Congratulations to Utah Geriatrics Society ...now a recognized Affiliate of the American Geriatrics Society. Thank you to all the organizers and new members for their interest and hard work.

The purpose of the Utah Geriatrics Society is to carry out the mission of AGS, “to improve the health, independence and quality of life of all older people”, in the State of Utah. More specifically the purpose of state affiliates as defined by AGS is threefold: 1- to recruit local leaders who can promote clinical geriatrics 2- to establish a local presence for AGS across the country, and 3- to identify future national leaders.

There are currently 24 AGS affiliates and other states are preparing to add to that number. In Utah, we are experiencing a population that is aging much faster than the national average - by 2030 there is projected to be 482,593 people over 65 years in Utah (17.14% of the population). In order for us to be able to meet the needs of this growing population of older adults, we will have to be well organized, up to date with current practice standards and be able to attract other professionals into geriatric practice. Developing an active Utah affiliate of AGS will be an important step in meeting these goals.

We hope that you will join us in this important venture. We believe that Utah's affiliate of AGS will help meet our clinical, educational and advocacy goals and help us improve the quality of life for the older adults we care for.