The Maine Association of Area Agencies on Aging is a private, non-profit organization that represents Maine’s 5 Area Agencies on Aging statewide.
Our mission is to advocate for social and economic policies, as well as resources, that promote independence, dignity and well-being for Maine’s older adults.
Maine’s five Area Agencies on Aging include:
Aroostook Area Agency on Aging in Presque Isle (Director Steve Farnham);
Eastern Area Agency on Aging in Bangor (Director Noelle Merrill);
Spectrum Generations here in Augusta (Director Muriel Scott);
SeniorsPlus in Lewiston (Director Betsy Sawyer-Manter); and,
Southern Maine Area Agency on Aging in Scarborough (Director Larry Gross).
The Area Agencies on Aging, established under the Federal Older Americans Act in 1973, are private, non-profit agencies supported by funds from the Federal and State government, United Way Agencies, local municipalities and private contributions.
These agencies provide outreach and community support services to thousands of Maine’s elderly citizens throughout the state to make independent living a viable option.
The Area Agencies on Aging offer programs that make a difference in the lives of older adults. From the frail older person who can remain at home if they receive the right services, to those who are healthy and can benefit from the activities and socialization provided by community-based programs such as community centers.
For many older adults and disabled, Meals on Wheels makes it possible for them to remain in their homes, where they want to be, and not in a much more expensive facility. The program provides vital nutrition and social interaction. Other individuals seek help in their caregiving role and need information and support. And there are those who struggle to make ends meet and need someone to point them in the direction of resources – food, fuel, financial assistance and community supports.
Last year (2009) through Maine’s Area Agencies on Aging:
611,810 nutritious meals were delivered to 5,460 homebound seniors;
3,915 Caregivers received assistance;
36,305 Individuals received assistance through information and referral; and,
45,371 rides were provided to people in need.
Many other services are provided by the Area Agencies on Aging as well. It’s important to note that much of our work is done by trained and dedicated volunteers, who spend countless hours helping others.
Anyone anywhere in the state can contact their Agency on Aging by calling 1-877- Elders1 (1-877-353-3771). This number will automatically connect them to the Area Agency on Aging for their region of the State.
The Association’s web site is: Maine4a.org. There are links to all five of Maine’s Area Agencies on Aging. Our email is: gnewson@spectrumgenerations.org.
Maine’s demographics emphasize the importance of the services currently provided to our state’s elderly and the need for appropriate resources to sustain and expand those services now and into the future. In 2000, about 14% of Maine’s population was 65 or over. By 2030, 22% of Maine’s population will be 65 or over. We must work now to ensure that the services needed will be available for Maine’s older citizens.
