Multisector Plan For Aging: Paving the Way for Healthy Aging

Multisector Plans for Aging (MPAs) are frameworks designed by state governments to address the needs of older adults through coordinated systems of care and support. These plans integrate healthcare, housing, transportation, and social determinants of health to promote healthy aging, independent living, and social engagement. As of November 2024, nine states, including California, Colorado, Massachusetts, and Texas, have implemented MPAs, with Utah nearing completion. These plans, supported by legislation or executive orders, aim to align state agencies, stakeholders, and community resources to achieve shared goals such as enhancing physical health, caregiving, and social inclusion.

Common steps in developing MPAs include identifying the need, securing government buy-in, gathering input from diverse stakeholders, and establishing actionable goals. Key priorities shared across states include behavioral health, economic security, transportation, and combating ageism. Each state tailors its plan to address unique challenges; for instance, California uses a data dashboard to track progress, while Vermont emphasizes combating social isolation and elder justice. Stakeholder engagement is a cornerstone, involving advisory committees, focus groups, and public feedback to ensure inclusivity and relevance.

MPAs are seen as essential tools for tackling systemic challenges like healthcare accessibility, caregiver support, and social isolation. They foster collaboration across sectors and adapt over time to meet evolving needs. Resources like the MPA Learning Collaborative and support from organizations such as West Health encourage states to develop or refine their plans. These efforts aim to create age-friendly communities and improve the quality of life for older adults nationwide.