Area Agency on Aging Program

The Area Agency on Aging was created by the Federal Older Americans Act and designated by the state to address the needs and concerns of older Americans at the local level. All Area Agencies provide three important services for older Americans ages 60 and over:

• Advocacy for all older Americans in their service areas
• Identification of the needs of the elderly in their areas
• Administration of Older Americans Act funds

Area Agency operation is based on a three-year planning period with annual updates as necessary. Criteria for approval of the Area Plan includes emphasis upon priority activities which benefit elderly persons with the greatest economic or social need. Area Agencies coordinate their activities with service agencies and organizations in order to avoid duplication of services.

The provision of service is accomplished by the awarding of grants through a “Request for Proposal” process to local public or private entities. The Area Agency is responsible for monitoring project adherence to regulations and assurances within the grant, as well as evaluating the effectiveness of services rendered to older people. Funded programs currently provide in-home services, transportation, nutrition, legal services, outreach and many types of preventive education.

The Area Agency provides the direct services of information and assistance and nursing home resident advocacy through the Ombudsman Program. Area Agencies are also charged with responding to needs of the elderly by advocating for the establishment or the revision of existing local, state and federal regulations and legislation to improve conditions for older persons.