The Ohio Department of Aging develops a strategic framework, required by the federal Older Americans Act, to provide leadership that improves and promotes quality of life and personal choice for older Ohioans, adults with disabilities and their families and caregivers. The most recent framework, or state plan, covers federal fiscal years 2019 through 2022.

The plan is built upon a comprehensive statewide needs assessment that provided a clear perspective of older adult needs. We found that the most significant gaps represent basic needs that can interfere with independence and ability to age in place. The plan contains goals, strategies and objectives organized into five primary focus areas: Access to information and advocacy services, population health, caregiving, civic engagement and aging in place.