In a step toward inclusivity, the State Department of Health and Human Services announced a rebranding of its bureau that supports adults and older adults.

Formerly known as the Bureau of Elderly and Adult Services, serving adults and individuals over 60 the bureau will now be called the Bureau of Adult and Aging Services (BAAS).

This change is a deliberate move away from the term “elderly,” which Bureau Chief Wendi Aultman said carries outdated and stereotypical connotations.

“We are all aging every day, and this name change reflects the Bureau and Department’s commitment to understanding, serving, supporting, and celebrating people as they age,” said Aultman. “Our new name demonstrates respect for and value of all adults across New Hampshire.”

The rebranding is a central component of the state’s aging plan released in 2023. This plan also prioritizes improving transportation for older adults, ensuring they have access to healthcare, daily activities and community engagement.

With a significant rise in the older adult population projected over the next two decades, the state anticipates that more than one-third of its residents will be aged 65 or older by 2030.

As part of its aging plan and 2024 Roadmap, the state has set several objectives to support this growing demographic.

One goal is to increase the percentage of individuals receiving home and community-based services from 50% in May 2024 to 53% by May 2025, reducing reliance on nursing facility care.

To further these objectives, the Bureau is partnering with the US Administration for Community Living to enhance New Hampshire’s system of care for healthy aging. This collaboration will focus on building a comprehensive, coordinated system of long-term support and services, in line with the Older Americans Act of 1965.