Aging is Changing, Howard is Ready for the Challenge

Howard is seeking applicants for 15-member Commission on Aging. 

According to a recent press release, Howard is seeking applicants to serve on a commission to promote successful aging for older adults in the county. The Commission’s work includes participating in community activities and advising the County Executive on policies, programs and practices that impact the health and wellbeing of older adults and their families. Additionally, the Commission provides advice and support to county agencies, non-profits, and other stakeholders working to create an equitable, livable, and accessible community for all older adults in Howard County.

As covered previously on the Conduit Street blog, aging has become an area residents and policymakers alike are concerned about. Maryland Secretary of Aging, Carol Roques, was discussing this issue with leaders in Washington County just this past spring. With longer life expectancy for the individuals in the age range most likely to need services, programs like Medicare will begin to experience shortfalls.

The fastest growing demographic in the 65-plus group are over the age of 85, said Roques. This is the period in seniors’ lives, she said, when people start to need service in order to be independent.

Places like Washington state have been exploring new concepts like an employee funded, long-term care insurance fund administered by the Washington Department of Social and Health Services. Howard will certainly be angling for creative solutions to tackle this growing problem. The press release outlines candidate requirements and expectations. Meetings are currently being held virtually. Interested residents should complete an application online and select “Commission on Aging” in the form.