Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has signed an Executive Order and introduced a new statewide initiative, ReiMAgine Aging 2030: The Massachusetts Plan, aimed at improving support for the state’s older adults. The plan outlines a coordinated approach to make the state more age-friendly and directs all executive branch offices to incorporate policies that benefit seniors.
According to Mass.gov, during a visit to the Center for Active Living in Plymouth, Governor Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, and Aging & Independence Secretary Robin Lipson discussed the plan’s goals. These include improving housing, healthcare access, and affordability for seniors. "To help ensure older adults in Massachusetts can live longer, healthier lives on their own terms, we are taking steps to make Massachusetts even more age- and dementia-friendly. We want all of our residents, as well as those who are making decisions about where to spend their retirement, to know that we are working every day to make life easier and more affordable for people of all ages," Healey stated.
The plan was developed using feedback collected during 2024 listening sessions with residents and stakeholders. Its key focus areas include economic security, community engagement, transportation access, public health, and the creation of age-inclusive policies. Driscoll emphasized that the administration seeks to support individuals in making informed decisions about work, retirement, and well-being.
As part of the rollout, the state will invest in age-friendly programs over the next five years. These include tax relief for seniors, changes to the elder affairs office—now renamed Aging & Independence—and expanded eligibility for Medicare Savings Programs. The administration has also increased funding for local Councils on Aging and enhanced tax abatement options for seniors who volunteer.
Plymouth Town Manager Derek Brindisi acknowledged the significance of the initiative, noting that 47% of the town's population is aged 50 or older. A digital version of the ReiMAgine Aging 2030 plan is available online and will guide the state’s policies through the end of the decade.
