By Jennifer Benson, AARP Massachusetts State Director
As Election Day approaches, Massachusetts voters are weighing issues that affect their daily lives. Many families are feeling the strain of rising costs, from groceries and housing to health care and long-term care. At the same time, many are caring for an aging loved one, planning for retirement, or trying to make ends meet on a fixed income. These challenges are shaping conversations around kitchen tables across the Commonwealth.
As a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, AARP does not endorse candidates or political parties, and we never tell people who to vote for. Instead, we provide trusted information about when, where, and how to vote while elevating the issues that matter most to older adults and their families. Family caregiving and Social Security stand out because they touch millions of families around the nation.
Across Massachusetts, nearly 1.4 million people care for an aging parent, spouse, relative, friend, or neighbor. These family caregivers help loved ones remain independent in their homes and communities. Many do so while balancing jobs, family responsibilities, and financial pressures of their own. Together, they provide an estimated 920 million hours of care each year, work valued at approximately $22 billion annually.
While caregiving can be rewarding, it often comes with significant personal and financial sacrifices. Many caregivers spend their own money to support loved ones, reduce work hours, or put their own needs on hold. That’s why AARP continues to advocate for commonsense solutions that save family caregivers time and money and help them get the support they need.
Social Security is another issue that touches households across the Commonwealth. More than 1.3 million Massachusetts residents receive Social Security, and those earned payments contribute approximately $28.4 billion to the state’s economy every year. For many older adults, Social Security helps cover essential expenses such as food, housing, utilities, and health care.
Social Security remains one of the nation’s most successful and important programs, but it faces long-term financial challenges. Current projections show that around late 2032, the program will have about 80 percent of the funding needed to make full payments unless Congress takes action. AARP is urging lawmakers to come together on solutions that strengthen Social Security and ensure Americans continue receiving the payments they earned through a lifetime of work.
Voting is one of the most powerful ways people can make their priorities known. Whether your concerns center on affordability, supporting family caregivers, protecting Social Security, or strengthening your community, elections provide an opportunity to make your voice heard.
Before Election Day, November 3, take a few moments to make a plan to vote. Learn about your voting options, know the deadlines, and encourage family and friends to participate. An informed and engaged electorate helps ensure that the issues affecting everyday lives, families, and communities remain front and center in the conversations that shape our future—so visit aarp.org/mavotes, make your plan today, and make your voice heard.
Jennifer Benson is the State Director for AARP Massachusetts. For more articles visit www.fiftyplusadvocate.com.
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