Oregon residents are getting older. How can the state prepare?

By 2040 about 78 million Americans will be 65 or older, according to the Administration on Aging. In Oregon, lower birth rates combined with longer life expectancies means that Oregon’s population is rapidly growing older. The shift in population affects sectors like healthcare and affordable housing.

AGE+ is a nonprofit that advocates for older Oregonians. It’s pushing for a statewide task force to plan for Oregon’s changing demographics -- a shift that many of the state's rural areas are already seeing. In 2023, South Morrow County Seniors Matter created a meal program for older residents. Now, the organization continues providing free weekly lunches to adults 60 and older along with classes and help navigating resources.

Stephanie Hooper is the president and CEO of AGE+. Jerry Conklin is the board chair of South Morrow County Seniors Matter. They join us with more about what an influx of aging residents could mean for the state.