COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Aging announced the launch of Ohio’s 2023-26 State Plan on Aging on Oct. 3.
What You Need To Know
- The ODA is required to submit a state plan on aging periodically to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration
- Approval of the state plan provides Ohio the ability to withdraw federal Older Americans Act funding
- In order to develop the plan, the ODA conducted a “multiphase needs assessment” process
According to an ODA press release, “the plan calls on all Ohioans… to join forces to help Ohioans live longer, healthier lives with dignity and autonomy, and to eliminate disparities and inequities in aging.”
The 2023-26 State Plan on Aging addresses community conditions, healthy living, access to care, social connectedness, population health and preserving independence.
“This plan is a roadmap for working toward our common vision of making Ohio the best place to age in the nation by allowing Ohioans to live longer, healthier lives,” said Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine.
As Ohio’s federally designated State Unit on aging, the ODA is required to submit a state plan on aging periodically to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Community Living.
Approval of the state plan provides Ohio the ability to withdraw federal Older Americans Act funding. This funding helps support critical programs and services, including home-delivered meals, transportation, caregiver supports and more.
In order to develop the plan, the ODA conducted a “multiphase needs assessment” process. This process included an online survey of more than 1,200 older adults, adults with disabilities and caregivers.
The department hosted a public hearing in March 2022 and three virtual stakeholder meetings to gather input from the public.
“Creating the plan was a collaborative process and implementing it will be a team effort among ODA and all of our aging network partners to ensure that all Ohioans can age with grace and dignity,” said ODA Director Ursel J. McElroy. “This plan masterfully reframes how we view aging and the healthy aging process. It highlights the link between social determinants of health and longevity, prompting us to rethink our approaches to policymaking, service delivery, and investment priorities.”
To view the entire plan, visit the 2023-26 State Plan on Aging page on the ODA website