As states across the country prepare for a rapidly aging population, multisector plans for aging (MPAs) have emerged as a powerful tool for coordinating policy, programs, and investments across government agencies. Fourteen states are implementing MPAs, and more than half of all states are exploring or developing one. Among the priorities these plans address, caregiver support is a consistent focus, and every state MPA released to date includes strategies to support family caregivers.

This webinar, cohosted by the Center for Health Care Strategies (CHCS) and the National Academy for State Health Policy (NASHP) with support from The John A. Hartford Foundation, offered insights from MPA officials in three states: North Carolina, Texas, and Vermont. Speakers shared how their states have translated MPA goals into concrete actions that address family caregivers’ needs. The 60-minute event highlighted implementation lessons and offered practical insights for states seeking to strengthen support for caregivers.

The states featured participated in the Multisector Plan for Aging Learning Collaborative, a learning community that helps states advance their MPAs. The initiative is led by CHCS through support from The SCAN Foundation, West Health, the May & Stanley Smith Charitable Trust, and The Henry and Marilyn Taub Foundation.

Agenda

I. Welcome, Introduction, and Overview

Speaker: Wendy Fox-Grage, Senior Director, NASHP

Wendy Fox-Grage welcomed participants and introduced speakers.

II. Overview of Caregiving Within State MPAs

Speaker: Torshira Moffett, Senior Program Officer, CHCS

Torshira Moffett provided context and an overview of how states have incorporated caregiving into their MPAs.

III. Key Progress and Accomplishments in North Carolina, Texas, and Vermont

Speakers: Caylee Weaver, Planner/Evaluator, Division of Aging, NC Department of Health and Human Services, Sara Damiano, Director, Office of Aging Services Coordination, TX Health and Human Services, Sarah Keating, Manager, Age Strong VT

State MPA officials in North Carolina, Texas, and Vermont shared examples of their states’ goals for and experiences supporting caregivers through their MPAs. Speakers highlighted early progress through expanding caregiver resources, developing awareness initiatives, improving respite utilization, and more.

IV. Panel Discussion

Moderator: Wendy Fox-Grage, Senior Director, NASHP

Wendy Fox-Grage moderated a panel discussion among state speakers to share key implementation considerations, challenges, and effective strategies to translate MPA goals into action, including building partnerships, systems alignment, and data infrastructure.

V. Moderated Q&A 

Moderator: Wendy Fox-Grage, Senior Director, NASHP