Iowa Department on Aging

The Iowa Department on Aging strives to improve the quality of life and care of older Iowans through advocacy, planning, policy development and the administration and support of statewide programs and services that promote health, safety and long-term independence.

Established as the State Unit on Aging under the Older Americans Act, the Iowa Department on Aging receives federal funding each year from the Administration for Community Living (a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services) and redistributes it to Iowa’s six Area Agencies on Aging, which are strategically located throughout the state and work together and with local service providers to meet the needs of older Iowans.

This "aging network" is designed to serve all Iowans who are 60 and older, with particular emphasis on populations demonstrating the greatest social or economic need. With projections for Iowa’s population aged 65+ to grow to constitute 19.9 percent of the state’s total population by 2050, the Department focuses on empowering older adults to maintain their independence and advocates on behalf of older Iowans to ensure their rights, safety and overall well-being.

Mission

The mission of the Iowa Department on Aging is to develop a comprehensive, coordinated and cost-effective system of long-term living and community support services that helps individuals maintain health and independence in their homes and communities.

Vision

Building the best place to live healthier, longer.

Core Functions

Advocacy

To advocate for changes in public policy, practices and programs that empower older Iowans, facilitate their access to services, protect their rights and prevent abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Health and Support Services

To support policies, programs and wellness initiatives that empower older Iowans to stay active and healthy, and that improve their access to affordable, high quality long-term living and community supports.

Planning, Development and Coordination

To conduct planning, policy development, administration, coordination, priority-setting and evaluation of all state activities related to the objectives of the federal Older Americans Act.