Top 5 Things to Know About Aging in America: Insights for the Health Policy Community

With so many resources and programs available, it can be overwhelming to understand which policies truly shape the lives of older Americans. This webinar cuts through the noise to spotlight four foundational policies—Medicare, Medicaid, the Social Security Administration (SSA), and the Older Americans Act (OAA)—that have the greatest impact on aging populations.

A panel of experts shared the resources they find most useful to learn the basics, master the details, and follow the latest on these fundamental building blocks of aging policy. Speakers highlighted innovations and emerging models from across the country that offer a glimpse into the future of aging policy. Expect expert insights and an interactive Q&A surfaced both policy nuance and practical experience.

By the end of the webinar, participants were able to:
Identify the top 5 things policymakers need to know about Medicare, Medicaid, the SSA, and the OAA, including how they work, who they serve, and the challenges they face.
Recognize 2–3 pressing policy issues being tracked in the current year (e.g., legislation, court rulings, regulatory shifts) that affect older Americans.
Describe at least one innovative program or model—whether local, state, or federal—that could shape future aging policy.
Understand real-life implications for older adults accessing these programs and barriers to care.
Be able to debunk common myths and misconceptions about aging and benefits

Speakers
-Moderator: Rob Lott, M.S., Senior Deputy Editor, Health Affairs
-Abby Cox, M.A., MSW, Senior Director of Aging Policy, ADvancing States
-Rebecca Vallas, J.D., CEO, National Academy of Social Insurance
-Tricia Neuman, Sc.D., Senior Vice President, Executive Director for Program on Medicare Policy, KFF
-Darin Gordon, B.S., Founding Partner, Speire Healthcare Strategies

This webinar was made possible thanks to our 2025 Signature Series Champion Sponsors Elevance Health, GSK, and Kaiser Permanente.