Vermont's population is aging.

 

By 2030, an estimated 30% of Vermonters will be over 60.

That means the kinds of services we provide will need to change, and we will need to strengthen our social infrastructure to meet the needs of our senior neighbors. 

 

As a member of the House Appropriations committee, Rebecca supported rate increases to community providers that serve seniors, including Designated Agencies, Specialized Service Agencies, Adult Day Centers, dementia care providers, Area Agencies on Aging, and Enhanced Residential Care providers and nursing homes.

 

She also supported expanding eligibility for Medicare Savings Programs starting in fiscal year 2026 and funding for Meals on Wheels, to ensure housebound seniors have better access to good nutrition.

 

Rebecca advocates for developing housing options that allow seniors to make housing choices that meet their needs, whether it is downsizing to a smaller home in their community when they retire, building an ADU on their property, aging in place, or moving to a more supportive assisted living arrangement if needed.

 

Rebecca is a strong supporter of strengthening our system of community care coordinators, so that people can get help accessing the care they need to stay healthy and independent, and so that they don't end up needing more expensive institutional care if and when it is not needed and not wanted.