Policy Advocacy to Improve the Lives of Older Adults | High Country Area Agency on Aging

Advocacy is the act or process of supporting a cause or proposal. Through the direction of the Older Americans Act, Area Agencies on Aging are charged with advocating for the needs and wellbeing of older adults. Our advocacy work includes informing constituents of current issues and policy, communication with elected officials about the needs of older adults, and coordination of advocacy events and outreach.

You can stay connected by following the advocacy alerts of USAging and AARP. Let your voice be heard, by reaching out to your elected officials about issues that you find important.

Find your elected officials:

Senior Tar Heel Legislature

Established in 1993 by the NC General Assembly, the North Carolina Senior Tar Heel Legislature (STHL) gives older adults a direct voice in the legislative process. Its goals are to educate seniors on legislative matters, promote advocacy on aging issues, and assess senior needs through a forum modeled after the General Assembly.
Each of North Carolina’s 100 counties appoints one delegate and one alternate, all aged 60 or older. The unicameral body meets statewide three times a year — in March, June, and October — and submits an annual report outlining its priorities.
The NC Division of Aging and Adult Services supports the STHL in partnership with the High Country Area Agency on Aging, which helps counties select their representatives.

For additional information about the NC Senior Tar Heel Legislature and our regional delegates, contact Zack Green at 828-265-5434 ext. 122 or zgreen@hccog.org.

USAging

usaging As the national association representing Area Agencies on Aging, USAging advocates for federal policies that strengthen services and supports for older adults and caregivers. Through leadership, education, and policy engagement, USAging helps communities nationwide meet the evolving needs of aging populations.

View USAging Policy Priorities

North Carolina Association on Aging (NCAOA)

north carolina association on aging NCAOA is a statewide network of professionals and organizations dedicated to improving the lives of older North Carolinians. Through advocacy, education, and collaboration, NCAOA supports aging services, promotes best practices, and advances policies that enhance the health, independence, and well-being of older adults across the state.

View NCAOA’s Advocacy

National Council on Aging

ncoa national council on aging NCOA is a trusted national leader working to ensure that every older adult can age with health and financial security. Through advocacy, innovative programs, and partnerships, NCOA empowers older Americans — especially those in greatest need — to access benefits, improve well-being, and remain independent in their communities.

View NCOA’s Policy Positions

Friends of Residents

Friends of Residents in Long Term Care is an independent nonprofit working to improve the lives of long-term care residents across North Carolina. Through advocacy, education, and partnerships, FOR supports individuals in nursing homes, assisted living, continuing care retirement communities, and home health care.

View FOR's Policy Priorities