What does OAAC mean in ADVISORY

An Older Adult Advisory Committee (OAAC) is a group of people from the senior community who are selected by the local government to advise elected officials on matters related to aging. This committee typically consists of retired professionals, community advocates, social service providers, and other individuals with specialized experience in older adult issues. OAAC members usually meet on a regular basis to discuss goals and strategies for improving the quality of life for seniors in their area.

Depending on the geographical area, there may be specific requirements to join an Older Adult Advisory Committee. Typically, you must be a resident of the county or state in which the committee is based and you must demonstrate knowledge or expertise in services and programs that affect seniors. In some cases, you may also need to submit a written application or qualifications statement to be considered for membership.

In general, any capable individual over the age of 55 who meets the eligibility criteria set forth by their local government can serve on an Older Adult Advisory Committee (OAAC). This includes retired professionals, advocates, social service providers, and other individuals with specialized experience in aging-related topics.

Generally speaking, an Older Adult Advisory Committee will discuss any topic that affects seniors within their region. This includes but is not limited to topics such as transportation and mobility; housing; healthcare access; nutrition; recreation and leisure activities; mental health support services; assistance navigating public systems such as Social Security or Medicare; elder abuse prevention; legal services for seniors; volunteer opportunities; intergenerational programming opportunities; resources for caregivers; financial literacy support services; and education initiatives related to aging-related issues.

The frequency of meetings for each Older Adult Advisory Committees vary depending on their location and jurisdiction. Generally speaking though, most committees will meet at least once every two months or quarterly throughout the year depending upon their workload and needs.

Yes – typically members are asked to serve terms lasting between one to three years depending upon local legislation governing this type of advisory group. Terms may be renewed at the discretion of relevant government bodies if desired by both parties involved.

An Older Adult Advisory Committee’s role is largely advisory in nature so they primarily make recommendations rather than binding decisions about policy or legislative changes affecting seniors within their locality. They may provide input regarding budgets, program design features, public policies related to aging services programming – among other matters concerning seniors within their jurisdiction or area as needed from time-to-time.

Yes - generally speaking meetings conducted by Old Adults Advisory Committees are open for all members of the community including non-members who wish to observe proceedings out of curiosity or interest in providing feedback at some point in time going forward if needed. However each meeting chairperson reserves final discretion over what kinds of non-member participation is permissible during specific instances so it’s best check with them ahead before attending*. [*Note – Non-members attending should familiarize themselves with basic principles governing parliamentary procedures.]