Iowa Budget Report, Iowa Department of Aging Budgets, 2017

Iowa Department on Aging is the central point of focus in state government regarding elder Iowans under both the federal Older Americans Act and Code of Iowa Chapter 231 and works through Area Agencies on Aging and the Iowa Aging Network to increase the public awareness of issues regarding elder Iowans and availability and access to programs and services to elder Iowans. Advocacy, case management, and a broad array of home and community based services are provided to elders and their caregivers to reduce the incidence of institutional care (nursing homes and other more costly settings) and extend independent living. The mission of the OSDM is to preserve individual independence through a person centered process by educating, providing assistance to public and private substitute decision makers, assisting in substitute decision making proceedings and providing substitute decision making services in the least restrictive manner. Additionally, long-term care ombudsman services provide advocacy for elders in nursing homes and similar health care settings; all related to health, safety, and well-being