Area Agencies on Aging in Hawaii

Hawaii operates a county-based system of four Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), with each agency serving one of the state’s four major counties: Honolulu, Hawaii, Maui, and Kauai. These AAAs function under the Hawaii Executive Office on Aging (EOA), which provides oversight and coordination for senior services throughout the state.

Structure of AAAs in Hawaii

• 4 County-Based AAAs: Unlike most states that divide AAAs into multi-county regions, Hawaii has one AAA per county due to its island geography.
• Oversight by the Executive Office on Aging (EOA): The EOA ensures that AAAs comply with state and federal regulations, administers funding, and coordinates services statewide.
• Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs): Hawaii has fully integrated its AAAs with ADRCs, making it a single point of access for both aging and disability services.
• Contracted Service Model: The AAAs do not provide services directly but contract with local nonprofits and community organizations to deliver programs.
• Services Provided Include:
  • Home-delivered meals (Meals on Wheels)
  • Transportation services
  • Medicaid & Medicare counseling (SHIP program)
  • Respite care for caregivers
  • Long-term care options counseling
  • Senior employment and volunteer opportunities

Comparison with Other States

Similarities:

1. Federal Compliance: Like all states, Hawaii’s AAAs operate under the Older Americans Act (OAA) and receive funding from the Administration for Community Living (ACL).
2. Single Point of Entry (ADRC Model): Similar to Florida and Georgia, Hawaii has integrated its AAAs with ADRCs, making it easier for seniors and individuals with disabilities to find services.
3. Community Partnerships: Hawaii’s AAAs work closely with local nonprofits, hospitals, and senior centers, just like other states.

Differences:

1. County-Based Instead of Regional AAAs:
   • Most states divide AAAs into multi-county regions.
   • Hawaii has one AAA per county, aligning services with the island-based geography.
2. More Centralized State Oversight:
   • In some states, AAAs have more local autonomy (e.g., California, Texas).
   • Hawaii’s Executive Office on Aging maintains strong control over policy and funding allocation.
3. Unique Geographic Challenges:
   • Unlike states with continuous land borders, Hawaii’s AAAs must coordinate services across separate islands, which can be more complex and costly.
   • Transportation barriers and higher costs of living make senior services in Hawaii more expensive than in many mainland states.

Conclusion

Hawaii’s county-based AAA system is unique due to its island geography, requiring a localized but state-coordinated approach. While it follows the federal AAA model seen in other states, Hawaii’s county-level organization, strong state oversight, and ADRC integration set it apart, ensuring comprehensive, accessible services for seniors across all islands.

List of Area Agencies on Aging in Florida