Advocacy

Understanding the realities of the region's aging population is critical for lawmakers and elected officials, including the changes and services needed to help people age well, the opportunities and benefits of an older population, and the problems and costs of doing nothing. 

The AAA works with the Older Americans Coalition, the Senior Lobby, the Alliance of Retired Federal Workers, AARP, the Colorado Association of Area Agencies on Aging and others to protect and increase state funding for senior services. By partnering with community service providers, the AAA has demonstrated how cuts to the Older Coloradans Fund impact individuals directly and negatively. 

The AAA is expanding its outreach and advocacy efforts to include people with disabilities and organizations advocating for them. Additionally, the AAA's Ombudsman Program advocates for individuals and provides systemic advocacy on behalf of residents living in long-term care facilities.

Advocacy is a primary function of the AAA and is mandated under the federal Older Americans Act.