The Department of Aging will hold public hearings this month across the state to discuss the 2012-2016 State Plan on Aging, which defines the strategy and goals for programs and services provided to older Pennsylvanians.
 
Secretary of Aging Brian Duke  says officials have been gathering information throughout the year from strategic planning sessions and focus groups comprised of consumers and subject-matter experts to help develop a plan that meets the needs of the state’s ever growing older adult population.
 
Public review and comments will be used to formulate the department’s final plan, which will be submitted to the federal Administration on Aging in August.
 
The federal government requires states to update these plans every four years.
 
Residents, local government officials and interested organizations may submit comments until June 29, 2012. Individuals who wish to offer comments at a public hearing should pre-register. For people who cannot attend a public hearing, written comments can be mailed to:
 
David Gingerich, Acting Deputy Secretary
PA Department of Aging
555 Walnut Street, Fifth Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101.
 
For more information on the 2012-2016 State Plan on Aging, please visit the
Department of Aging online at www.aging.state.pa.us or call 717-425-5719.