How about we start with some basics, and keep moving forward on this subject as this blog gets traction?
Here’s the basic rundown, in case you did not know:
Medicaid = Blanket name for government subsidized health care program for all ages with particular income limits. Financed by state, federal, and local monies.
Medical = California’s version of Medicaid.
Medicare = social security retirement (over 65) MEDICAL benefits. Also can be issued for certain disabled persons under 65.
Aside from the basic issue stated on my first entry, according to the Economist (March 12, 2011), 2009 disability claims of workers has claimed 18% of social security Medicare benefits, up from 10% in 1989. Disability claims jump during a recession. They have and will continue to strain the already breaking funds available for the elderly under social security.
Could it be true that even if our cultural attitude toward the elderly is not as “inspired” as Japan’s, that our respect for money, and the financial strain on the ensuing generations might drive us to fix this problem?