The right to vote, enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, is a responsibility that LeadingAge and its members work hard to ensure older adults can exercise–wherever they call home. 

In this year’s midterms, voters nationwide have two opportunities to exercise their right to enfranchisement: the midterm primaries and the midterm general election. Primaries—the earliest of which began March 3—take place through mid-September; June, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures, is the busiest month for state primaries, with 15 scheduled. All states hold midterm general election voting on the same day; in 2026, it will be Tuesday, November 3. 

LeadingAge member Sheboygan Senior Center (SSC), for instance, works closely with community leaders to create a smooth and comfortable process for its nursing home and assisted living residents. “Seeing many of the same familiar faces each election helps,” said Melissa Thiel, director of life enrichment. 

To help our mission-driven and nonprofit members serve their communities, in this updated Voting Information and Election Resources page, and an accompanying downloadable one-pager, LeadingAge provides details on how to register to vote, find your polling place, and more—along with specifics for nonprofit 501 (c) (3)s. 

Voting Day Process

In March, SSC in Wisconsin, which is one of 22 states that makes supervised absentee voting programs available in long-term care communities, welcomed Special Voting Deputies from the Town of Sheboygan to assist residents with absentee voting for the spring general election, held in early April.

“We’ve developed a wonderful working relationship with the Town Clerk and Special Voting Deputies over the years,” said SSC’s Thiel. “Together, we have established a system that allows absentee voting to feel very similar to a traditional polling place.” Two separate rooms, each with individual tables to protect voters’ privacy, are set up; residents who need help with reading or marking their ballot are assisted by the deputies or by SSC staff, who are trained to provide help in a non-biased manner.   

“The process on voting day was good,” reports resident Marilyn. “They made it feel comfortable and were good about privacy which is very important.”

Prior to every election, Thiel follows a routine to ensure SSC’s nursing home and assisted living residents are prepared. For those who want to register, she assists with completing the necessary paperwork and submitting it to town officials. Notices are posted on bulletin boards, monthly event calendars, and newsletters to help keep everyone informed about upcoming elections and voting opportunities. Sample ballots are also made available so residents can do their own research and feel prepared before voting day.

“Voting is a privilege I’ve always treasured,” said resident Mary Fleischman, who urges others to participate in elections whenever possible. “ I’m glad the opportunity to exercise that privilege is still available to me. I’m very thankful for it.”