The Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) serves as the state's central administrative body dedicated to improving the lives of older Ohioans and adults with disabilities. Rather than providing all services directly, the ODA primarily fosters public policy, manages funding, and coordinates with 12 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) across the state to deliver services at the local level. This decentralized approach ensures that resources are tailored to the specific needs of different communities.
Home and Community-Based Care
One of the ODA's primary functions is to help seniors avoid institutional care, such as nursing homes, by providing support that allows them to live independently in their homes and communities.
In-home assistance
Medicaid waiver programs, including the PASSPORT program and the Assisted Living Waiver, are crucial components of this effort. These waivers fund services for eligible individuals who require a nursing-home level of care but prefer to receive assistance at home or in an assisted living facility. Services often include:
- Personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming)
- Housekeeping
- Home-delivered meals
- Adult day services
- Transportation
- Minor home repairs and modifications
- Emergency response systems
Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)
The ODA also oversees the PACE program, which offers comprehensive medical and social services to qualifying seniors. PACE provides a full-time, interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals to coordinate care, including doctors, dietitians, and home-care providers, all in one place.
Financial and Benefits Assistance
Navigating the complexities of healthcare and financial programs can be difficult for seniors. The ODA and its partners offer guidance to ensure older adults receive the benefits for which they are eligible.
Golden Buckeye Program
Perhaps the most well-known program administered by the ODA is the Golden Buckeye Card. This program provides cardholders—older adults and people with disabilities—with discounts and special offers at participating Ohio businesses. The program encourages cardholders to remain loyal customers while helping them save money on various goods and services.
Benefits counseling and eligibility
Local AAAs, working with the ODA, provide no-cost, unbiased counseling on Medicare and other benefits through programs like OSHIIP (Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program). They help seniors understand their insurance options and apply for assistance programs such as HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).
Caregiver and Family Support
The ODA recognizes that families are often the primary providers of long-term care and offers extensive resources to support them. The National Family Caregiver Support Program funds local agencies to provide services including:
- Counseling and support groups for caregivers
- Respite care to give caregivers a temporary break
- Training to help caregivers improve their skills
Advocacy and Elder Justice
Protecting the rights and welfare of older Ohioans is a core function of the ODA. Through its Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, the department advocates for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Ombudsmen investigate complaints and work to resolve problems related to quality of care and resident rights. The ODA is also a key partner in addressing elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
Health, Wellness, and Engagement
The department promotes healthy aging and active living through various programs that help seniors stay engaged and connected to their communities.
- Health and Safety Classes: The HEALTHY U and STEADY U initiatives offer evidence-based programs focusing on chronic disease self-management and falls prevention.
- Nutrition Services: Local AAAs coordinate home-delivered meals and senior dining sites, ensuring older adults have access to nutritious food.
- Volunteer Opportunities: The ODA encourages civic engagement by connecting seniors with volunteer roles that allow them to contribute their skills and remain active.
Comparison of Key ODA-Supported Programs
| Feature | PASSPORT Waiver | Assisted Living Waiver | Golden Buckeye Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Provides in-home and community-based care for Medicaid-eligible seniors who need a nursing-home level of care. | Offers long-term care services to eligible seniors in an assisted living facility or residential care home. | Provides discounts and special offers at Ohio businesses to help seniors and people with disabilities save money. |
| Key Benefits | Home-delivered meals, personal care, transportation, home modifications. | Personal care, medication management, housekeeping, social activities. | Retail discounts, restaurant savings, and service offers at thousands of participating locations. |
| Eligibility | Must be 60+ and meet specific financial and care-need criteria for Medicaid. | Must be 60+ and meet specific financial and care-need criteria for Medicaid. | Open to all Ohioans aged 60 and older, or adults with disabilities. |
| Location | Services delivered in a private home or community setting. | Services provided within a participating assisted living facility. | Usable at participating businesses across Ohio. |
| Waitlist | Has an enrollment limit, so eligible applicants may be placed on a waitlist. | Waitlists vary by facility, not centrally managed. | No waitlist; instant benefit with card. |
How to get started with ODA services
To begin accessing services, seniors or their family members can contact their local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). The ODA provides a toll-free number, 1-866-243-5678, to connect callers with the correct regional AAA, or users can find a local office online. The AAA will conduct an assessment to determine eligibility for various programs and help coordinate services.
Conclusion
The Ohio Department of Aging plays a critical role in supporting older adults and their families throughout the state. By administering and funding a broad network of local agencies, the ODA ensures that seniors have access to vital resources for health, independence, and quality of life. From long-term care options like PASSPORT and the Assisted Living Waiver to the widely popular Golden Buckeye program and crucial caregiver support, the department and its partners provide a comprehensive system of assistance. The ODA's focus on home- and community-based care, advocacy, and healthy living initiatives allows older Ohioans to maintain their dignity and independence, making Ohio a better place to age. For anyone seeking help, the local Area Agency on Aging is the primary point of contact for navigating the available programs.
