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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 22, 2006

Ohio Department of Aging Observes Older Americans Month With Launch of New Web Site

COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Aging has launched a new, expanded Web site for older Ohioans and the family members, professionals and policy makers who care for and serve them. The launch coincides with Older Americans Month, observed nationally each May.

"One of the most important things maturing Ohioans should have at their disposal is information," said Merle Grace Kearns, Director of the Department. "Whether you are healthy and active or you need some help with day-to-day living, our new Web site will guide you to valuable services, supports and benefits."

The site, available at www.goldenbuckeye.com or aging.ohio.gov, features a bold, clean look and specialized content areas for older Ohioans and their families, service providers and other professionals in the field of aging, and policy makers such as local government officials and state legislators. The site provides in-depth information about the Department and the aging network as well as general information about outreach and aging issues.

The site leads and supports other Department of Aging Web initiatives, including:

• Ohio Long-term Care Consumer Guide (www.ltcohio.org), which provides general and regulatory information about nursing homes and residential care facilities in the state;
• BenefitsCheckUp.org, an interactive questionnaire that links individuals to benefits and services for which they may qualify; and
• ConnectMeOhio.org, a searchable statewide database of services and supports for older Ohioans and people with disabilities.

The Ohio Department of Aging serves and represents two million Ohioans age 60 and older. The Department advocates for the needs of all older citizens, with an emphasis on improving the quality of life for older Ohioans, helping them live active, healthy and independent lives, and promoting positive attitudes toward aging and older people.