The Aging and Adult Services Agency (AASA) of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has released a new plan detailing how the state hopes to support Michigan’s aging population through the fiscal year 2023.

The 2021-2023 Michigan State Plan on Aging details the goals MDHHS hopes to accomplish for Michigan’s aging population over the next few years, as well as the methods to be utilized to achieve those goals. AASA and MDHHS will work to ensure the well-being of Michiganders aged 60 and over.

“This state plan builds on the strengths of Michigan’s aging network and aligns with its mission to deliver services in a person-centered, cost-effective way that best meets people’s needs,” the report reads.

According to the report, Michigan’s over-60 population totaled 1.8 million people in 2010; since then, that number has grown to 2.4 million, or 24.4% of the state’s overall population. As the aging population continues to grow, new and innovative leadership and policy are needed to best support Michiganders as they advance in age.

The cornerstone of the report is a set of four goals, each designed to address the changing needs of aging residents.

• Increase information and awareness of aging services networks to ensure aging residents and caregivers have access to services that are appropriate for their individual needs.

• Promote connectivity for seniors through methods such as increased transportation options and internet access.

• Increase the number of qualified senior care professionals and ensure they are prepared to work with aging residents with different physical, emotional and cultural needs.

• Utilize programs, services and resources to allow older adults to make decisions on their aging, and to age in place when possible.

Strategies for achieving the four goals include increasing and reallocating funding for certain services, improved workforce training and increasing access to health, wellness, transportation and connectivity options for aging adults.

The plan also details some of the challenges that emerged for Michigan’s aging population because of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as what the state is doing to help mitigate some of these challenges. CMF members are working to combat these issues, such as social isolation and lack of knowledge of COVID-19 resources for seniors.

The plan provides insights for funders beyond those who are specifically focused on supporting our aging population.

“The pandemic has underscored our senior population's vulnerability and the domino effect it has had on schools, neighborhoods and the workplace,” Vincent Tilford, executive director of the Luella Hannan Memorial Foundation, chair of CMF’s Michigan Grantmakers in Aging affinity group and CMF trustee said. “With nearly one out of every four Michigan residents over the age of 60, the state's new report on aging is a must-read not only for foundations who work in the field of aging but also for philanthropic organizations concerned about community health and well-being.”

Want more?

Read ASAA’s 2021-2023 Michigan State Plan on Aging.