Origins and purpose of Title III funding
Title III funding is a core component of the Older Americans Act (OAA) of 1965, federal legislation passed in response to concerns about the lack of social services for older Americans. The primary purpose of Title III is to assist state and local agencies in developing and coordinating community-based systems that provide a continuum of person-centered services. These services aim to promote the well-being of older adults and enable them to maintain their independence within their homes and communities.
Congress created a nationwide network to administer the OAA's programs. This "Aging Network" includes:
- The federal Administration for Community Living (ACL)
- State Units on Aging (SUAs)
- 665 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) across the country
- Thousands of local service providers
Federal funds for Title III are first allocated to SUAs based on a statutory formula that considers a state's proportion of the older population. The SUAs then distribute these funds to AAAs using intrastate funding formulas that prioritize older adults with the greatest economic and social need. This structure ensures that services reach those who need them most, including low-income individuals, minorities, those with limited English proficiency, and those living in rural areas.
Core categories of Title III services
Title III is organized into distinct sections that fund different types of services. The four primary categories are supportive services, nutrition services, disease prevention and health promotion, and caregiver support.
Supportive Services (Title III-B)
This category provides a wide range of social services to help older adults remain in their homes and communities and is a foundational component of the OAA. Services funded under Title III-B include:
- Information and Assistance
- Case Management
- Transportation
- In-Home Services
- Legal Assistance
Nutrition Services (Title III-C)
Title III-C is designed to reduce hunger and food insecurity, promote better health through nutrition, and combat social isolation. The program consists of two main parts:
- Congregate Meals (Title III-C1): Hot meals served in a group setting, offering opportunities for socialization.
- Home-Delivered Meals (Title III-C2): Meals delivered to homebound older adults.
Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (Title III-D)
This section funds evidence-based programs effective for older adults, aiming to reduce the need for more costly medical interventions. Examples include chronic disease self-management, fall prevention, and wellness programs.
National Family Caregiver Support Program (Title III-E)
This program supports unpaid family caregivers of older adults and older individuals raising minor children or those with disabilities. Services include:
- Counseling and support groups
- Training for caregivers
- Respite care for temporary relief
Comparison of Title III service categories
To better understand the distinct focus of each major Title III program, review the table below outlining their primary purpose and target audience.
| Feature | Title III-B: Supportive Services | Title III-C: Nutrition Services | Title III-E: Caregiver Support | Title III-D: Prevention/Health Promotion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Promote independence and access to services within the community. | Reduce food insecurity and social isolation for older adults. | Provide relief and resources to unpaid family caregivers. | Reduce the impact of chronic disease and prevent health issues. |
| Services Included | Case management, transportation, homemaker, legal aid, senior centers. | Congregate and home-delivered meals, nutrition education. | Counseling, support groups, respite care, caregiver training. | Evidence-based programs for chronic disease, falls, and wellness. |
| Target Population | Adults aged 60+ (prioritizes those with greatest economic/social need). | Adults aged 60+ (targets those at high nutrition risk and low-income). | Family caregivers of older adults, and older relatives raising minor children. | Adults aged 60+. |
| Eligibility | Age-based (60+); no income requirement, but priority is given to those with greater need. | Age-based (60+); no income test, but targeting is emphasized for home-delivered meals. | Caregiver must be providing care for an eligible older adult. | Age-based (60+); participation in evidence-based programs. |
How to find and apply for Title III services
Title III services are delivered at the state and local levels through the Aging Network. The primary entry point for older adults, caregivers, and their families to find services is their local Area Agency on Aging (AAA).
Steps to find local resources:
- Use the Eldercare Locator: Call 1-800-677-1116 or visit the website at https://eldercare.acl.gov/ to connect with your local AAA.
- Contact your local AAA directly: Information and Assistance specialists can assess your needs and make referrals.
- Inquire about specific programs: Mention the service you seek; they can provide details on local eligibility and availability.
Conclusion
Title III of the Older Americans Act is a cornerstone of support for older adults, providing grants for essential services, nutritious meals, health promotion, and caregiver support. It funds the nationwide Aging Network, ensuring diverse programs are available to help seniors age in place. Despite funding challenges, Title III remains a crucial resource, accessible through local Area Agencies on Aging, helping seniors maintain independence and quality of life.
