Meeting Material 3.pdf

AZAging Board Chair Mary Beals Luedtka reported on the status of services provided by Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) across Arizona. The Arizona Legislature appropriated $1 million in ongoing funding and $2 million in one-time funding for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) to address minimum wage increases. AZAging requests that the $2 million be continued as ongoing funding in FY 2024 to maintain service levels. The waiting list for HCBS is 1,776, and without continued funding, AAAs would be forced to reduce service hours or clients served.

Regional updates include:
- Region III made bonuses available for providers with Direct Care Workers (DCWs) but faced challenges distributing the funding.
- Region IV developed a survey on emergency needs, highlighting the need for assistance with utilities, rent, and long-term care in La Paz County.
- Region ONE received $288,000 for COVID, flu, and shingles vaccinations and $25,000 for its MOSAIC Elder Refugee Program.
- Region III and Region IV held public hearings on their new Area Plans.
- Region V is focused on completing its Community Needs Assessment, with 600 surveys completed, and has scheduled public forums.
- Region V also has a Virtual Senior Center pilot project, is considering a grant for COVID-19 vaccine clinics, and continues to offer social engagement opportunities.
- Region VI's SHIP/SMP Coordinator and Ombudsman Coordinator were invited to discuss the Southeastern Arizona Elder Abuse Taskforce, and the Area Agency on Aging's Area Plan is in its final stages.