Study coordination and delivery of services for seniors, and examine the possibility of more efficient allocation of services provided by the Area Agencies on Aging.

              INTERIM STUDY REPORT
Human Services Committee
Representative Pam Peterson, Chairperson
Oklahoma House of Representatives
Interim Study 11-102, Rep. Pam Peterson
October 18, 2011
Study coordination and delivery of services for seniors, and examine the possibility of more
efficient allocation of services provided by the Area Agencies on Aging.
Lance Robertson, Director
OKDHS Aging Services Division
Lance.robertson@okdhs.org
o Currently, 19.3% (694,024) of the Oklahoma population is age 60 or over; by 2030,
24.45% (954,795) will be 60 or over.
o The Older Americans Act (OAA) was enacted in 1965 with the purpose of helping older
Americans maintain independence and promote a continuum of care.
o Targets the greatest economic or social need; however, means testing for program
eligibility is prohibited.
o There are cost-sharing policies in place for certain services based on a sliding scale.
o There are 11 Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) in Oklahoma. The AAA work with
program partners and a network of providers implement the program and deliver services.
o Current funding for the program is $26.9 million; 62% of which is federal funding; 37%
state and 1% local.
o The State Plan on Aging is developed every four years with input from consumers and
partners and must be approved by the federal government.
o Value in considering changes in the state plan to stress efficiency while ensuring service
delivery.
o There are four possible considerations:
 Is there a way to more efficiently manage the legal aid services system?
 Is there a more efficient way to manage the registered dieticians play within
the network?
 Should the senior info line remain in place, given the services provided by 2-1-1?
 Should Oklahoma explore realigning planning and service areas within the state
to create a more modern, stronger and efficient service delivery system?
o 33 states serve more people with fewer AAAs than Oklahoma.
Jay States
Northern Oklahoma Development Authority
o Reviewed examples of services provided by the AAAs.
o 71% of AAA funding goes toward nutrition projects.
o The OAA designates that 5% of federal funds be used for State Administration (OKDHS)
and 10% of funds provided to AAAs for local administration.
o Recommendations for increased efficiencies:
 Funding formula is based on 1990 and 2000 census data. Revising the formula
would result in a redistribution of funding to areas of highest need.
 AAA’s should be encouraged to find efficiencies in their programs to expand their
level of services.
 Increase local flexibility to contract for services.
 Standardize nutrition program menus and reduce dietician expenses.