The Ohio Association of Gerontology and Education (OAGE), through its Policy & Legislative Affairs Committee, recently submitted comments during the public comment period for the Ohio Department of Aging’s draft 2027–2030 State Plan on Aging (SPOA).
OAGE commended the Ohio Department of Aging for its inclusive planning process and the development of strategic priorities addressing critical issues affecting older Ohioans, including caregiver supports, community services, healthcare, transportation, financial well-being, food access, and safe and accessible housing. A central focus of OAGE’s comments was the critical role of higher education in developing and sustaining Ohio’s aging-services workforce. OAGE recommended that the State Plan formally recognize OAGE as a strategic partner in statewide workforce development and acknowledge gerontology, long-term care administration, and other aging-related academic programs as essential components of Ohio’s workforce strategy.
The comments also highlighted the impact of educational and experiential learning opportunities, including the Ohio Scholars in Aging Program, which has prepared 166 students from 20 Ohio colleges and universities since 2013. OAGE noted that these pathways help build a pipeline of professionals and future leaders who can contribute to the sustainability and innovation of Ohio’s aging-services system. OAGE’s recommendations call for stronger partnerships among the Ohio Department of Aging, institutions of higher education, and aging-services providers; greater support for developing gerontological competencies; and initiatives that encourage graduates to enter and remain in Ohio’s aging-services workforce, particularly in rural, underserved, and provider-shortage communities.
Through this advocacy effort, OAGE continues to elevate the importance of education, workforce development, and gerontology expertise in shaping a strong and sustainable future for aging services across Ohio.