10/01/2026

Ohio’s Aging Network Shines at USAging Annual Conference

In July, o4a staff joined many of our Ohio AAA members in San Diego for the USAging Annual Conference, connecting with aging professionals from across the country to share ideas, learn about emerging innovations, and explore the future of aging and community living.

We were especially proud to see Ohio’s aging network recognized on the national stage. USAging annually identifies and showcases members’ innovative and successful programs to encourage their replication by other agencies. The Aging Achievement Awards highlight successful programs in the field, and the Aging Innovations Awards honor the most innovative initiatives. Click here to view the full Awards Showcase and learn more about Ohio's programs. 

Aging INNOVATIONS Award Winners:

• ELDER ABUSE PREVENTION: Equipping the Front Line: Empowering Professionals to Address Opioid Risk in Older Adults, Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. (AAA5)
• HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS: Shallow Subsidy Pilot Program, Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (AAA6). Executive Director Katie White, pictured below with USAging Board President, o4a Board President, and Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging CEO Duana Patton and Administration for Community Living Deputy Administrator Mary Lazare, was recognized with third place in the USAging Aging Innovations Awards overall for the agency’s outstanding work.

Aging ACHIEVEMENT Award Winners:

• COMMUNITY PLANNING AND LIVABLE COMMUNITIES: Building Senior Center Learning Communities, Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio (AAA4)
• SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT: Medicare Monday, Area Agency on Aging District 7 (AAA7)

Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities (AAA10B) was named a Phase 1 winner of the Administration for Community Living’s Health at Home Challenge, recognizing innovative work to strengthen partnerships between health care and community-based services. 

The conference was a valuable opportunity to celebrate Ohio’s accomplishments, learn from colleagues across the country, and bring new ideas and inspiration home to the communities we serve. Congratulations to all of our Ohio colleagues on these well-deserved honors!