The Department of Aging will seek input on ideas that support and promote the ability of older adults to stay in their communities; address disparities based on demographic, economic, and geographic differences; and allow for person-centered planning.
The Pennsylvania Department of Aging gathered input for the first time on a “Master Plan for Older Adults” just hours after Gov. Josh Shapiro directed the Department to develop a 10-year, state-led and stakeholder-driven strategic plan designed to help transform the infrastructure and coordination of services for older Pennsylvanians.
The master plan will also reflect the needs and preferences of this population to live where they choose and access the support they need to thrive and age in place.
Prior to this regional kickoff event to gather input, Gov. Shapiro signed an Executive Order at the United Neighborhood Center in Scranton to authorize the development of the Master Plan for Older Adults.
“We are thankful for Gov. Shapiro signing the Executive Order,” said Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich. “It is a clear demonstration of how the health, well-being, and quality of life for older Pennsylvanians are priorities for the Administration and for the Commonwealth. The Master Plan for Older Pennsylvanians will be crafted by Pennsylvanians, for Pennsylvanians.
This Executive Order signing is Governor Shapiro’s latest step in supporting Pennsylvania seniors by ensuring they have access to critical services – building on his commonsense budget proposal to expand the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program and help seniors across the Commonwealth stay in their homes.
“The voices of older adults must resonate in every component of this plan. As the Department, Pennsylvania Association for Area Agencies on Aging, and AARP work with the local Area Agencies on Aging and Centers for Independent Living, we will visit communities we serve across the state to make sure those Pennsylvanians who want to be heard know their opinions, thoughts, and priorities are reflected in this strategic initiative.”
“We owe it to the generations who came before us to ensure they have resources and support as they age,: said U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, D-Scranton. “I commend Gov. Shapiro for his leadership and his work to ensure that the needs of Pennsylvania’s seniors are front and center. As we build a better economy and look towards Pennsylvania’s future, we must ensure older adults and people with disabilities are given the support and protection they need to be healthy, safe, and economically secure.”
The Department discussed the development of the plan during a regional kickoff event that was hosted by the University of Scranton. Secretary Kavulich was joined by local legislators and leaders to present an overview of the plan.
Secretary Kavulich highlighted the plan’s core tenets, and how the Department will engage stakeholders, older adults, their families, caregivers, and community leaders to identify policies, programs, and infrastructure that promote and support good health, well-being, and quality of life to incorporate into the plan.
Throughout the development process, the Department will seek input on ideas that support and promote the ability of older adults to stay in their communities; address disparities based on demographic, economic, and geographic differences; allow for person-centered planning; and re-frame how we think about, talk about, and value older adults.
Individuals who would like to submit input on the plan can either email AgingPlan@pa.gov, provide feedback through an online form, or mail the Pennsylvania Department of Aging, c/o Master Plan, 555 Walnut St., 5th Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17101.