BEFORE IT WAS COOL: THE AGING NETWORK’S ROLE IN ADDRESSING SOCIAL NEEDS AND REDUCING DISPARITIES

Abstract

Abstract Decades before social determinants of health (SDOH) became such a focus of attention across health and social care, Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), Title VI Native American Aging Programs, and their Aging Network partners had developed local systems of coordinated services and supports to assess and address health-related social needs. Every service and program provided by an AAA or Title VI program addresses a need related to SDOH risks. The Older Americans Act mandates that funded services such as congregate and home-delivered meals, support for caregivers, transportation, and housing supports are targeted to older adults with the greatest economic or social need. Using the foundational study on “ACL’s Impact on the Social Determinants of Health” as a framework, this symposium will demonstrate how OAA-funded programs map to SDOH pathways. Presenters will describe specific programs and new practices within the Aging Network that identify and address social needs of older adults from historically marginalized and underserved communities. These initiatives, many of which were born through COVID response, include analyses and partnerships to advance health equity and care integration. Presenters will describe how Aging Network practices and partnerships have altered community environments to make community living accessible to older adults who have been traditionally underserved, and current workforce challenges that threaten continued progress. The session will conclude with an interactive discussion about gaps, strategies, and next steps to reinforce, articulate and demonstrate the value of Aging Network services in addressing SDOH risks and needs.