Cuts could push seniors into group homes
Updated: November 27, 2012
SPRINGFIELD -- Thousands of seniors could be forced into nursing homes because of state budget cuts. But, healthcare workers are trying to make sure that doesn't happen by asking lawmakers for more money. They need more than $300 million extra to fully fund a program to let seniors live at home while still getting the care they need.
Hundreds of home-care workers showed up at the capitol Tuesday. They say, not only will the seniors suffer, but they could also lose their jobs because seniors won't be able to afford in-home care on their own. There are currently about 100,000 people on the program paid for with state money.
The group says it's had cuts before, but this round is just too much. Workers say the program is important because seniors have a better quality of life in their own homes instead of group care. They say they know $300 million is a lot to ask for in a tight budget, but they're determined to save the program for the workers and seniors.
Hundreds of home-care workers showed up at the capitol Tuesday. They say, not only will the seniors suffer, but they could also lose their jobs because seniors won't be able to afford in-home care on their own. There are currently about 100,000 people on the program paid for with state money.
The group says it's had cuts before, but this round is just too much. Workers say the program is important because seniors have a better quality of life in their own homes instead of group care. They say they know $300 million is a lot to ask for in a tight budget, but they're determined to save the program for the workers and seniors.
