The USAging Answers on Aging Annual Conference and Tradeshow stands as the premier national gathering dedicated to the well-being of older adults at home. This event brings together a diverse array of stakeholders including local leaders, government experts, policymakers, business leaders, and other professionals within the Aging Network. The goal is to exchange knowledge, share insights, and explore new directions in aging and health.
Understanding USAging and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs)
USAging, the national association formerly known as the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, plays a crucial role in supporting a network of Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and advocating for the Title VI Native American Aging Programs. These agencies are pivotal in ensuring older adults and people with disabilities across the United States can live with health, independence, and dignity within their homes and communities.
An Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is a public or private nonprofit entity designated by a state to address the needs and concerns of older individuals at local and regional levels. Currently, there are 622 AAAs in the United States. Each AAA is responsible for a specific geographic area, known as a planning and service area (PSA), which can range from a single city or county to a multi-county district. These agencies might be categorized as county, city, regional planning councils, councils of governments, private organizations, or nonprofits.
The Role and Funding of AAAs
AAAs coordinate and may provide services that enable older adults to remain in their homes. These services include home-delivered meals, homemaker assistance, and various other supports that promote independent living. While not all AAAs directly offer services, they all act as one-stop shops connecting older adults to the necessary services within their communities.
Funding for AAAs is typically diverse, drawing from multiple streams like the Older Americans Act, state funds, and more.
The Evolving Landscape and Challenges
Despite their crucial role, many AAAs face significant challenges, particularly regarding infrastructure such as technology and support elements like contracting. Visionary leaders within the field are addressing these issues by developing more Coordinated Health and Human Services (CHH) and Hub-like organizations. These innovators are focusing on consolidated contracting and billing with healthcare payors and systems, thereby streamlining operations and improving service delivery.
However, many AAAs are still unfamiliar with new federal funding mechanisms, such as those for Community Health Initiatives (CHI) and the Provider Innovation Network (PIN). The billing process for Social Determinants of Health (SDOHs) often involves passing through providers, whether in-house or within health systems. Typically, providers receive around 10% in administrative fees, with Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) receiving 90% for service provision.
Opportunities for Growth and Integration
The landscape of AAAs is expected to see more consolidation, with increased collaborations and mergers and acquisitions (M&As). This consolidation is anticipated to create more robust and efficient systems that can better serve the aging population. Early adopters within this space will set the stage, and as many AAAs start preparing to enhance their services, having established relationships will be beneficial.
The USAging Annual Conference highlights the dynamic and evolving field of aging services. AAAs play a pivotal role in ensuring older adults can age well at home, supported by a network of services and funding. As the field continues to innovate and adapt to new challenges, the integration of technology and streamlined processes will be crucial. Companies, like IMPOWR, that position themselves as partners to AAAs now will be well-placed to support the future of aging well at home.