Elder Care in the 2024 Presidential Race: A Comparative Analysis

As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the candidates' stances on elder care have come under scrutiny. This article explores how Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and Republican nominee Donald Trump differ in their approaches to elder care, focusing on the role of government, caregiver support, paid family leave, and care affordability.


Firstly, the role of government in elder care is a significant point of divergence between the candidates. Harris envisions an expanded federal role, with substantial government investment in caregiving infrastructure, financial support for families, and direct service provisions. In contrast, Trump's approach relies more on market-based solutions and state-level governance, aiming to reduce federal involvement and regulation.

Secondly, the candidates' focus on the source of care – direct workers or family caregivers – differs. Harris places a stronger emphasis on improving conditions for paid caregivers, including home health aides and nursing staff, by raising wages and providing better training. Trump's platform, though supportive of family caregivers through tax incentives, does not offer the same focus on the professional caregiving workforce.

Thirdly, the candidates' plans for paid family leave vary. While Trump's first administration offered a limited parental leave plan for federal workers, this isn't a fixture of the 2024 campaign platform. Harris' approach is broader, encompassing not only parental leave but also leave to care for aging family members.

Lastly, the candidates' plans for care affordability differ. Harris' platform emphasizes making these caregiving services more cost-effective for a wider variety of families and individuals. Trump's plan is more focused on providing different economic tools to make such care more attainable through tax credits, access to private insurance coverage for some of these costs, and offering the ability for the management of care services on an individual basis.


In conclusion, the 2024 presidential candidates have distinct views on elder care, with Harris advocating for an expanded federal role and Trump favoring market-based solutions. As the election approaches, voters should consider these differences in their decision-making process, as the winner's policies could significantly impact the elder care landscape in the United States.