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SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN — Two area agencies are hoping older adults in southwest Michigan will lend their voices to a conversation to coordinate efforts to serve Michigan’s aging population.

Next week, the Area Agency on Aging and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services will host a virtual conversation about aging in Michigan. The Zoom/conference call meeting will take place from 10 to 11:30 a.m. May 26.

Organizers said the conversation is meant help create the blueprint for the upcoming State Plan on Aging. This plan is part of the Older Michiganian’s Act of 1981 and is drafted every three years to ensure Michigan’s priorities are on track in supporting the health and well-being of Michigan’s older adult population. Feedback from the meeting will be used to help the Commission on Aging outline coordination and advocacy activities undertaken to meet the needs of older adults.

“Thanks to these grass roots conversations and local planning efforts spearheaded by Region IV Area Agency on Aging, local systems for seniors have blossomed and developed into vital local programs for families and area older adults such as AAA Care Management and Custom Care, Senior Nutrition Service’s Meals on Wheels, Harbor House and Autumn House Adult Day Services and PACE, Programs of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly,” said Julee Laurent, marketing and communications coordinator.

The virtual conversation is open to any older adult living in Berrien, Cass or Van Buren counites.  Attendance is limited to 50 people. RSVP is required. To RSVP, contact cooperk6@michigan.gov or (517) 241-4100.