(Long Beach, CA, Tuesday, March 30, 2021) – As our experience with COVID shows, being well—especially for older adults—requires many needs being met, not just medical care. The past year showed that many people can receive care and support effectively at home, rather than leaving their immediate house or community.

As restrictions lift, older adults, their families and other caregivers are assessing what matters for their care and safety. Person-centered means that the care embodies the physical, behavioral and social needs of the individual.

Post-COVID, all states and the nation need a “master plan for aging” that helps reduce disparities and responds to the specific needs of older adults. A master plan for aging is a roadmap for system-wide changes in how services are coordinated, delivered and financed to better meet the needs of older adults.

There is evidence that racial and ethnic minority groups are being disproportionately affected by COVID-19. There is a stark digital divide based on age, especially in Black and minority communities that needs to be addressed.

The SCAN Foundation is focused on policies and programs that transform aging through person-centered care, an approach centered around an individual’s unique needs for care and support.

The number of older adults in America is rapidly increasing as the population ages. By 2034, the United States will — for the first time ever — be a country comprised of more older adults than of children. The U.S. Census Bureau projects there will be 77 million people age 65 and over.

The SCAN Foundation is an independent public charity devoted to transforming care for older adults in ways that preserve dignity and encourage independence. The organization envisions a  society where older adults can access health and supportive services of their choosing to meet their needs. To learn more, visit TheSCANFoundation.org.