California Releases 2025–2029 State Plan on Aging

California has unveiled its 2025–2029 Older Americans Act (OAA) State Plan on Aging, outlining how the state will use federal funding to support older adults, people with disabilities, and family caregivers over the next four years. The plan, developed by the California Department of Aging (CDA), is part of a broader effort to prepare for the state’s rapidly growing aging population and aligns closely with the California Master Plan for Aging, a 10-year blueprint to make the state more age- and ability-friendly by 2030.

According to the CDA, one in four Californians will be age 60 or older by 2030, and the number of residents aged 80 and above is projected to nearly triple. The new plan recognizes this major demographic shift and sets a path toward a stronger, more equitable aging network that can meet the diverse needs of older adults across the state.

The federal Older Americans Act funds critical services such as nutrition programs, caregiver support, elder justice initiatives, and community-based care. To receive this funding, states must submit a comprehensive plan detailing goals and strategies for implementing these programs. California’s 2025–2029 plan focuses on building an inclusive system that ensures access, equity, and dignity for all aging residents.

At the core of the plan are six primary goals. These include enhancing outreach and information access so older adults and caregivers can better navigate available services, expanding opportunities for individuals to age in place within their homes and communities, and addressing isolation and elder abuse through stronger community engagement. The plan also emphasizes the importance of building partnerships across government, nonprofit, and private sectors; promoting financial stability among older Californians; and supporting the network of aging service providers statewide to strengthen their capacity and sustainability.

Equity is a major theme throughout the document. The CDA acknowledges that California’s aging population is among the most diverse in the nation, and targeted efforts must focus on those with the greatest economic and social needs. The plan also highlights the importance of technology, data sharing, and community engagement to ensure programs remain accessible, effective, and responsive to local realities.

For older adults and people with disabilities, the plan signals an expanded focus on independence, inclusion, and home-based care. Family caregivers will also receive greater support through programs that help reduce burnout and improve access to respite services. Meanwhile, community-based organizations, nonprofits, and local Area Agencies on Aging will play an essential role in implementing the plan and delivering measurable outcomes.

The OAA State Plan on Aging is closely tied to the state’s Master Plan for Aging, which focuses on housing, health, inclusion, caregiving, and economic security for older residents. Together, these two initiatives create a unified framework for action — one that addresses both immediate needs and long-term goals through 2030.

California’s challenge now lies in implementation. Success will depend on continued collaboration, adequate funding, and the ability to adapt to changes in demographics, technology, and economic conditions. Public engagement and accountability will also be key in ensuring the plan delivers real impact for communities across the state.

By setting clear priorities and fostering partnerships, California’s 2025–2029 OAA State Plan on Aging offers more than a policy roadmap — it reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that every older Californian can age with dignity, purpose, and support in the place they call home.

You can read the full plan on the California Department of Aging’s official website here.