Baby Boomer Long-Term Services and Supports Expectations

The objective of this article is to determine options Boomers want for their long-term services and supports that are different than those in the current aging paradigm. Concept mapping, a mixed-methodology that analyzes qualitative data through quantitative processes, was used to generate ninety-nine statements that identified long-term services and supports expectations of baby boomers. Multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis were then used to quantify the responses. Ten clusters of boomer ideas were identified that included health care, supportive logistics, access to health care, self-determination, long-term living arrangements, aging in place, community connections, financial considerations, the dying experience, and a number of non-traditional ideas. Generally, Boomers want control over their life choices that include their long-term living arrangements, their dying experience, their healthcare choice and accessibility, their financial and logistical stability, and their community connections. Our study clearly shows that Boomers want a different paradigm for aging that is indicative of this generation’s different life experiences. While Boomers reported that control over their life was important, the feasibility of accomplishing that in all areas identified was marginal. Boomers may be left with the current homeostatic system that does not honor self-determination and independence if society does not respond with alternative aging models.