The “Silver Tsunami” is coming. The moniker refers to the aging Baby Boomer population that will contribute to an estimated 70% increase in the number of people needing care in nursing homes. A new effort is underway to make sure the elderly are not taken advantage of or being abused or neglected while in long-term care facilities.
The Sentinel Project has been launched in the Health Care Fraud Division of the Office of Michigan’s Attorney General. Its goal is to make surprise visits to facilities suspected of abuse or neglect through metrics, complaints, and other data.
The Sentinel Project is a law enforcement effort that will collaborate with the nursing home industry and regulatory agencies. It is being rolled out now in preparation for the inevitable rapid increase in the need for more long-term nursing care. By the year 2060, there will be over 94 million senior citizens in the United States, according to projections.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said, “We are dedicated to detecting and addressing any neglect or abuse of loved ones residing in long-term care facilities. Instances of substandard care must be eliminated, and The Sentinel Project will help accomplish that goal.”
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
