The Howard County Office on Aging and Independence’s mission is to make it easier for older residents, veterans, and persons with disabilities living in Maryland to find the resources they need to remain independent as they grow older. The Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) is committed to a “No Wrong Door” approach wherein citizens, their caregivers, their families, and others living in Howard County are able to get the information and assistance that they need.
Howard County residents and seniors can use the OAI as an easy way to navigate to the Maryland Access Point (MAP) online portal, which allows visitors to learn more about programs and services available in their community. Curated by the Maryland Department of Aging, the website allows users to learn about community services such as assisted living, meals, and medication management resources by using its Explore feature, searching its directory for specific needs at any time, connecting with others, and asking questions about programs and options. There is also a Plan and Prepare section that puts residents in touch with certified counselors who can work with individuals to make customized plans based on their unique needs and situation.
Every year, the OAI assists with the publication of a new edition of the “Howard County Resource Guide,” which is a comprehensive but consolidated guide for older adults, their caregivers, and other residents who are looking for related programs and resources. The guide organizations programs by topic, need, and audience and provides detailed information about various services, how to contact them, and how to learn more about them.
In addition to information on a variety of programs, the guide shares messages from local professionals and officials that focus on senior issues, information related to healthcare and other service providers, and other local topics of interest. This free guide can be sent to your home or community meeting places, and is also available online.
The OAI also offers or coordinates a variety of art, fitness, and counting education classes at senior resident centers throughout the community and at the Ellicott City 50+ Fitness Center.
With its organized trips to the Kennedy Center, one-on-one technology assistance, arts programs, 50+ sports programs, music, and more, the OAI has plenty of options for seniors and their families to stay active, connected, and educated.
The Howard County Office on Aging and Independence also features upcoming events and other news for residents, highlighting exciting opportunities to participate in events tailored for seniors. Examples include Stepping up Your Nutrition, the county’s nutrition, strength, and fall prevention program.
Residents can sign up for programs online, over the phone, or in person at the OAI office or host facility.
Another helpful resource is the OAI’s monthly 50+ Connection newsletter, which is available online and in print and is distributed through the Howard County Beacon. The newsletter provides information regarding services, events, and programs of interest for the county’s older adults. There are also interviews with local resource providers, upcoming events, and educational topics relevant to seniors.
Past issues and the current edition are available on the OAI website. You can also choose to subscribe to the newsletter by joining the email subscriber list and be the first to hear about upcoming events and programs.
As evidenced with the Howard County Office of Aging and Independence, Maryland is dedicated to supporting its seniors with a full range of services, programs, and events. Together, they make this part of the state a great place to live, retire, and continue growing and learning.