Area Agencies on Aging in Georgia

Georgia operates a regional-based system of 12 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), each responsible for providing services to older adults in a multi-county area. These AAAs function under the Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services (DAS), ensuring that seniors have access to essential programs such as in-home care, transportation, and caregiver support.

Structure of AAAs in Georgia

• 12 Regional AAAs: Each covers a designated region, ensuring local service delivery based on specific community needs.
• Oversight by the Division of Aging Services (DAS): Georgia’s DAS distributes federal and state funding to AAAs and sets policy guidelines.
• Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ADRC): Georgia’s AAAs also serve as ADRCs, creating a single entry point for both aging and disability services.
• Contracted Service Model: The AAAs do not provide services directly but contract with local service providers, such as senior centers, meal delivery programs, and transportation providers.
• Services Provided Include:
  • Home-delivered & congregate meals
  • Transportation assistance
  • Medicare & Medicaid counseling (Georgia SHIP program)
  • Respite care for caregivers
  • Elder rights advocacy & abuse prevention
  • Case management & long-term care options counseling

Comparison with Other States

Similarities:

1. Regional Structure: Like Florida, North Carolina, and Texas, Georgia has multiple AAAs that divide the state into service regions.
2. Federal Compliance: Georgia’s AAAs follow Older Americans Act (OAA) guidelines and receive funding from the Administration for Community Living (ACL).
3. Community-Based Model: Georgia’s AAAs work closely with local nonprofits, senior centers, and hospitals, similar to other states.

Differences:

1. Centralized State Oversight:
   • Some states, like California and Texas, allow their AAAs to operate with more autonomy.
   • Georgia maintains strict oversight through DAS, ensuring uniform policies and service quality.
2. ADRC Integration:
   • Some states have separate AAAs and ADRCs.
   • Georgia combines them, making it easier for seniors and individuals with disabilities to find services.
3. Balanced Urban & Rural Coverage:
   • Georgia’s AAAs serve a mix of urban areas (Atlanta, Savannah, Augusta) and rural counties.
   • This requires a different approach than states with mostly urban populations (e.g., New Jersey) or vast rural areas (e.g., Montana).

Conclusion

Georgia’s regional AAA system provides localized aging services while maintaining centralized oversight through the Division of Aging Services. While it follows a similar regional model as many states, Georgia stands out with its integrated ADRC approach, state-managed policy control, and balanced focus on both urban and rural senior populations.

List of Area Agencies on Aging in Florida