The search is on for Iowa’s oldest citizens. Carolyn Danielson, with the Iowa Department of Elder Affairs, says they want to locate any Iowan who is 100-years old, or who will be 100-years of age by the end of May, 2006. She says they’re looking for the names, birthdates and addresses of the oldest Iowans.
Danielson says those Centenarians will be invited to attend the 27th Annual Governor’s Conference on Aging, which takes place May 22nd and 23rd in Des Moines. She says all those who’re able to come will be recognized and get a certificate from the governor.
Danielson says while transportation to the conference is not provided, other amenities are taken care of. Danielson says they’ll provide a hotel room and lunch for the centenarians. Danielson says anyone who knows of someone who is 100-years of age or who soon will be, should contact the Department of Elder affairs at 1-800-532-3213. You can also visit their website at www.state.ia.us/elderaffairs .
There are currently 94 people aged 105 and older on the Elder Affairs’ registry. Danielson says if none of them dies by the end of May, three of the individuals will have reached their 111th birthday. Iowa’s oldest resident — 11-year old Hazel Blecha — lives at a care facility in Des Moines.