By Steve Gale, Business Development Coordinator
As Maryland’s population ages, older adults are playing an increasingly vital role in the state’s economy and communities.
With people living longer and healthier lives, older Marylanders are not only staying active in the workforce — they are helping drive economic growth, innovation, and community vitality.
But longevity also brings unique challenges. Longer lifespans can strain personal resources, increase the risk of economic hardship, and expose individuals to age-related biases in the workplace. Despite these hurdles, older Marylanders remain essential to economic sustainability — fueling local economies, supporting families, and contributing invaluable life experience to every corner of society.
According to Maryland Department of Aging Secretary Carmel Roques, individuals aged 50 and older currently make up 37% of the state’s population. By 2030, they are projected to support 1.7 million jobs and make up 36% of the workforce. Looking further ahead, by 2050, older adults will contribute nearly 43% of Maryland’s GDP and drive 60% of all consumer spending.
Yet, age discrimination continues to limit opportunities for older workers and stifle the broader economic benefits they bring.
To address this, the Maryland Department of Aging has launched Longevity Ready Maryland (LRM) – a bold, multisector strategy designed to create an age-inclusive workforce and a future where older adults can thrive.
LRM prioritizes:
- Combating ageism and promoting equity
- Creating flexible, inclusive work environments
- Expanding access to lifelong learning and skills development
- Supporting businesses in valuing older workers’ experience
By embracing longevity readiness, Maryland aims to support those most in need today while planning smartly for the future. Through thoughtful policies and investments, the state seeks to ensure that all Marylanders — regardless of age — can live healthy, financially secure, socially connected, and purposeful lives. Learn more about Longevity Ready Maryland and how the state is preparing for the future at LRM.Maryland.gov.
How The Option Group Can Help You Today
Life’s transitions sneak up on us. The Option Group’s Certified Aging Life Care Managers understand the challenges of caring for individuals who need assistance throughout their lifespan due to aging, dementia, disability, or serious illness. Our staff’s insight, compassion, and advocacy ease burdens, improve outcomes and bring peace of mind when it matters most.
Interested in learning how one of our Aging Life Care Managers can support you or your family? Watch this brief video from The Option Group’s founder and owner, Ellen Platt. Ellen provides an overview of services and the approach to care management. You may want to view quickly “Can a Health Care Advocate Improve My Life Today?”.
We value our elders not just for their economic contributions, but for the wisdom and perspective that come with age. Life experience is a gift — and sharing it enriches us all.
If you or someone you care about needs additional support to help cope, The Option Group is here to help. Don’t hesitate to contact our professional care management team for assistance.
About The Option Group: Founded in 2010, The Option Group’s compassionate team of experienced Certified Life Care Managers provides services for families, their loved ones, medical professionals, and professional family advisors in Maryland, DC, Southern Pennsylvania, and Delaware. The firm understands the challenges of caring for individuals who need assistance throughout their lifespan due to aging, dementia, disability, or serious illness. Our skilled providers possess over 100 years of combined experience navigating the healthcare maze and accessing hundreds of resources. The Option Group helps families spend quality time with their loved ones, providing clear choices that lead to better care. For more information, visit www.theoptiongroup.net or call 410-667-0266 (MD) or 717-287-9900 / 610-885-8899/ 215-896-6756 (PA) or 302-858-6449 (DE).
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