Released: February 22, 2024
The Delaware County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA) announced this week that the 30-day public comment period has begun following the release of the preliminary draft of Aging Our Way, PA: A Plan for Lifelong Independence. The 10-year State-based strategic plan, a key initiative of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and developed by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging over the past nine months, is designed to establish priorities, strategies, and tactics to promote health, well-being, and quality of life for all Pennsylvanians over the next decade and beyond.
The detailed master plan emphasizes a comprehensive approach to aging, with a focus on enhancing accessibility to healthcare services, affordable housing, and transportation, as well as increasing opportunities for social engagement and community involvement.
In all, the master plan identified detailed priorities, strategies, and tactics that aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for the aging population of Pennsylvania. These elements of the master plan are designed to address the multifaceted needs of older adults, ensuring they have the resources and support necessary to live vibrant, independent lives.
Hundreds of Delaware County residents contributed to the development of the master plan over the past year through participation in both virtual and in-person listening sessions organized by COSA. These sessions were instrumental in gathering valuable insights and suggestions, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life for all Pennsylvanians navigating the aging process.
“COSA was eager to ensure Delaware County voices contributed to this much-needed plan that promises to safeguard and improve the quality of life of our seniors,” said Delaware County Office of Services for the Aging Director Barbara Nicolardi. “The demographic shift, led by the aging Baby Boomer population, demands that we take a fresh look at how we support our older residents.
Aging Our Way, PA also prepares the Commonwealth for a larger, longer-living older adult population and is designed to respond to changing needs, shifting priorities and available resources to ensure that older Pennsylvanians have the resources and support necessary to live independently and with dignity in their communities.
Aging Our Way, PA incorporates eight 'Domains of Livability' that stem from the World Health Organization's (WHO) age-friendly framework, designed to assist communities in enhancing livability for older adults. This comprehensive approach addresses key facets of community life that significantly influence the well-being, engagement, and safety of seniors.
The eight domains include: outdoor spaces and buildings, transportation, housing, social participation, respect and social inclusion, civic participation and employment, communication and information, and community support and health services. These domains universally serve as a foundation for creating environments that support aging with dignity and independence.
PUBLIC COMMENT DUE BY MARCH 20
The public comment process is designed to ensure that the voices of Pennsylvania's residents directly inform the final version of the Aging Our Way, PA plan.
The 30-day public comment period is an opportunity for residents, service providers, caregivers, and stakeholders across Pennsylvania to contribute their perspectives, experiences, and suggestions to refine and improve the final plan. COSA encourages all interested parties to participate in this crucial dialogue to help shape the future of aging in Pennsylvania, ensuring that the state remains a place where people can age with grace, dignity, and independence.
Public comment will run from Tuesday, February 20 through Wednesday, March 20, 2024. Residents interested in providing public comment can do so by email at agingplan@pa.gov or by mail at:
Aging Our Way, PA
555 Walnut Street, 5th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101
In drafting this plan, the Commonwealth is committing to a future in which Pennsylvanians have the resources needed to continue to be vital, active, and respected members of our communities.
For more information about the Aging Our Way, PA plan, visit the Department of Aging's dedicated website at Aging.PA.Gov/MasterPlan.