PBS stations airing a special Frontline show TUESDAY Nov 21st, 9PM
Living Old
Nov. 21, 2006 at 9pm
| Those over 85 are the fastest growing segment of the U.S. population. Medical advances have enabled an unprecedented number of Americans to live longer, healthier lives, but millions suffer from chronic illness and protracted physical decline. Yet the number of available caregivers is dwindling. With families more dispersed than ever and a healthcare system overburdened, many experts fear that we are on the threshold of a major crisis. (more »)
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The full program made available for viewing online in Quicktime and Windows Media;
Extended interviews with geriatricians, a nurse, a general practitioner, a bioethicist and elderly people and family members on the hopes and challenges of aging;
Profiles of individuals and families featured in the program and the physical and emotional burdens they've experienced over the years -- even decades;
An interactive map featuring the demographics of America's elderly; the comparative costs of nursing homes, assisted living and home care;
Where to go: Links to nationally recognized organizations dealing with issues facing seniors, including aging and end-of-life care, plus the basics on Medicare/Medicaid;
Facts and stats offering an overview of aging issues in the U.S. and the world, including the shortage of geriatricians, the growing need for home health aides, and more;
Special readings and interviews on how faith affects attitudes on medical intervention, family obligations and death; the changes and reforms ahead for nursing homes; an introduction to the palliative care movement with more on the challenges of treating multiple chronic conditions; and an overview of societal and workplace reforms being proposed to help family members caring for their elderly relatives.
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Should give us TONS of advocacy ideas.
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