Area Agencies on Aging in Arizona

Arizona Aging Services: State Programs and Area Agencies on Aging

As people grow older, having access to reliable support services can make a big difference in maintaining independence and quality of life. In Arizona, the state government, along with local organizations, works to ensure older adults have the resources they need. The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) is the main agency responsible for overseeing services for seniors, including funding and coordination of local programs. Arizona also has a network of 8 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) that provide direct services at the community level.

This article explores Arizona’s aging services, how they work, and where seniors can get assistance.

Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) – Aging and Adult Services

The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) – Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) is the state agency that oversees aging programs. DAAS works to ensure that older adults and adults with disabilities can live as independently as possible. While DES sets the policies and distributes funding, the actual services are provided through local Area Agencies on Aging.

What Does DES Do for Seniors?

DES plays a role in multiple aspects of senior care in Arizona, including:

• Coordinating Services: The department partners with AAAs, community organizations, and federal programs to provide aging services statewide.
• Managing Funding: DES distributes federal and state funding to ensure seniors receive services such as meals, transportation, and caregiver support.
• Protecting Vulnerable Adults: The Adult Protective Services (APS) unit within DES investigates cases of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
• Supporting Family Caregivers: The Family Caregiver Support Program offers resources for those taking care of aging loved ones.
• Providing Long-Term Care Options: DES helps seniors access Arizona’s Medicaid long-term care system, known as Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS).

How to Contact the Arizona Department of Economic Security

If you or a loved one needs assistance, you can reach out to DES using the contact details below:

• Arizona Department of Economic Security – Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS)
• Phone: 602-542-4446
• Website: https://des.az.gov/services/older-adults
• Address: 1789 W Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85007

Arizona’s 8 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs)

Arizona is divided into 8 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), each responsible for a specific region. These agencies provide direct services, including nutrition programs, transportation, legal assistance, and home-based care.

What Services Do AAAs Offer?

Each AAA provides essential services that help seniors live independently:

• Meal Programs: Home-delivered meals (such as Meals on Wheels) and group meals at senior centers.
• Transportation: Rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, and senior centers.
• In-Home Support Services: Help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and housekeeping.
• Caregiver Support: Respite care, training, and assistance for family members caring for older adults.
• Legal Assistance: Free or low-cost legal advice on issues such as wills, benefits, and elder rights.
• Long-Term Care Assistance: Help navigating Medicaid (ALTCS) and other long-term care options.
• Health and Wellness Programs: Classes on managing chronic diseases, fall prevention, and exercise programs.

Where Do Arizona’s Area Agencies on Aging Serve?

Each of the 8 AAAs in Arizona is responsible for specific counties or regions. Below is a breakdown of their service areas and contact information.

1. Region One – Area Agency on Aging, Region One

• Serves: Maricopa County, including Phoenix and surrounding cities.
• Phone: 602-264-2255
• Website: www.aaaphx.org

2. Region Two – Pima Council on Aging

• Serves: Pima County, including Tucson.
• Phone: 520-790-7262
• Website: www.pcoa.org

3. Region Three – Northern Arizona Council of Governments (NACOG) Aging Services

• Serves: Apache, Coconino, Navajo, and Yavapai counties.
• Phone: 877-521-3500
• Website: www.nacog.org/aging

4. Region Four – Western Arizona Council of Governments (WACOG) Aging Services

• Serves: La Paz, Mohave, and Yuma counties.
• Phone: 800-782-1886
• Website: www.wacog.com

5. Region Five – Pinal-Gila Council for Senior Citizens

• Serves: Pinal and Gila counties.
• Phone: 800-293-9393
• Website: www.pgcsc.org

6. Region Six – SouthEastern Arizona Governments Organization (SEAGO) Aging Services

• Serves: Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, and Santa Cruz counties.
• Phone: 520-432-2528
• Website: www.seago.org

7. Region Seven – Inter Tribal Council of Arizona, Inc. (ITCA) Aging Program

• Serves: Tribal communities across Arizona.
• Phone: 602-258-4822
• Website: www.itcaonline.com

8. Region Eight – Navajo Nation Area Agency on Aging

• Serves: Navajo Nation lands within Arizona.
• Phone: 928-871-6869
• Website: www.nndss.navajo-nsn.gov

How to Reach Arizona’s Aging Services

If you or a loved one need assistance, here’s how you can connect with Arizona’s aging resources:

1. Call the Arizona Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC)
   • Phone: 1-888-264-2258
   • The ADRC helps connect seniors with their local AAA and other support services.
2. Contact Your Local AAA Directly
   • You can find the contact details for your region in the list above.
3. Visit the Arizona DES Website
   • https://des.az.gov/services/aging-and-adult

Conclusion

Arizona’s aging services are structured to provide a mix of state oversight and local assistance. The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) manages funding and policies, while 8 Area Agencies on Aging deliver direct services to seniors in different regions.

From meal programs and transportation to in-home support and caregiver assistance, Arizona’s AAAs ensure that older adults can access the help they need. Whether you are looking for help for yourself or a loved one, reaching out to a local AAA or calling the Arizona ADRC is a great way to get started.

List of Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in Arizona

Arizona has eight Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) that serve different regions of the state. These agencies are responsible for planning, coordinating, and delivering services to older adults, people with disabilities, and their families and caregivers. Here are the AAAs and their details: