It is estimated that by 2030, 1 in every 5 Americans will be over the age of 65. Counties will face many challenges as they work over the next several years to support these older adults. To learn more about this issue, local officials attended a winter conference session titled “Will the Boomers Bust Us?: A Reality Check.”  During this session, speakers discussed how Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) can continue to support older adults aging-in-place in Maryland and strategic planning for the sustainability of current programs.

Teja Rau, Chief of Long Term Services & Supports with the Department of Aging, spoke first providing a demographic overview of the aging population and a “portrait” of older adults. She also discussed the funding, structure and services provided through the AAAs, which incorporates the use of Maryland Access Point to locate services. Catherine Willis, the Director of Community Services for Queen Anne’s County discussed the important work of the AAAs and showed a video putting a “face” on the services provided. Madeline Morey, the Director of Citizen Services for Carroll County, followed offering a roadmap for the future. She expressed the importance of each jurisdiction identifying program results and setting benchmarks. Ms. Morey also suggested that jurisdictions identify partners who can assist with service delivery and the need for greater advocacy.

This session was sponsored by The Maryland Association of Area Agencies on Aging. The Honorable William Valentine, Commissioner, Allegany County, Maryland and MACo Board Member moderated the session.