Oklahoma Gears Up for Growing Senior Population

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Comprehensive Plan Unveiled to Address Senior Needs

Oklahoma is getting ready for a significant demographic shift. A new plan unveiled by the Oklahoma Human Services (OHS) addresses the anticipated surge in the senior population, projected to outnumber children within the next decade.

The “Multisector Plan on Aging” is the result of two years of collaboration. OHS actively sought input from stakeholders across the state, including healthcare providers, tribal nations, and other state agencies.

The plan also incorporates findings from a report on the state of aging in Oklahoma and a survey of Oklahoma seniors.

With over 650,000 residents aged 60 and older in 2020, Oklahoma’s senior population is expected to grow by 21% in the coming decade.

Dr. Deborah Shropshire, OHS executive director, acknowledges the state’s current unpreparedness for this demographic shift.

“There already are difficulties for seniors to connect with the services they need,” Dr. Shropshire explains.

She highlights challenges in accessing healthcare, human services, and even social connections. While some efforts have been made, Dr. Shropshire emphasizes the need for a “concerted effort” over the next decade.

The plan outlines 13 goals and proposes strategies for achieving them in collaboration with various partners. Jeromy Buchanan, OHS Director of Community Living, Aging and Protective Services, identifies housing, transportation (particularly in rural areas), and difficulty finding necessary services as key challenges faced by seniors.

“We want people to be equipped,” Buchanan emphasizes.

The plan aims to empower community partners to effectively guide seniors towards available services, ensuring their needs are met.

The plan goes beyond addressing immediate needs. It also tackles long-term challenges such as promoting independent living for seniors, improving transportation access, and fostering connections between older and younger generations.

Workforce issues are also addressed. Recognizing the increasing number of seniors re-entering the workforce due to rising living costs, the plan encourages businesses to adopt age-friendly practices that support senior workers. Additionally, the plan acknowledges the need for more healthcare providers specializing in senior care. Strategies to support recruitment, education, job placement, and job training are included to address this workforce gap.

Buchanan acknowledges that OHS cannot achieve these goals alone. The plan leverages the expertise of various partners to ensure a successful implementation. With a clear roadmap in place, the agency is ready to move forward.

“This is a celebration,” Buchanan declares. He emphasizes the importance of taking action, stating, “This is where the rubber meets the road, where the blood, sweat, and tears are going to create a better Oklahoma.”

The “Multisector Plan on Aging” demonstrates Oklahoma’s proactive approach to preparing for its changing demographics. By addressing the needs and challenges faced by its senior population, Oklahoma is paving the way for a future where all residents can thrive.

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