All older adults deserve access to, choice of, and means to quality long-term services and supports (LTSS) tailored to their individual needs and preferences in their setting of choice. However, evidence shows stark racial and ethnic differences in outcomes in care and experiences in LTSS. These disparities are rooted in long-standing issues and inequities that the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated.
This LTSS Choices Spotlight Series aims to illuminate existing research on racial and ethnic disparities in LTSS and elevate actionable opportunities to address these inequities. Experts will explore the history behind racial and ethnic disparities, including the systemic and structural forces that allow for many of these inequities to persist today. As demonstrated in the spotlight series, addressing these disparities will require multipronged policies and initiatives at the federal, state, and local levels. Experts will provide opportunities to advance equity in LTSS and, as a result, improve older adults’ quality of care and quality of life as they age.
Explore the Series:
Addressing Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Nursing Homes
- This Spotlight explores the history of racial and ethnic inequities in nursing homes, discusses trends in nursing home admissions by race and ethnicity, and proposes recommendations for change. The recommendations in this report focus on system-level changes aimed at eliminating inequities faced by Black, Hispanic, American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) residents, as well as other residents of color who are Medicaid beneficiaries.
Nursing Home Workforce Issues and Inequities
This Spotlight examines nursing home worker issues, including low wages and benefits and lack of career advancement opportunities. It highlights the importance of addressing these issues and inequities to ensure residents receive the quality care they need and deserve. Addressing these challenges will require a multifaceted approach outlined in this Spotlight, including improving compensation and benefits and strengthening training and education programs to attract and retain skilled workers.