HCOA Area Agency on Aging (AAA) 4-year Plan 2023 - 2027

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Executive Summary In 1973, the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) was formally established in the re-authorization of the Older Americans Act (OAA). In the re-authorization of the Act, the AAA was recognized as the “on- the-ground” entity charged with fulfilling the OAA mission. The mission, was to assist older individuals to live independently and with dignity at home, while remaining active and engaged in their th communities for as long as possible. Thus, 2023 marks the 50 anniversary of AAA’s serving as the leaders on aging by planning, developing, funding, and implementing through the local aging network a coordinated system of aging and home and community-based services (HCBS) for older individuals who reside in their Planning and Service Area’s (PSA’s). This four-year Area Plan on Aging will cover the federal funding period beginning October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2027. The plan focuses on five topic areas developed by the Administration for Community Living (ACL). Embracing the State Executive Office on Aging’s (EOA) overarching goals and objectives. Developing a comprehensive service plan and delivery system, to fit the unique needs of Hawaiʻi County’s communities, geographical makeup, and cultural needs. The following are the five major key topic areas for this planning period: Topic Area 1. Core OAA/Title III Programs The Older Americans Act core programs found in Titles III (Supportive Services, Nutrition, Disease Prevention/Health Promotion, and Caregiver Programs), VI (Native American Programs), and VII (Elder Rights Programs) serve as the foundation of the national aging services network which strives to optimize the health, safety, and independence of Americas’ older adults. Topic Area 2. COVID-19 COVID-19 highlighted the overall importance of the services that make it possible for older adults to live independently, created national awareness of the impact of social isolation on older adults and their caregivers, and increased awareness to plan for future disasters. Topic Area 3. Equity Serving individuals with the greatest economic and social need, ensuring that all individuals diverse groups are included served with equity is reflected in all aspects in the administration of this plan. Topic Area 4. Expanding Access to HCBS Home and Community Based Services are fundamental to making it possible for older adults to age in place. Topic Area 5. Caregiving Enhancing services and supports for caregivers. Nationally the older population is expected to continue to grow significantly. Approximately two-fifths (42%) of the “baby boom” generation is now age 65 and older. The U.S. Census Bureau released the vii