L ET T E R S
The Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council Left to right: Mary Ann Yarbrough, Kathy McNally, Lynn Campbell (Chair), Randy Marshall, Donna Belt (Vice Chair), Patti Cho, Shirley Wagner, Wayne Taylor
OUR PRIMARY DUTIES ARE THE SAME
he Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council is pleased to be a part of the 2021-2022 edition of Anne Arundel County Directory of Services for older adults, individuals with disabilities, caregivers, and their families. This publication provides valuable information on a myriad of life enhancing services, programs, and resources available in Anne Arundel County. The Directory will be mailed and can also be picked up at various Department of Aging and Disabilities food distribution events throughout the year. English and Spanish versions are also available online. The Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council was established by the Older Americans Act of 1965 (Sec 1321.57) to serve in an advisory capacity to the DoAD and the County Executive on matters that will further the county’s and the council’s mission of developing and coordinating community-based
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Evaluating programs funded by the Area Agency on Aging including the Area Plan. Providing advice to county officials on any matter relating to older citizens. Representing the interests of and acting as an advocate for the senior citizens of Anne Arundel County. Identifying gaps in services to seniors and providing recommendations for corrective action. Attending council meetings and actively participating in deliberations and activities.
For additional information visit: http://www.aacounty.org/boards-and-commissions/area-agencyon-aging-advisory-council/index.html systems of services for all older persons in our planning and service area. The council is composed of senior activity center, public and affiliate service provider representatives. It has been a year since the COVID-19 pandemic began. As we enter 2021, the Advisory Council continues to operate under the pandemic guidelines established by the executive order signed by County Executive Pittman on April 14, 2020, that reinforced community engagement during the COVID-19 crisis to allow boards and commissions to meet virtually by video. The Department of Aging and Disabilities and senior activity centers managers have developed new approaches to engage seniors. Zoom meetings, telecommuting, distance learning, remotely creative take home arts and crafts, fitness and educational sessions on social media help to prevent social isolation. Council members assist the DoAD when needed and contribute to events for older adults including Older Americans Month which is celebrated every May. www.aacounty.org/aging
