Aging

AARP is the nation's leading organization for people age 50 or older. It serves their needs and interests through information and education, advocacy, and community services which are provided by a network of local chapters and experienced volunteers throughout the country.

The Area Agency on Aging of Dane County and its Board of Directors the Commission on Aging are responsible for advocacy, planning, and policy development on behalf of Dane County's elderly population.

It is the mission of the Area Agency on Aging to create and promote opportunities for communication among the aging community, their elected representatives, public and private planners, and providers of service. The Board/Commission advises the county executive on issues affecting older adults. It acts as the access point for information on the elders cultural diversity committees' efforts to eliminate barriers which inhibit participation of cultural diverse elders in the aging network.

The Bureau of Consumer Protection enforces state consumer protection laws, provides complaint information, mediates individual complains, provides community outreach and free public information/education materials.

The Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups is a federation of 630 member groups who are interested in legislative advocacy to bring about a better quality of life for elders and future generations of Wisconsin citizens. Coalition's Elder Law Center provides legal back up and assistance to 58 county benefit specialists.

SOS is a not-for-profit organization of about 700 members that organizes, educates, and advocates for elderly people.

Activities include a monthly newsletter, membership meetings, legislative and housing committees, and a health program.

The Elder Law Center devotes resources to research, investigation, & public education on general issues of elder law, and provides direct services on issues of public benefits and health care financing to Dane County seniors age 60 and older.

ELC is committed to public education efforts through talks to specific groups, training for elders and other service providers, newsletter articles, printed educational materials, and legislative advocacy.

Grandparents United for Children's Rights is an agency whose purpose is to be proactive on issues affecting grandparent and grandchild relationships. These include kin care, visitation, custody, guardianship and adoption.

Madison Senior Services, a division of Community Services, provides advocacy and information/referral for older adults and their families regarding city-funded services.

A Senior Citizens Advisory Committee advises the mayor, common council, and other city departments. The division provides funding for senior services, i.e., outreach/case management, senior centers, volunteer home chore services, employment counseling and placement services.

Dane County Veterans Service Office assists veterans and their families in obtaining state and federal benefits. They also are an intake point for application to the Wisconsin Veterans home at King, Wisconsin in Waupaca County.