Governor DeWine, Ohio Department of Aging Announce Launch of Ohio Aging Compass

COLUMBUS, Ohio - As Ohio recognizes Older Americans Month and Older Ohioans Month this May, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Aging (AGE) Director Ursel J. McElroy today announced the launch of the Ohio Aging Compass, a free, centralized, easy-to-navigate platform, consolidating Ohio's aging-related resources, tools, data, and long-term care information.

"The Ohio Aging Compass is a major step forward in transparency and accessibility for older adults and their families," said Governor DeWine. "Ohioans told us they wanted a simpler, more streamlined way to navigate aging resources, and we listened. This new platform reflects our commitment to ensuring Ohio remains the best place to age in the nation."

The Ohio Aging Compass integrates three tools:

• The Long-Term Care Quality Navigator was launched in 2024 as part of Governor DeWine's Nursing Home Quality and Accountability Task Force. It allows users to search for and compare nursing homes and assisted living facilities across Ohio.
• The Healthy Aging Resource Hub is a one-stop shop for healthy aging information, events, and supportive programs and services.
• The Aging Data Explorer is an interactive dashboard tracking the state's progress on key aging priorities across more than 80 metrics.

"The Ohio Aging Compass is a gateway to aging well," said Director McElroy. "It was built with and for Ohioans. The Compass brings together practical tools and real-world resources into one accessible platform so that every Ohioan can more easily find the services, supports, and care they need. It also represents a major step forward in how we use technology and data to increase transparency and accountability."

Input from partners across the state informed every stage of development of the Ohio Aging Compass. At the Governor's Policy Summit on Healthy Aging, more than 200 leaders contributed their expertise and feedback. Additionally, perspectives were gathered from residents in all 88 counties through statewide surveys, listening sessions, and focus groups, ensuring that every corner of Ohio was represented. Across all regions, Ohioans stressed the need for a single, trusted place to find clear, comprehensive information about aging services and supports.

"This is Age-Friendly Ohio in action," said Jenny Carlson, AARP Ohio Director. "Tools like the Ohio Aging Compass help individuals, families, and communities make informed decisions and navigate their path with confidence. When people can easily find the resources that fit their lives, they have more choice-and more control-over how they plan and live at every stage of life."

With the launch of the Ohio Aging Compass, the state will continue gathering feedback and expanding its features to support healthy aging at home, in the community, and across every region of Ohio.

The Ohio Aging Compass is now live at Compass.Aging.Ohio.gov

About AGE - The Ohio Department of Aging serves and advocates for the needs of Ohioans age 60 and older, as well as their families, caregivers and communities. Programs include home and community based long-term supports and services, as well as initiatives to promote health and wellness throughout the lifespan. Visit https://www.aging.ohio.gov.