It’s no secret that Connecticut’s elderly population is growing. The state legislature enacted sweeping reforms in 2024 in an attempt to address the unique needs of this expanding demographic by increasing access to in-home care and oversight at nursing homes, among other items. A home care provider registry was mandated to be created by the beginning of 2025, so consumers can more easily find qualified home care workers and, on October 1, 2025, a Senior Citizens’ Bill of Rights will go into effect, allowing the elderly more control over their care decisions and where they live.
Organizations representing older generations say there still is more to do. Priorities for 2025 include further protection for nursing home residents, affordable prescription drugs and utilities, family caregiver support, as well as safeguards against financial fraud and predatory lending. Add to this, recent changes for Social Security and Medicare/Medicaid and aging becomes fraught with challenges.
Changes coming with new legislative session
The 2025 Connecticut State Legislative Session is prioritizing a number of these issues, and building on their 2024 work. Notable legislative topics related to elder law include: aging in place, homelessness, affordable utilities, and prescription drug pricing. With the session ending in early June, 2025, Elder Law changes could become effective in the near future so it’s important to be aware of how these updates may impact individuals 65 or older.
Some of these legal changes could also have implications for already-established estate plans, including planning for Medicaid and long-term care. It’s important to seek out professional guidance for keeping these plans up to date.