, M.D., M.P.H., M.S., Director of the U-M National Poll on Healthy Aging
• Ana Montoya, M.D., M.P.H., Associate Professor of Geriatric and Palliative Medicine at the U-M Medical School
• Scott Wamsley, M.P.A., Director of the Bureau of Aging, Community Living, and Supports at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
   

Drs. Kullgren and Montoya discussed the poll results, which captured older Michiganders’ experiences, knowledge, and attitudes about long-term care. The data showed that many older adults underestimate their potential need for care and lack a clear understanding of how to plan for it. These findings reflect national trends and point to a disconnect between expectations and reality when it comes to aging and care.

The discussion also explored the broader implications for families, communities, and public policy. Dr. Montoya emphasized the importance of early and proactive conversations around aging, while Scott Wamsley highlighted forthcoming state resources designed to help families better navigate the long-term care system.

Neel Hajra spoke about the Michigan Health Endowment Fund’s efforts to support programs that assist older adults and caregivers throughout the state. 

The event concluded with a Q&A session, where speakers answered pressing questions from attendees about long-term care planning, costs, and aging resources in Michigan and beyond.

As the population ages, this conversation and the report’s findings highlight the importance of strengthening long-term care education and infrastructure. 

Watch the webinar recording here

The Michigan report can be found at https://www.healthyagingpoll.org/reports-more/report/older-michiganders-need-more-help-planning-long-term-care-needs-poll-shows and the national report on this topic can be found at Long-Term Care: Are Older Adults Ready? | National Poll on Healthy Aging.

For more information on services and supports for older adults in Michigan visit https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-...

For more about the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, visit https://mihealthfund.org/