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Investing in Dignity: Why the FY27 Budget Matters for Older Massachusetts Residents
AARP testifies at Massachusetts budget hearing
AARP
AARP Massachusetts testified before the Joint Committee on Ways and Means Tuesday, March 31 and highlighted the importance of fully funding programs and services that help older adults live with dignity, independence, and security.
Jennifer Benson, AARP Massachusetts State Director, was joined by Dennis Hohengasser, AARP Massachusetts State President and lead volunteer, to speak on behalf of the Commonwealth’s growing older population and the millions of family members who support them every day.
Massachusetts is at a pivotal moment. Adults age 60 and older now make up nearly a quarter of the population, and for the first time in recorded history, residents over 60 will soon outnumber those under 20. With 1.7 million Bay Staters already in this age group, the need for thoughtful planning and sustained investment has never been greater.
At the same time, AARP recognizes the budget realities facing the Commonwealth, particularly as federal funding declines.
“We know that with significant reductions in federal funding the Fiscal Year 2027 budget will be challenging,” said Benson. “But, it provides funding for vital programs and services for older Massachusetts residents, and we urge you to continue that support this year.”
AARP Massachusetts’ budget priorities reflect the real needs of older adults and their families. That includes supporting the Commonwealth’s 1.4 million family caregivers, who provide essential care to loved ones often with little support of their own. It also means expanding access to home- and community-based services that allow people to age safely in their own homes rather than in institutional settings.
Dennis Hohengasser outlined specific recommendations for the FY27 budget, including full and adequate funding for home care, senior housing, adult day health services, and a strong long-term care continuum. He also emphasized the importance of nutrition programs such as Meals on Wheels, congregate meals, SNAP, and the Healthy Incentives Program, which help address food insecurity among older adults.
Other critical priorities include funding for Councils on Aging and Senior Centers, Elder Protective Services, adult guardianship, and defined leaves of absence for nursing home residents. AARP also urged lawmakers to ensure direct care workers earn a living wage that reflects the high cost of living in Massachusetts.
“AARP believes the Commonwealth must invest in these vital programs, services, and budgets now,” said Hohengasser. “We know that with each budget, difficult decisions must be made. We also know that the most vulnerable among us must be protected.”
AARP opposed a proposed $2,000 asset limit for Emergency Aid to the Elderly and Disabled, warning that it could leave some of the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable residents with no income at all.
The Massachusetts House and Senate must agree on a final version of the budget. Then, they need to send it to the governor for her signature before the July 1 deadline. As lawmakers move forward, AARP Massachusetts will keep urging them to put older adults and family caregivers at the center of every draft and debate.
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