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Commission urges seniors to use utahaging.org, highlights partners and service gaps
Summary
Rob Anz of the Utah Commission on Aging urged older adults to use utahaging.org and described a "no wrong door" approach to connect people to Meals on Wheels, SHIP counseling and other partners; he also noted accessibility gaps and funding risks for long-term care.
The Utah Commission on Aging emphasized practical ways older Utahns can find services and support, directing listeners to the commission's online hub utahaging.org and describing a "no wrong door" navigation approach. Rob Anz, the commission's executive director, said the site collates research, policy background and contact information so residents and caregivers can find help quickly.
Anz said the commission relies on a broad partner network—area agencies on aging, municipal leaders, nonprofit providers and academic researchers—to deliver services such as Meals on Wheels, respite care and SHIP counseling that helps people navigate Medicare and other insurance choices. "If an individual needs an advance directive, if somebody is looking for services to help them with their caregiving needs at home, if they know an agency to go to that has sent, they should go directly there," he said, adding that utahaging.org can guide people who do not know where to start.
Accessibility gaps were raised: Anz said audio resources currently serve many constituents, but resources for deaf and hard-of-hearing residents (signing) and for braille are limited. He called expanding those services a priority so "we don't leave anyone out." The commission also recognizes fraud and scams as a growing risk for older adults using technology, and Anz emphasized safe technology use and digital literacy as part of the commission's work.
On funding, Anz warned that federal streams such as the Older Americans Act and changes to Medicare or Medicaid could affect the capacity of local service providers. "The biggest challenge is to have enough to have adequate resources to meet the demand of the population," he said, adding that long-term care insurance is expensive and not a complete solution for many families.
The commission encouraged listeners to contact partner agencies directly or to visit utahaging.org for a centralized directory and guidance. Anz invited further public conversations and said the commission will continue outreach to improve access and close gaps in services.
