State Units on Aging vs. Area Agencies on Aging: Who Does What?
Senior Care
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Christian Scholes
Side-by-Side Comparison
State Unit on Aging (SUA) Explained
Role:
- Distributes federal/state funding (Older Americans Act)
- Sets eldercare policies for the state
- Oversees Adult Protective Services
Best For:
- Policy advocates
- Large-scale program info
Example: California’s SUA runs the "Master Plan for Aging" initiative.
Area Agency on Aging (AAA) Explained
Role:
- Provides direct services (meals, transport, caregiving)
- Local offices in every county
Best For:
- Immediate help
- Personalized care plans
Example:
- Cook County AAA offers "Friendly Visitor" volunteers for isolated seniors.
- How They Work Together
Case Study:
- SUA allocates funds for dementia care
- AAA trains local caregivers
- Family accesses 20 hours/month respite care
Which One Should I Call First?
START → Need policy help or state-wide data? → SUA
↓
Need local services (meals, rides)? → AAA
↓
Unsure? → Call SUA—they’ll refer you
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