Home Duration for Medicare and Medicaid Dual Eligibles with Alzheimer’s Disease
Overview
This study examines the variation in days at home among older adults dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid with Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias (ADRD). Findings indicate significant geographic differences in home duration.
Background
Dually eligible individuals represent a vulnerable population with high healthcare needs, particularly those with ADRD. Home- and community-based services (HCBS) are essential for supporting these individuals in aging in place. Understanding geographic variations in home duration is important for this population.
Data Highlights
State
Mean Days at Home
Kentucky
159.3
Alabama
186.1
Rhode Island
190.8
Missouri
192.5
Washington
275.4
California
276.3
Oregon
282.5
Alaska
311.7
Key Findings
The study included 523,150 unique dually eligible PLWD with a mean age of 82 years.
Older dually eligible PLWD had a mean of 238.1 days at home in 2021.
HCBS users had a mean of 275.0 days at home.
Days at home varied significantly by state, from 159.3 days in Kentucky to 311.7 days in Alaska.
States like Alabama, Rhode Island, and Missouri had fewer than 195 days at home, while Washington, California, and Oregon had more than 270 days.
HCBS users had more days at home than the overall population, with state-specific variations.
Clinical Implications
The findings highlight the importance of HCBS in extending the time older adults with ADRD can remain at home. Geographic disparities in home duration may necessitate targeted interventions to improve access to HCBS across states.
Conclusion
This study highlights the significant variation in days at home among dually eligible PLWD.
