Ocean County will launch a new plan on June 23 aimed at making it easier for older residents to live safely, independently and comfortably in their communities.
The Age-Friendly Ocean County plan will guide county programs and partnerships through 2030. It focuses on everyday needs such as housing, transportation, health care, help for caregivers, social activities and access to information about available services.
It is the first countywide plan of its kind in New Jersey.
Nearly one out of every three Ocean County residents is 60 or older, making the county home to one of the state’s largest senior populations. The plan is also intended to help people with disabilities, family caregivers and relatives who assist aging loved ones.
“Ocean County is proud to lead New Jersey in developing a roadmap that responds to the needs and priorities of our residents,” said Ocean County Commissioner Robert S. Arace, liaison to the Ocean County Office of Senior Services.
“This plan reflects the voices of our communities and demonstrates what can be accomplished when organizations and residents work together toward a common goal.”
The plan was developed by the Ocean County Board of Commissioners, the Ocean County Office of Senior Services and Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County.
It is described as a “multisector” plan because it brings together local government, health care providers, nonprofit groups, businesses and community organizations. Instead of having each group work separately, the plan calls for them to coordinate their efforts.
Ocean County joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities in 2023. Since then, organizers have gathered input from thousands of residents about the challenges they face and the services they need.
The plan was shaped by more than 8,000 survey responses, along with interviews, focus groups, public meetings, town halls and feedback from community organizations.
“This plan represents the collective voice of residents, caregivers, community organizations, health care providers and local government,” said Maria La Face, director of the Ocean County Office of Senior Services.
“It provides a roadmap for action and strengthens our commitment to helping residents age with dignity, independence and purpose.”
The plan also supports the broader goals of New Jersey’s Age-Friendly Blueprint, which encourages communities to prepare for a growing senior population.
Dr. Kathleen Cullinen of Rutgers Cooperative Extension said the project shows what communities can accomplish when residents and organizations work toward the same goal.
The June 23 launch event will include remarks from county and community leaders, recognition of the groups that helped develop the plan and the official public release of the document.
Residents can watch the event online at go.rutgers.edu/agefriendlyoc2026.
