BANGOR, Maine (AP) - Nursing home operators across Maine are struggling to remain open and support the state’s aging population.

The Bangor Daily News reports the Ledgeview Living Center in West Paris was one of six nursing homes that closed in 2018. About 200 residents had lived in the facilities.

Officials say underfunding and declining staff levels have hurt nursing homes. Medicare reimbursement issues have affected facilities, as well.

Almost a third of the state’s population is projected to be over the age 65 by 2030. Maine has lost nearly 40 nursing homes since 1995. According to Maine Health Care Association President and CEO Richard Erb, Maine has fewer nursing home beds than the U.S. average.

Maine Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program Executive Director Brenda Gallant says more people are receiving home care instead of entering nursing homes.

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Information from: Bangor Daily News, http://www.bangordailynews.com

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