Roundtable planned around Illinois to discuss aging issues

(The Center Square) – As Illinois’ population continues to get older, leaders from the state Department of Aging are developing a framework to improve the quality of life for older adults.

Illinois aging agencies will be holding a series of roundtable discussions around the state to help shape the future of policymaking for the state’s older population.

According to 2020 Census data, Illinois’ 65+ population is now over 16% and growing, with higher numbers in rural areas. During a Governor’s Rural Affairs Council (GRAC) webinar, Sandy Pastore with Illinois Healthcare and Family Services said the 85+ population has exploded.

“For a long time and I think it’s still true, the age 85 and older is the fastest growing age group of our population,” said Pastore.

Pastore said many older Illinoisans are not aware of the services available to them from the state, and the roundtable discussion will help the situation.

“We found that our services have a low visibility rate among older adults and family caregivers across the state, so we want to increase that visibility,” said Pastore.

Liz Vogt, senior policy advisor with the Illinois Department of Aging, said the agency is trying to use technology to help senior citizens.

“We are trying to bridge that digital divide by providing tablets and hotspots for internet access to older adults so that they can do more FaceTime or telehealth visits,” said Vogt.

The agency found that overwhelmingly, older adults want to “age in place” in their home and community rather than moving to a nursing facility.

Several roundtable discussions are scheduled for September, including in Quincy. Springfield and Peoria.