Washington’s Multisector Plan for Aging Explained

Multisector plans for aging (MPAs) are becoming increasingly common among numerous US states. One of the newest states to introduce an MPA is Washington. The State Department of Social and Health Services is aiming to get approval from the legislative branch in 2025, and this new program could transform the way seniors age in place. Seniors should take a moment to understand how this program works, and how it might benefit them during retirement. For additional guidance on aging in place, consider speaking with a Kennewick elder law attorney.

Washington’s MPA Could Be Ready by 2029 

Washington’s MPA may be particularly exciting for seniors who plan to retire in the next five years, as the plan is set to be ready by 2029. The process began in 2023 when Washington joined a multistate collaborative effort to develop MPAs. Other states involved in this process include California, Maryland, and Vermont.

What exactly is an MPA? 

The Center for Health Care Strategies describes multisector plans for aging as “strategic planning resources.” The goal is to help states leverage their infrastructure and services to help seniors navigate the aging process. A significant focus for each MPA is aging in place, as governments today understand that keeping seniors within their own homes is cheaper and preferable to long-term care facilities.

“Multisector” is the keyword here. A successful MPA brings together multiple industries to help with the various challenges a senior might experience during retirement. Recently, an advocate for Washington’s MPA highlighted the need for reliable transport – but this is just one example. Seniors aging in place also need access to reliable food deliveries, certain renovations to help with mobility, and of course medical care.

The Center for Health Care Strategies outlines three “core tenets” for a successful MPA. These include transparency & inclusion, embedded equity, and person-centered planning. The end result is a system that provides assistance to all seniors, giving them considerable control over how they want to live out their twilight years.

Washington Is Preparing for a Growing Number of Senior Residents 

As the American Association for Retired Persons (AARP) notes, Washington’s senior population is growing. In 2000, only 11% of the state’s population was over the age of 65. That number has ballooned to 18%, and by 2050 it could be as high as 25%.

Washington’s MPA is a move in the right direction, but seniors should know that the growing number of retirees could put a significant strain on various industries – and not just the healthcare system. This highlights the need to plan effectively – today.

Can an Elder Law Attorney in Kennewick Help Me Age in Place? 

An elder law attorney in Kennewick may be able to help you age in place. With help from one of these legal professionals, you might find it easier to access and learn more about various government programs and resources geared toward seniors in Washington. Elder law attorneys may also help you assess your financial situation, potentially establishing trusts and using other strategies to qualify for programs like Medicaid. To learn more, contact Moulton Law Offices today.

Sources: 

states.aarp.org/washington/washington-states-multisector-plan-aging

chcs.org/resource/developing-a-master-plan-for-aging/