State budget sends more funding for aging programs

(Harrisburg) — The new state budget is putting more money toward programs for the commonwealth’s aging population.

The spending plan includes an additional $50 million for initiatives that support older adults.

State Secretary of Aging Brian Duke says the funding is necessary as a larger percentage of Pennsylvanians reaches retirement age.

“We have an ever-growing population,” Duke explains. “By 2030, one-in-four of us will be over the age of 65. Recognizing that population growth and the growth in need as we look at chronic illness trends and the services we deliver, I think this budget is an important commitment to Pennsylvania.”

The additional dollars will support programs for in-home personal care and home-delivered meals.

A portion will also support Area Agencies on Aging and provide grants for improvements to state senior centers.

The Department of Aging also receives nearly half-a-billion dollars in funding from the Pennsylvania Lottery.