HARRISBURG – Gov. Edward G. Rendell has proclaimed May “Older Pennsylvanians Month” to celebrate the contributions of older adults living in the state.
“Pennsylvania has nearly 2.4 million residents over the age of 60, and that number is expected to increase to more than 3 million by 2020,” Rendell said. “Older adults continue to help enrich our state by using their experience to continue working, volunteer and engage in civic activities.”
Pennsylvania is embracing the theme of the U.S. Administration on Aging’s Older Americans Month, “Making Choices for a Healthier Future,” by preparing programs and services to meet the needs of a rapidly growing older population.
“The Department of Aging and the 52 area agencies on aging continue to expand awareness of long-term living options and prescription drug assistance,” said Rendell. “They are working to improve and expand the role of senior community centers, to ensure quality at the end-of-life and to increase opportunities for community participation, civic engagement, employment and educational opportunities.”
Now underway is the Governor’s 2020 Vision Project, a multi-agency strategic response to the projected growth in the state’s older population. The study will identify strategies to meet the demands population changes will place on existing programs, the need for new or expanded programs and services, and the resources necessary to pay for these programs and services. The project will also evaluate the impact of the aging population on the economy, workforce, and tax base and on the social service, health care, and public infrastructure of the state.