Advocacy in a Time of Change: 2025 Aging Network Fall Conferences Recap

Across two days in October, leaders, advocates, caregivers, and community partners gathered for the W4A–State Council on Aging Fall Advocacy Gathering and the Washington Senior Lobby Fall Conference. Both events underscored a shared reality: Washington is aging rapidly, and the systems that support older adults are facing new pressures at the federal, state, and local levels. But they also highlighted something just as important—we are not powerless. Our voices, stories, and community networks continue to shape the future of aging in our state.

The Policy Landscape is Shifting

Speakers from USAging, the Health Care Authority, and the Office of the Insurance Commissioner walked through major changes tied to the federal budget law known as HR1. These changes will:

• Create new Medicaid work requirements.
• Shorten coverage periods and increase recertification frequency.
• Reduce federal funding for programs that many older adults rely on.
• Increase administrative strain on families, caregivers, and health systems.

At the same time, enhanced premium tax credits that make health insurance more affordable could expire, risking coverage for thousands of Washington residents under age 65.

Communities Are Already Feeling the Strain

The League of Women Voters caregiving study and the Dementia Action Collaborative update reminded us that many caregivers are stretched thin—financially, emotionally, and physically. More people are living longer with cognitive impairment, and more families are trying to navigate care without enough support.

Research from the Department of Social and Health Services made it clear: Washington’s older adult population is growing faster than the workforce available to support it. That shift affects everything from housing and transportation to long-term care and local public health.

Reimagining Aging Services

The Home and Community Living Administration shared updates on ongoing reforms to make services more person-centered and easier to access—particularly services that help people remain safely in their homes, where most older adults prefer to be.

Meanwhile, state budget teams offered a clear message: The 2026 legislative session will involve hard choices. Federal funding reductions and higher costs mean we must be specific and united in the programs we advocate for.

But There is Hope—and Movement

Medicare open enrollment outreach is expanding.
Local dementia-friendly initiatives are growing.
Advocates are organizing earlier and more strategically than ever.
And Washington continues to lead national conversations on aging policy.

Advocacy Tip: Start Local, Build Up

Change often begins close to home. Before heading to Olympia or Washington, D.C., start by building awareness right where you are—in your city, neighborhood, or service area.

• Educate locally. Share updates about programs such as Health Homes, senior nutrition, or dementia-friendly initiatives with your local councils, senior centers, and community partners.
• Invite your legislators in. A short site visit to a meal site or caregiver support group often makes a bigger impression than a day of testimony.
• Follow up after the visit. Send a thank-you note that ties your story to one concrete ask, such as protecting funding or supporting a bill that strengthens aging services.

Advocacy doesn’t always mean a trip to the capitol. Every conversation that builds understanding in your own community strengthens the foundation for statewide action.

Michael Adusah is the staff liaison for the Seattle-King County Advisory Council on Aging & Disability Services, where he supports the council’s advocacy and community engagement. He works to help members advance policies and programs that promote healthy aging and independence.