Representative Troy Announces Ohio Scholars in Aging Program Application Period Now Open

COLUMBUS – State Representative Daniel Troy (D-Willowick) today announced that the 2024-2025 Ohio Scholars in Aging program application period is now open. This program is a partnership with the Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) and the Ohio Association of Gerontology and Education (OAGE).

Ohio undergraduate and graduate students of relevant academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The program is an opportunity to learn about aging-related policy making, grow a professional network, and gain career knowledge and skills in the field of aging. Students will complete an internship or a community project, attend ODA and OAGE events, and make a presentation for state leaders.

Participants who complete all program requirements will each earn a $2K stipend.

“I am pleased to announce that the application window is now open for this workforce development program that engages youth with Ohio’s aging issues. As our senior population continues to grow, retirees will be dependent on a decreasing number of working age people to assist them. This program helps the state address the needs of our ever-growing population of senior citizens. I encourage college students, especially from my district, to apply,” said Rep. Troy.

There is no direct cost to students to participate. 10 students will be selected to participate in the program. The deadline to apply is Friday, November 8, 2024.

A survey of last year’s participants showed that 90% said the program influenced their career decision to work with older adults. Additionally, all participants reported that they were “very satisfied” with their experience in the program and would recommend it to others.

Each student participant must invest at least 45 hours on their internship or project. Also, participants must attend two full days of in-person learning sessions, two partial days of virtual learning sessions, attend an all-day experience at their local Area Agency on Aging (AAA), and participate in a poster presentation session at the OAGE Conference in March 2025 at Bowling Green State University.

“I believe that every senior citizen deserves the right to retire with dignity. The mark of enlightened societies throughout the history of our world are those that honor their elders with the thanks and respect that they deserve,” said Rep. Troy.

According to a University of Miami study, one in five Ohioans will be over the age of 65 by the year 2030. Almost every Ohio county is expected to see an increase in the share of population of that age group. Baby boomers now make up the largest generation of older adults in US history.

Representative Troy sits on the Ohio Elder Abuse Commission. He has also introduced and passed legislation that increases penalties for failure to report elder abuse. Representative Troy was, and continues to be, a vocal proponent for increasing the Medicaid reimbursement rate to help recruit and properly compensate direct service providers that address the care needs of our seniors. 

For more information or to apply, visit www.aging.ohio.gov/scholarsinaging