By design, AAAs are both the same and different. Many of the state and federally funded programs operate in the same manner across the state. AAAs were specifically designed to respond to the local needs of their elderly constituency. It is in their flexibility that the true strength and value of the AAA network exists. Appendix H provides a detailed listing of the funds allocated annually to AAAs, and Appendix I identifies service delivery and expenditure information for the various services provided under the plan.
Senior centers funded by AAAs are focal points for the actual delivery or access to many services.
There are currently 287 senior centers located around the state in both urban and rural settings. Through the senior center, the older person can access a range of services including transportation, congregate meals, nutrition and consumer education, health promotion and screening activities, arts and crafts, recreation, legal assistance and information about other services such as home-delivered meals, homemaker chore, personal care, respite, educational programs regarding elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, as well as other items of interest and concern. Many services are provided through the use of volunteers. When coordinated with the DA's HCS case manager within the community, services are available to the severely impaired, moderately impaired, and the well elderly. Missouri's aging network continues to meet the needs of its rural elderly in a variety of ways.