Cecily O'Connor  
RedwoodAge.com

The vast majority of adults think long-term services and supports are vital to national health care reform, according to a new poll.

About 85 percent of adults said a reform package should include a range of services people need when they can no longer independently care for themselves because of age, chronic disease or serious injury, according to research sponsored by the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging.

More adults want services in the home and community, which are less expensive than nursing homes and other forms of institutional care.

And given the rate at which the nation is aging, and the rising costs associated with caring for loved ones, it's critical that long-term care services are not ignored.

"It's time for Congress to recognize that long-term services and supports are a part of health care that voters expect Congress to address before the baby boomers strain an already strapped system," said Larry Minnix, chief executive officer of the aging association.

Range of Thinking
Reform proposals on the table currently have Democrats seeking to create a public insurance plan, while Republican lawmakers have introduced legislation that would give Americans tax credits to pay for health insurance.

A measure is expected to be passed by the end of July.

More than half of Americans feel strongly that with so many Americans needing help caring for the elderly and disabled, not health care reform plan is complete unless it addresses long-term services and supports.

These services could include care for people with Alzheimer's or assistance for an older person in taking their medications. Most long-term care aims to assist people with daily activities like dressing, bathing and using the bathroom.