FILE – Actor Gene Hackman with wife Betsy Arakawa in June 1993. Hackman and Arakawa were found dead … [+]
The passing of Gene Hackman brings attention to the challenges of aging, caregiving, and the gaps in the healthcare system for those in need of higher levels of care. The need for eldercare and support for caregivers is crucial, especially with potential cuts to Medicaid under the Trump administration and Republicans in Congress, which could leave many Americans without the necessary care.
At the age of 95, Hackman’s death was attributed to cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s disease playing a significant role. His wife and caregiver, Betsy Arakawa, also passed away due to a deadly virus contracted from rodents, leaving Hackman alone in his final days.
While individuals like Hackman may have been able to afford additional caregiver assistance, many Americans rely on programs like Medicaid for support. Established in 1965, Medicaid provides health insurance for low-income individuals, with approximately 72 million people currently enrolled. The program covers a significant portion of births and nursing home stays in the country.
Medicaid also offers coverage for non-medical home care services, but the specifics vary by state. For those in need of in-home care, alternatives to Medicaid include private pay, long-term home care insurance, Veterans community care program, and Medicare Advantage plans.
However, proposed budget cuts by House Republicans could impact Medicaid funding, potentially leading to millions of people losing coverage. The shift towards block grants could further strain states’ abilities to support Medicaid enrollees.
The impact of these cuts would extend to caregivers, who play a vital role in providing care for aging or disabled loved ones. The burden on caregivers, both emotionally and financially, would increase as federal funding decreases.
Emma Heming Willis, wife of Bruce Willis, highlighted the importance of supporting caregivers in light of the deaths of Hackman and Arakawa. The lack of adequate support for caregivers, especially those without financial resources, raises concerns about who will provide care if government funding is reduced.
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