States and communities across the country are responding to rapid demographic change as the population of older adults grows and becomes more diverse. Workforce shortages, rising care needs, and evolving expectations around access, technology, and care coordination are placing new demands on aging and health systems. Many states are developing Multisector Plans for Aging (MPAs) to align policy, coordinate services, and strengthen systems that support aging across health care, housing, transportation, and community services. At the same time, cities and counties are advancing Age-Friendly Community Action Plans to translate these broader policy goals into practical strategies that improve daily life for older adults.
This panel will explore how state and local leaders are working together to build age-ready systems through cross-sector collaboration, expansion of home- and community-based services, workforce development, and community planning. Panelists will discuss how statewide policy initiatives and local age-friendly strategies can reinforce one another to create coordinated systems that support healthy aging over the coming decade.