Maine gov creates ‘Cabinet on Aging’ to prepare for changes

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The governor of the oldest state in the nation created a “Cabinet on Aging” on Monday with a hope of preparing for demographic changes that will impact health care and the workforce.

Maine has the nation’s oldest median age. Democratic Gov. Janet Mills said that means tens of thousands of residents will retire in the coming years in the state.

Mills said her new cabinet will help the state ensure older residents can age comfortably, with access to health care and other important supports. The members of the cabinet include the commissioners of several state departments, including the Maine Department of Health and Human Services.

Mills said the cabinet will help to “advance policies across state government that make sure the needs of Maine people are met as they age.”

The cabinet will meet at least four times every year beginning next month.