#DearCandidate: Pete Buttigieg Brings Long-Term Care Plan to the National Stage

Posted on November 26, 2019 by Jodi Boyne

One of the greatest challenges facing our field, our state and our country just hit the national stage. Presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg this week introduced his Dignity and Security in Retirement proposal to ensure every American has access to affordable health care. 

The plan reflects some of the financing reforms that have been discussed as part of the LeadingAge Pathways to Coverage: New Thinking on Financing Long-Term Services and Support, as well as a focus on increasing support for the workforce, creating career pathways, ensuring greater access to home and community-based services, and preventing elder abuse. 

While we have some concerns regarding specific elements of the plan, we appreciate a focus on the long-term services and support needs of our rapidly-growing aging population being a part of the national spotlight that accompanies a presidential election. 

The Dignity and Security in Retirement Act features four components:

• Making Long-Term Care Affordable
• Fully Support Direct Care Workers and Unpaid Family Caregivers
• Expand Access to Long-Term Care at Home and in Communities
• Improving Quality of Life for People in Long-Term Care 

To read more, see Dignity and Security in Retirement.