Houston Department of Health and Human Services > Harris County Area Agency on Aging > What is the Agency's Advisory Council?

What is the Agency's Advisory Council?

The Older Americans Act of 1965 and its subsequent amendments provides for the establishment of a citizens advisory council to each Area Agency on Aging (AAA). The purpose of the council is to advise the AAA on all matters relating to the development and implementation of services for older adults, and guidance in the development and administration of its area plan. It is authorized to "review and comment" on all community policies, programs and actions with respect to older persons. Over half of the member-ship of the local advisory council (the Area Planning Advisory Council or APAC) consists of older adults. Other members include service providers, local elected officials and citizens interested in the needs of the elderly.

The advisory council functions through standing committees which address social services, nutrition, transportation, housing, legislation, nursing home advocacy and training. A special proposal review committee is convened annually to review funding applications.

Each AAA is free to determine the size of the advisory council, selection process for participants, frequency of meetings, structure, focus and potential influence on the agency.

For more information, call the Harris County Area Agency on Aging at 713-794-9001.  If outside Harris County, please call toll free 1-800-213-8471.

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