AAA7. You may have seen this acronym or perhaps have heard about it, but not exactly sure what it stands for or what it means.

Although one version of the acronym “AAA” covers automobiles and traveling, the AAA7 stands for the Area Agency on Aging District 7, a non-profit corporation that helps coordinate programs to help older adults and those with disabilities live safely and independently at home through long-term care home and community-based options.

The AAA7 covers 10 counties in southern Ohio including Adams, Brown, Gallia, Highland, Jackson, Lawrence, Pike, Ross, Scioto and Vinton.

Services provided directly through the AAA7, or through contracted community providers, include, but are not limited to information, referral and assistance; personal care and homemaking; respite care; adult day care; assisted living; caregiver support; case management; home repair; transportation; home-delivered meals; community-center meal programs; and linkage to community services.

Depending upon eligibility, income, and other factors, services can be paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, other federal and state resources, as well as private pay.

Through a phone call and in-home assessment at no-cost to you, a specially-trained AAA7 nurse or social worker can engage in an in-depth conversation to help determine the needs of the individual, what they are eligible for, and what programs and services are available in the community to best support their health, safety and well-being.

Individuals who feel they could benefit, or know of someone who could benefit from the services the AAA7 provides, are encouraged to call our toll-free number at 1-800-582-7277.

You will have the opportunity to speak directly with a nurse or social worker who will assist you with information surrounding the programs and services that are available to best serve your needs.

Our caring and competent staff works side-by-side with older adults and their families to arrange long-term care consultations and determine eligibility and resource options for in-home services and a number of other programs that promote safe and independent living at home.

Call us today at 1-800-582-7277 to learn more or you can e-mail us at info@aaa7.org.

Pamela K. Matura is the executive director of the Area Agency on Aging District 7.