MPA Issue Brief + Vermont Spotlight & Upcoming Event

The Rise of MPAs: A National Snapshot 

Nearly half of older adults in the U.S.—about 28 million people ages 65+—now live in states with a Multisector Plan for Aging (MPA), with 14 states leading the way. Our latest issue brief highlights how these comprehensive, cross-sector plans are helping states prepare for a rapidly aging population. MPAs bring together agencies, communities, and stakeholders to address critical issues such as healthcare, housing, transportation, and economic security, while promoting healthy aging and independence. As more states move toward developing their own plans, this growing momentum signals a shift toward more coordinated, statewide approaches to support aging populations across the country.

Read the full issue brief here: Multisector Plan for Aging 

Rural Innovation in Aging: Lessons from Southeastern Vermont

Our latest Generations Now article spotlights Southeastern Vermont as a model for rural aging, showcasing how local collaboration and creative solutions are helping older adults thrive. Guided by the state’s 10-year “Age Strong VT” plan, partners across the region—including Area Agencies on Aging, senior centers, healthcare providers, and grassroots organizations—are working together to address challenges such as transportation, housing, and social isolation. Through initiatives like aging-in-place programs, community care networks, and regional coalitions, Southeastern Vermont demonstrates how coordinated, community-driven efforts can help older adults remain healthy, connected, and independent.

Read the full article here: Multisector Plan for Aging

Upcoming Events 

ASA On Aging 2026 Annual Conference 

April 20–23, 2026 | Hyatt Regency Atlanta | Atlanta, GA

On Aging is the nation’s largest multidisciplinary conference on aging, convened annually by the American Society on Aging (ASA), bringing together thousands of professionals to advance policy, practice, and research.

MPA Featured Sessions:
How Multisector Plans for Aging Are Shaping the Aging Experience—A Stakeholder Perspective
Atlanta, GA | April 21 | 9:00–10:00 AM | Lenox Room

From Stigma to Systems Change—HIV Equity in California’s Aging Policy
Atlanta, GA | April 21 | 4:00–5:00 PM | Marietta

California’s “Overlooked Middle”—Planning for Those Aging in the Middle
Atlanta, GA | April 21 | 4:00–5:00 PM | Harris

Power of Alignment—Strengthening Aging Services Through MPA & SPA Integration
Atlanta, GA | April 21 | 4:00–5:00 PM | Hanover E

How MPAs Are Impacting the Experience of Aging—A Stakeholder Perspective
Atlanta, GA | April 23 | 9:00–10:00 AM | Lenox

Registration for On Aging 2026 is now open! 

USAging Answers on Aging 2026 Conference & Tradeshow 

July 18–21, 2026 | San Diego, CA
Don’t miss the USAging Answers on Aging Annual Conference and Tradeshow, the largest gathering of aging network professionals in the United States. This four-day event brings together Area Agencies on Aging, tribal aging programs, policymakers, service providers, and community partners to share insights, explore new strategies, and build meaningful connections that support older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers nationwide. With more than 100 sessions focused on innovative practices in advocacy, caregiving, housing, transportation, workforce development, social engagement, and more, attendees will gain practical tools and new ideas to strengthen aging services in their communities. Whether you’re looking to enhance program delivery, expand your professional network, or stay current on national trends and policy, this is a must-attend event.

Register here:  

ADvancing States 2026 Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Conference

August 23–27, 2026 | Baltimore Marriott Waterfront | Baltimore, MD

Save the date for the 2026 Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Conference, ADvancing States’ premier national event focused on strengthening long-term services and supports (LTSS). The conference convenes policymakers and HCBS leaders to share innovative practices that improve state systems. Registration opens Spring 2026—sign up to receive updates.

Sign up for updates

GSA 2026 Annual Scientific Meeting

November 4 - 7 | National Harbor, MD
Join global leaders in aging and gerontology at the GSA 2026 Annual Scientific Meeting to explore cutting-edge research, connect with peers, and advance resilience in aging science. Don’t miss this opportunity to collaborate, share insights, and shape the future of healthy aging at one of the field’s premier events. Registration opens March 1.
Register here

Contact us

For questions, comments, or suggestions related to MPAs or the newsletter, please do not hesitate to contact us at MPA@westhealth.org.