Advocates

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The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) was created to provide a comprehensive array of aging and disability services, supports and opportunities that are easily accessed in local communities. Their key responsibilities to the citizens of Texas include:

 

• Working in partnership with consumers, caregivers, service providers and other stakeholders.

• Developing and improving service options that are responsive to individual needs and preferences.

• Ensuring and protecting self-determination, consumer rights and safety.

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HHSC provides and contracts for long-term care services and supports to eligible older Texans and to children or adults with cognitive and physical disabilities. HHSC also regulates facilities and agencies and credentials staff working in facilities and agencies.

 

Area Agency on Aging (AAA)  Who Are We?

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In the nine county Middle Rio Grande region, HHSC works in conjunction with the Area Agency on Aging (AAA), which is a local social services agency solely dedicated to improving the lives of the elderly in our area. AAA’s main goal is to help those in the region to remain healthy, independent, and actively involved in their communities. Services available through AAA range from nutrition services to personal care and educational information specific to the elderly. Services are targeted to persons 60 years of age or older, including individuals who are Medicare Recipients.

 

AAA staff are trained and certified to provide information regarding many issues including Medicare/Medicaid, Long Term Care Facilities,  Resident Rights, and much more. Our Access & Assistance staff can assist in obtaining services that may be available through Federal, State, or local programs for either yourself, a family member or a friend. Our staff are available to help you get more information and to learn about our services.

 

Service Eligibility and Availability​

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• Individuals 60 years of age or older

• Under 60 with Medicare

• Older individuals with greatest economic and social need.

• In addition, family members and caregivers may receive information and services on behalf of the older individual for whom they are providing care for.

 

All services are based on need and not necessarily on want.  Services will be delivered only if funding is available and assessment of priority of need.