The Illinois Department on Aging has unveiled a comprehensive 10-year strategy known as EngAging Illinois, aiming to enhance the well-being of older adults and their caregivers. Anticipating a significant increase in the state’s senior population by 2035, the plan spotlights priorities such as creating more livable communities, expanding access to healthcare, bolstering resources for caregivers, and tackling persistent inequalities. Officials say this initiative will serve as a roadmap to support the state’s aging residents, ensuring they have access to safer environments, better care, and greater social inclusion throughout the next decade.
“EngAging Illinois embodies the engagement and thoughtful people from across Illinois, representing the best of our state,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This bold plan reflects the priorities of the people we serve and the role that state government should play in creating an age-friendly Illinois. We all want to be part of a thriving, multigenerational society, and EngAging Illinois is a smart, strong step in that direction.”
“EngAging Illinois represents a bold first step and a blueprint for action,” said Mary Killough, Director of the Illinois Department on Aging. “This plan is about all of us, working together to create a state full of age-friendly cities, towns, and communities.”
“The future of aging in Illinois starts with acting on the Plan’s priorities now – and it starts with each of us,” said Michelle Hoersch, Chief Planning Officer at the Illinois Department on Aging. “Every sector, every community, every individual has a stake in this transformation. Together, we will make Illinois the gold standard for aging well.”
“EngAging Illinois will create the inclusive communities we will all benefit from, communities free from ageism and with access to a broad range of public and private programs, resources and support,” said Mary O’Donnell, President & CEO of RRF Foundation for Aging. “As a supporter of the effort to create this multisector plan, we are excited to join people throughout the state in this work to improve the quality of life of every older person in Illinois.”