Former Louisiana Sen. Conrad Appel says the state's oldest residents should have a choice, including those with lower incomes. Rather than being forced into nursing homes when they need help with care, they should be able to receive services in the comfort of their homes. Two years ago, Appel attempted to pass legislation that would have allowed many senior citizens on Medicaid to receive home-based care rather than be forced into nursing homes. The powerful nursing home lobby in the state helped squash Appel's efforts, he said.
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