The state agency on aging [aging and long-term services department] shall establish and maintain a comprehensive statewide program designed to meet the social service needs of the state’s aged population, including but not limited to the following:

A. strengthen and coordinate services of state and local public bodies for the benefit of the aged;

B. promote the utilization of older persons in all phases of employment;

C. disseminate information to the aged relative to federal, state and local services for the aged;

D. encourage training programs, retraining programs and opportunities for older workers;

E. develop new methods of job placement for older workers;

F. promote public recognition of the advantages of hiring and retaining older workers; and

G. promote and develop programs of community resources and facilities designed to meet the social needs of older persons.