The Area Agency on Aging is designated by the California Department of Aging to serve as the lead agency in Monterey County as the local planners for services and issues concerning the elderly. The Area Agency on Aging is responsible for advocacy and grant administration to purchase services from community agencies, such as congregate nutrition, home delivered meals, legal services, in-home care, health insurance counseling, long term care ombudsman services, and day care for people with Alzheimer's disease. In addition, the Area Agency on Aging provides local planning, program development, and advocacy. The Area Agency on Aging has an advisory council composed of 15 representatives that meet monthly throughout the county.
Public participation is encouraged.