Ohio Designated as 13th AARP Age-Friendly State

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today served as the opening speaker for the Governor's Policy Summit on Healthy Aging.

The one-day summit, hosted by the Ohio Department of Aging (AGE), brought together Ohio's foremost thought leaders, policy makers, and changemakers to help shape the state's strategy to support healthy aging.

"Older adults are the heart of our communities. They enrich our lives with their unique experiences, their wisdom, and their perspectives. I know firsthand the immense value that older Ohioans bring to our towns, our cities, and our economy," said Governor DeWine. "We are ensuring that older Ohioans are included in our 'Heart of it All' mission. We are not only celebrating the contributions of older Ohioans, but we are investing in their future, as well as the future of the state."

Governor DeWine and AGE Director Ursel J. McElroy also received proclamations, designating Ohio as American Association of Retired Persons' (AARP) 13th Age-Friendly state.

The Age-Friendly designation, awarded by AARP in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), recognizes states and communities committed to being great places to grow older. Ohio already has 36 AARP-certified Age-Friendly Communities.

"This is another milestone in the administration's vision of making Ohio the best place to age in the nation," said Governor DeWine. "We are honored to receive this designation.

"The services and programs we have unveiled over the last several years are taking our roadmap and putting it into action," Director McElroy said. "I could not be prouder to receive this designation from AARP, and I look forward to continuing our progress to make sure all Ohioans can age comfortably in their communities."

The Governor's Policy Summit on Healthy Aging featured speakers Dr. Thomas Keane and Gary Bacher. Dr. Keane is assistant secretary for technology policy at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Bacher is the chief strategy officer at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Held at the Hyatt Regency Columbus, the event included additional guest speakers and policy sessions covering preparing for complex care, shaping systems for lifelong wellness, enabling transformation through technology, and more.

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.