Franklin County launches "Aging Forward" plan as county officials outline services and stark demographics

Franklin County officials used the county's first "State of Our Seniors" event to launch an "Aging Forward" planning effort and highlight the scale of services for older residents.

Director Wingo opened the program by describing seniors as a "living legacy" and saying the county's goal is to help people "age with dignity and independence." Commissioner Kevin Boyce and County Administrator Ken Wilson emphasized that managing Central Ohio's growth must include services for older residents.

The Office on Aging released 2025 program figures during the event. John, the office's data analyst, reported that the office served 14,794 seniors across senior options, caregiver, kinship and home-repair programs. He said seniors were 65% female, 49% non-white and 10% veterans; the median age reported was 74. John also cited operational metrics: more than 700 home repairs completed, 5,200 emergency response systems provided, 1,300 pieces of durable medical equipment distributed, 1.6 million transportation miles and 2.3 million meals delivered in 2025. "14,794," John said, repeating the total to underscore the scope of services.

Officials repeatedly flagged demographics as a driving reason for the new countywide plan. The county's presenters noted that an estimated 38 people in Franklin County turn 60 each day and that the senior population is projected to grow substantially through the decade. "Aging Forward is planning ahead instead of reacting late," Director Wingo said, describing the initiative as a blueprint that will collect community input via a survey and produce action steps for housing, abuse prevention, caregiver supports and reducing isolation.

Program leads described specific services: Barb Sullivan, assistant director of senior options, outlined respite and adult day programs, caregiver support and kinship assistance for grandparents and relative caregivers. Brandon Bailey, supervisor for Adult Protective Services, described APS's work to assess and mitigate abuse, neglect or exploitation among residents 60 and older, including referrals for guardianship and coordination with courts. Patrick Glenn, home-repair program administrator, said repairs help seniors remain safely in their homes and avoid facility care.

Officials encouraged attendees to complete the Aging Forward survey and to visit resource tables; boxed lunches were available for seniors at the end of the program. Mayor Ginther (as introduced later in the program) praised the county-city partnerships and highlighted the Fran Ryan Center as a local hub for senior programming.

The Office on Aging said the Aging Forward effort will include a community survey and recommendations intended both for the county's internal programs and for how residents can help seniors age in place. Staff asked participants to sign up for newsletters and follow-up opportunities to stay involved in implementation.