Aging Network

The diverse matrix of organizations that plan and provide services to older persons is known as "the aging network." The administrative hierarchy of the aging network includes the U.S. Administration on Aging at the federal level, the Florida Department of Elder Affairs at the state level, and eleven Area Agencies on Aging at the sub-state level.

The aging network also extends to public and private local service providers such as councils on aging, social service departments, multipurpose senior centers, and advocacy groups. These highly visible local organizations translate state and federal monies into tangible community-based services for older individuals. This core structure of the aging network is the foundation for the development of a more comprehensive network which encompasses older persons, consumers of services, national organizations, other federal and state agencies, the private sector, and the general public.

Each part of the network operates from a unique perspective with different expectations which directly or indirectly impact on the lives of older persons, but all work together with the common interest of improving the quality of life for older individuals.