Aging & Independence

Maryland Access Point (MAP) of Howard County is the gateway for information and assistance for older adults, persons with disabilities, family members and caregivers who need or want to plan for future needs.   

Pursue an active and vital lifestyle through the many offerings at Howard County’s 50+ Centers. Centers offer a wide variety of programs and services including fitness programs, educational opportunities in the arts and humanities; wellness classes and many opportunities for social and recreational activities.

An age-friendly community respects everyone regardless of age or stage of life, and provides basic components that make it a safe place to grow old and grow up.  Click to view more information and the eight domains of livability identified by AARP and the World Health Organization that help make a community age-friendly.

A range of services to assist older adults to remain independent in the community with support.

The Howard County Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) is paving the way for a more digitally inclusive Howard County.

Improving the health and quality of life for older adults and persons with disabilities through a variety of programs and services including exercise, fitness and nutrition programs, wellness classes and evidence-based programs. 

Older adult housing options are numerous, and include independent living communities, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes. MAP can assist you in navigating all the housing options available and determine those that are most appropriate for you or your loved one. 

Learn about a variety of programs and services that support healthy aging in the community. 

Subscribe to the latest publications, reports and plans for the Office on Aging and Independence, including OAI's digital newsletter, distributed via Constant Contact, and the 50+ Connection, published monthly in the Howard County Beacon..

Various opportunities to engage with your community.

Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare Recalls Bed Assist Handles and Rails

Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare has announced the recall of four different models of its Bed Assist Handles and Rail. The four recalled models are:

• Model 15064, Bed Assist Handle
• Model 15062, Bed Assist Rail with Folding Board
• Model RTL15073, Home Bed Assist Handle (adjustable)
• Model RTL15063-ADJ, Home Bed Assist Handle (adjustable)

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled items and contact Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare to receive a full refund. Contact Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare at. 877-467-3099 or click here for more information. 

Essential Medical Supply Inc. Recalls Adult Portable Bed Rails Due to Entrapment and Asphyxia Hazard

Essential Medical Supply Inc. announced the recall of four models of the company’s Endurance Hand Bed Rails, including the Hand Bed Rail (model P1410), Hand Bed Rail with Pouch (model P1410-P), Hand Bed Rail with Floor Support (model P1411), and Hand Bed Rail with Floor Support with Pouch (model P1411-P). 

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled items. For information about refunds, contact Essential Medical Supply toll-free at 888-856-0111 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or visit essentialmedicalsupply.com and click on “Important Safety Notice” at the top of the page. Or, go to https://essentialmedicalsupply.com/products/recalls. More details can be found in the recall notification.

If you have any questions regarding these notices, you may contact Maryland Access Point, Howard County at 410-313-1234 (voice/relay) or email [email protected].

If you would like to request the Office on Aging and Independence to provide a presentation or participate in a community event, please click here to complete the request form .  Please submit the request form at least 2 weeks prior to the event, and allow 3-5 business days for decisions to be made.