AARP Puerto Rico convened representatives and senators at a Legislative Dialogue Table to push for an Integrated Support Network for Aging at Home and in the Community, aiming to coordinate resources and services so more people can stay in their homes safely, independently and with dignity. AARP cited a gap: 86% of Puerto Ricans aged 50 or older want to remain in their homes as they age, but only 18% believe the island is prepared to provide the needed supports.
José R. Acarón, AARP Puerto Rico state director, said people clearly want to age at home near family, neighbors and community, and that the island still lacks a sufficiently integrated network. AARP presented data: in 2025 Puerto Rico had about 1.04 million people aged 60 or older (32% of the population); roughly 550,000 households (45% of the total) were headed by someone 60 or older; and 84% of people 60 or older own their homes.
Sixteen legislative offices were represented, and the discussion covered health, housing, transportation, community services, economic development and public policy. AARP proposed five lines of action: an integrated public policy for aging at home and in the community; an interagency, multisector structure; pilot projects in identified communities; mixed financing mechanisms; and a common system for referrals, navigation, data and evaluation.
It also proposed a timeline: form a driving group and select gaps in 30 days; define pilot projects, resources and metrics in 90 days; and implement, measure and document initiatives over 12 months. AARP presented the deadlines as a proposal for discussion.