Area Agency on Aging outlines FY2026 implementation plan; highlights dementia support and home‑modification grants

Christine Van Landingham, chief executive officer of Region 4 Area Agency on Aging (AAA), and Amanda Drew, the agency’s planning and community development manager, presented the AAA’s fiscal year 2026 implementation plan to the Berrien County Board of Commissioners.

Van Landingham described the AAA’s role as a regional planner and hub for services across Berrien, Cass and Van Buren counties and noted the agency’s focus on helping older adults live with independence and dignity. She told commissioners the region won a national innovation award for an in‑home behavioral‑health counseling service developed in partnership with local providers and said the AAA’s CEO was recognized with a national leadership award.

Drew reviewed FY2026 priorities and data. She said 28.6% of the tri‑county population is age 60 or older — more than 80,000 people — a share higher than the Michigan and national averages. The AAA cited recent accomplishments: a HUD older‑adults home‑modification grant of $1,000,000 to serve low‑income older adults and people with disabilities; CMS approval to deliver a specialist dementia care model (Guide); veteran‑connector status to improve veteran services; and other grants and partnerships.

Planned work for 2026 includes a marketing campaign to highlight caregivers; continued development of a direct‑care workforce coalition; dementia education for specific sectors (first responders, businesses, volunteers); dementia friend workshops across all three counties; and implementation of a new caregiver case‑management service that will provide in‑home supports directly to caregivers.

Drew also described ongoing operational work: information and assistance at trusted local locations, bimonthly partner network meetings with more than 40 partners, transportation advisory participation, and a caregiver community needs assessment involving 159 caregivers. She said the AAA delivers services through a mix of agency programs, contracted partners and purchased services and that payment rates and funding allocations remain a challenge given inflation and workforce shortages.

Commissioners praised the AAA’s outreach and partnerships and thanked staff for the agency’s work. Van Landingham said the AAA’s FY2026 implementation plan will go to the regional Commission on Aging for endorsement in September; she asked the county commission to consider support and partnership.

Ending: Materials were provided in the meeting packet and are posted on the AAA website; commissioners were invited to attend dementia‑friend workshops and other community events.