About aging Our Way
The population of older Oklahomans is projected to increase 21.3% by 2034. For the first time ever, adults 65 and over are expected to outnumber children in Oklahoma.
That's where Aging Our Way comes in. Oklahoma Human Services created a state-wide initiative to ensure every Oklahoman can age on their own terms. Whether you're 25 or 85, this plan is for you.
A Multisector Plan on Aging is a new approach that brings public, private and other organizations together to improve the lives of aging Oklahomans. Aging Our Way: Oklahoma’s Multisector Plan on Aging (Aging Our Way Oklahoma) looks ten years into the future. It coordinates efforts at the community level across our state to achieve our goals and benefit the population as it ages. Further, these goals will center on our ability to allow every aging individual to live healthy lives on their terms and with the support and resources they need.
This impending demographic change will create a ripple effect across our state. As Oklahomans age, they will leave the workforce in higher numbers than ever, changing how employers hire. Older Oklahomans will need aging services, like home-delivered meals, in a volume our systems cannot currently support. Changes like these will change our society. Aging Our Way Oklahoma is our effort to ensure we change with it.
As the population of older Oklahomans increases, so will the need to provide effective and efficient resources focused on ensuring healthy living. Aging Our Way Oklahoma will focus on creating strategies that help ensure mechanisms are in place to cater to the growing population’s needs and wants.
Who This Helps
Oklahomans Aged 60+
You have contributed so much to our state, and we are here to support you. Find resources and services tailored to your needs.
Caregivers of Older Oklahomans
We understand the challenges you face. Discover tools and information to support you in your caregiving journey, along with your loved ones.
Oklahomans Aged 18-59
Aging might seem far off, but it affects us all. Learn how to contribute to an age-friendly Oklahoma and prepare for your future.
The Plan
Oklahoma Human Services led a collaborative effort to create a comprehensive plan called Aging Our Way: Oklahoma’s Multisector Plan on Aging to prepare the state for this impending — and significant — demographic shift.
This ten-year plan examines crucial areas like housing, health care, transportation, and technology to help every Oklahoman have the resources to live healthy lives on their own terms.
Our research has identified four primary challenges related to aging in Oklahoma:
Financial Security
Many Oklahomans do not have enough money to care for themselves after retirement.
Housing
Older adults need affordable housing options that meet their specific needs.
Services
As more people need services, better resource alignment will help the government and other organizations keep up with demand.
Access to Information
Individuals often do not know how to access available services
State of Aging in Oklahoma: 2023 Report
The report provides information about the current state of Oklahoma’s aging population and the challenges the Aging Our Way Oklahoma plan will address. It includes the results of the Listening Sessions and Statewide Survey conducted by Oklahoma Human Services in May and July 2023. The Plan’s Steering and Advisory Committees used the report to help decide the first initiatives for the Aging Our Way Oklahoma plan.
Get Involved
We are looking for people to serve as Ambassadors for Aging Our Way in their communities. If you care about the health and well-being of older Oklahomans, you may be qualified to become an Aging Our Way Ambassador. We are recruiting people from cities and rural areas to represent our state’s diversity.
Ready to Make a Difference?
There are many other ways you can help, including:
- Volunteer in your community
- Spread awareness on social media
- Participate in local events
- Advocate for age-friendly policies
Want to Stay Informed?
If you want to learn more about how you can spread the word and impact your community, email cap.mpa@okdhs.org.
Resources
Be A Neighbor Network
Be a Neighbor is a valuable resource offered by Oklahoma Human Services that is designed to strengthen collaboration and establish connections between Oklahomans in need with local nonprofits, faith-based groups, tribes and community organizations. Through the Be a Neighbor portal, you can search specific needs (food, clothing, housing, etc.) and find organizations in your local community offering those resources and services.
