The purpose of the public hearings is to hear what the elderly feel are the crucial issues, then utilize the information to determine how the Commission can best advocate for the elderly. The Commission also takes this opportunity to provide information to the participants. The Commission ensures that experts in the field are in attendance to give responses to questions posed. Everyone in attendance is also given a comprehensive packet of information on available services and programs. To encourage turnout, letters of invitation are mailed to people in the aging network and elected officials.
Assistance is enlisted from key advocates in the community and a media campaign is initiated.
During each public hearing, a representative of the site gives the welcoming remarks. The moderator performs the introductions, delivers a brief background on the Commission and its advocacy role, and describes the purpose of the public hearing. The elderly, their service providers, caregivers and advocates, etc., have an opportunity for the next two hours to voice their comments, concerns, and recommendations on aging related issues. They also have the opportunity to question the ex officio members represented by various state agencies about concerns they may have.