The Idaho Commission on Aging and the Area Agencies on Aging 3/25/2010
What is the Idaho Commission on Aging?
The Idaho Commission on Aging (ICOA) is the sole state agency designated under the Older Americans Act to administer programs and services for Idahoans 60 years of age and older. Since 1965, the Older Americans Act has provided funding for services to meet the diverse needs of older persons in the United States through the National Aging Services Network. The Idaho Commission on Aging helps ensure that older Americans and their families have the information and assistance they need to make informed decisions and choices. These choices help families care for their loved ones, help older people stay in their homes, and provide care options other than nursing home facilities. Located under the oversight of the Executive Office of the Governor, the ICOA plans and coordinates, funds, and monitors a statewide program of services to meet present and future needs of older Idahoans. Primary partners in providing a statewide program of services are the Area Agencies on Aging. Three statewide programs that require management responsibilities of ICOA are the Adult Protection Program, Ombudsman Program and Older Worker Program. Its second responsibility is to advocate for Idaho's elderly to secure existing rights, benefits and services under Federal, State and local law and to gain crucial new programs.
What are the Idaho Area Agencies on Aging?
Idaho is divided into six planning and service areas, each assigned to one Area Agency on Aging (AAA), which administers and manages programs and services for the elderly. Each designated AAA is responsible for developing, coordinating and administering comprehensive systems of community-based services to maximize independence and quality of life for those persons 60 years of age and older. Each AAA develops a plan for its service area, assuring that programs and services respond to local needs. AAAs generally are not direct service providers. Through competitive bidding and service agreements, AAAs contract with local service providers. The AAA, however, is responsible for all aspects of service provision, including planning and development, evaluating contracts and providers, monitoring programs and services, and providing technical assistance to sub-contractors. In addition, AAAs function as advocates for seniors and are focal points for information relating to aging issues. The mission of the Area Agencies on Aging is to promote independence, dignity and protection of individuals through advocacy and services.
What services do they provide?
The Area Agency on Aging can assist you, your family, and caregivers with information regarding available services for seniors age 60 years and older. This includes but is not limited to requests for information regarding:
- Low income housing, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes in the area
- Housekeeping, personal care services, respite, and meals for homebound seniors
- Transportation for the elderly and disabled when available
- Medicare and Medicaid information
- Local support groups
- Caregiver information
- Adult protection services The Adult Protection Program serves vulnerable adults who may be abused, neglected or exploited. It develops an action plan on substantiated cases to address the allegations and protection needs of the individual in a least restrictive setting.
Get more information You can find more information about the Idaho Commission on Aging and the Area Agencies on Aging by visiting their web site. Go to: www.idahoaging.com. You can also get contact information by phone. You can dial 2-1-1 or 1-800-926-2588.