| SODA’s Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is the visible advocate and counties in providing for a comprehensive and coordinated continuum of services and opportunities so that older people can live dignified, productive and independent lives. The SODA AAA service area includes Atoka, Bryan, Carter, Coal, Garvin, Johnston, Love, Marshall, Murray and Pontotoc Counties in southern Oklahoma. Programs Offered: Long Term Care Ombudsman – Enables ombudsman supervisors to monitor and advocate for quality of care and quality of life for seniors living in long-term care nursing homes, residential care and assisted living facilities. Ombudsman supervisors and ombudsman volunteers attempt to resolve complaints from residents, family and friends by exploring problems and recommending corrective action. The goal is to empower the resident to stand up for their rights and their dignity. Volunteers are trained and certified to spend two hours per week in their assigned facility. Nutrition and Supportive Services – Support nutritious hot meal service in all 10 counties and 14 Title III Senior Nutrition Centers in the SODA service area. The meals provide one-third of Recommended Daily Allowance of nutrients for older persons and are served at the congregate centers or are home-delivered to home-bound individuals only. Activities and health screenings are available at each center. Senior Medical Transportation – Provides medical transportation for seniors 60 years of age and older in Atoka, Bryan, Carter, Coal, Garvin, Johnston, Love, Marshall, Murray and Pontotoc Counties. Our vehicles are ADA-accessible. If you or a loved one are in need of transportation to and from medical appointments, we can provide this service for you at no cost. There are no income restrictions for use of this service. An intake process is required. Please allow for a 24-hour notice following the intake process to allow time to schedule the ride. National Family Caregiver Support Program (respite) – Respite care provides temporary relief for primary caregivers, allowing them to take a break from their caregiving responsibilities while ensuring the care recipient continues to receive necessary care. Also available: Respite care for grandparents raising grandchildren provides a temporary break from their caregiving responsibilities, offering them a chance to rest, relax, or pursue personal needs. Evidence Based Health Promotion Program – Many programs are designed specifically for older adults and are recognized for their effectiveness in promoting health and preventing disease. (Tai-Chi and Matter of Balance Classes). Outreach, Homemaker & Chore Services – Homemaker and chore services are designed to assist individuals, especially seniors or those with disabilities, in maintaining their homes and managing daily tasks that may be difficult or impossible for them to do independently. These services can include housekeeping, laundry, meal preparation, grocery shopping, and other errands. |
