Despite claims that proposed state budget cuts to programs that provide in-home care to disabled senior citizens will not affect those with the highest level of need, a new analysis by the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research finds that even severely disabled seniors will experience a total loss of services.

Specifically, an analysis of data provided by nine California counties found that nearly 87 percent of senior citizens with cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia would lose all of their paid caregiver hours under the proposed cuts. Similarly, 91 percent of seniors who are unable to shop for their own food without “substantial” assistance would lose all services. In addition, 94 percent of those living alone would lose all their caregiver hours, as would approximately 90 percent of those age 80 and older. All of these scenarios are strongly predictive of increased rates of institutionalization.

Berman & Riedel, LLP is a San Diego based law firm that represents victims of elder abuse and neglect throughout Southern California and the rest of the state. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the care an elderly loved one is receiving in a California nursing home or other type of elder care facility, call the firm today at (858) 350-8855. Our attorneys will happily provide you and your family with an initial free consultation to discuss with you the rights you may have under California and federal law. To learn more about the firm, visit www.preventelderabuse.com.