Aging Services
The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) launched the Aging Services Division in October 2022. This work responds to a major population change in Oklahoma. Soon, there will be more adults age 65 and older than children under 18. Aging Services helps prepare Oklahoma’s behavioral health system to better serve older adults through age-informed policies, practices, and partnerships.
Our Guiding Vision
All Oklahomans have the opportunity to live and age with behavioral health. This includes physical health, emotional well-being, social connection, and purpose.
Behavioral Health Forum on Aging
The Behavioral Health Forum on Aging was established in April 2023 to help guide Aging Services work across Oklahoma. The forum brings together leaders from public and private organizations statewide and was originally chaired by national aging expert and advocate Karen Orsi. The forum grew out of Oklahoma’s Older Adult Behavioral Health Policy Academy and plays a key role in the Oklahoma Older Adult Behavioral Health State Plan. The focus is to build and expand age-informed policies and practices that improve behavioral health outcomes for the older adults of today and tomorrow.
Supporting Healthy Aging Across Oklahoma
Aging Services focuses on helping people understand how aging and behavioral health are connected. This work supports respectful, age-informed care for older adults across Oklahoma. Through training and community presentations, Aging Services helps professionals and communities better serve older adults and promote positive, accurate views of aging.
Aging Services also partners with community organizations to expand access to proven programs that support mental and physical health.
Working with Oklahoma’s Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, Aging Services is expanding access to PEARLS. This is a community-based, skill-building program that helps older adults manage and reduce feelings of depression and isolation. PEARLS is especially helpful for people who may have limited access to mental health care.
In partnership with CCBHCs and the Oklahoma State Department of Health, Aging Services also supports Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance and Walk with Ease. All three of these programs are Arthritis Appropriate, Evidence-Based Interventions that support overall well-being.
Alisa West Cahill, LSW-Adm.
Aging Manager
