SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WIFR) – Governor JB Pritzker signs an executive order creating the position of Chief Planning Officer in the Illinois Department of Aging.
This new position will lead the development of a multi-year, cross-sector plan that will serve as a 10-year blueprint to support healthy aging in Illinois. It will also establish clear goals for evaluating public and private progress toward this goal.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2030, about a quarter of Illinois’ population will be 60 years of age or older.
This plan aims to proactively prepare government, nonprofit and private organizations to meet the housing, transportation, health, safety, financial and social welfare needs of older adults.
The Chief Planning Officer will meet with a task force of more than a dozen government agencies to collaborate on these services.
“Caring for our older citizens of Illinois is a responsibility my administration does not take lightly. That’s why this plan will examine every aspect of the aging and care experience and work toward comprehensive, holistic solutions to gaps in care or barriers to access,” says Governor JB Pritzker. “We know it’s not just about supporting older adults, but also considering the needs of caregivers and the complex needs of people with disabilities, and this plan will ensure no one is left behind.”
This plan involves a development process lasting about a year and a half, which will reportedly include several opportunities for feedback from the public.
The Chief Planning Officer will submit the plan to the Governor by December 31, 2025.
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