Equal Opportunity and the Elderly

Abstract

America currently fails to provide total health to its elderly population. America provides the elderly with vital, albeit modest financial, assistance through Social Security and Medicare, but makes little provision for non-financial needs. If equality of opportunity is considered a factor, this is definitely not enough. Capability for normal functioning in society is intimately tied to the ability to remain independent, and therefore to housing options for this population. . . . it is vital that institutions provide quality, supportive care that fosters normal functioning as much as possible for residents. This conception of equality of opportunity requires that elderly citizens be given genuine choices, which they have the ability to pursue. This paper considers the various ways equality of opportunity manifests itself for senior citizens. [From the introductory section]