Area Agency On Aging
Southern Oklahoma Area Agency on Aging (AAA)
SODA’s Area Agency on Aging is dedicated to helping adults aged 60 and over live independent, healthy, and dignified lives throughout our 10‑county service area in Southern Oklahoma, including Atoka, Bryan, Carter, Coal, Garvin, Johnston, Love, Marshall, Murray, and Pontotoc counties.
Senior Services in Southern Oklahoma
SODA AAA provides a coordinated continuum of services designed for older adults, caregivers, and persons with disabilities. Our programs include:
Information and Assistance
The Area Agency on Aging (AAA) Information and Assistance program provides free referral services for individuals age 60 and older. This program connects seniors with a broad range of public and private resources, including caregiver support, support groups, home health care, medical and dental services, nutrition programs, senior centers, and transportation options. AAA also publishes a local resource directory, available at no cost to seniors, to help them easily find services in their community.
Nutrition and Supportive Services
Nutritious hot meal services are available throughout all 10 counties in the service area, and 14 Title III Senior Nutrition Centers. Each meal is designed to provide at least one-third of the Recommended Daily Allowance of key nutrients for older adults. Meals are served at congregate nutrition centers or delivered to eligible home-bound individuals. In addition to meals, each center offers social activities and health screenings. Transportation to nutrition centers is available in some areas through local bus systems or senior vans.
The Community Expansion of Nutrition Assistance (CENA) program helps expand meal services and other essential programs offered by independent senior and community centers within the SODA service area. To qualify for CENA funding, centers must have established bylaws, a governing board, and hold regular board meetings, and they must not receive funding under Title III of the Older Americans Act. CENA funds may be used for construction or renovation projects, equipment purchases, insurance, personnel, food, utilities, and transportation-related expenses. Grant applications are submitted through an online application process.
Family Caregiver Services
Caring for a loved one can be one of life’s most rewarding experiences, but it can also be physically, emotionally, and financially challenging. SODA’s Area Agency on Aging supports family caregivers by connecting them with resources, education, and services that make caregiving easier and help loved ones remain safe and independent at home. Family Caregiver Services may include caregiver education and training, respite care, support groups, information and referral, counseling, and assistance in accessing community resources. Whether you are caring for an aging parent, spouse, grandparent, or another adult with care needs, our knowledgeable staff can help you find the support you need. If you or someone you know is providing unpaid care to an older adult, contact SODA’s Area Agency on Aging to learn more about available programs and eligibility. You don’t have to navigate the caregiving journey alone—we’re here to help every step of the way.
Long Term Care Ombudsman
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program supports quality care and quality of life for seniors living in nursing homes, residential care facilities, and assisted living communities. Ombudsman supervisors and trained volunteer ombudsmen advocate on behalf of residents by monitoring conditions, addressing concerns, and working to resolve complaints raised by residents, family members, or friends. By identifying issues and recommending appropriate corrective actions, the program empowers residents to understand and exercise their rights with dignity. Certified volunteer ombudsmen commit to spending approximately two hours per week in their assigned facility.
Medicare Assistance Program
The Senior Health Insurance Counseling Program (SHIP) provides accurate, unbiased counseling, assistance, and advocacy related to Medicare and other health coverage options. Services include guidance on Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare Supplement plans, Medicare Advantage plans, long-term care insurance, and related benefits. SHIP serves Medicare beneficiaries, their representatives, and individuals who are nearing Medicare eligibility.
The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) Program helps older Oklahomans protect themselves from health care fraud, abuse, and waste. The program educates seniors on how to review Medicare Summary Notices, recognize and report suspected fraud, and understand current health care fraud trends. SMP also conducts community presentations and public forums, offers opportunities to become a trained Volunteer Advisor, and provides free educational materials such as brochures, resource lists, and training guides.
The Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) Program focuses on outreach and enrollment assistance for low-income Medicare beneficiaries. MIPPA helps eligible individuals apply for the Medicare Part D Low Income Subsidy and Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs), while also promoting awareness and use of Medicare’s preventive health services.
Masonic Grant Assistance Program
The Masonic Grant Assistance Program (MASON) provides financial assistance to low-income individuals age 60 and older who need help covering the cost of essential services and equipment. Eligible expenses may include eyeglasses, dental care, hearing aids, wheelchair ramps, and other disability-related services.
To apply for a Masonic Grant, applicants should download the Masonic Grant application and instructions. A list of approved service providers is also available for download. If an applicant plans to use a provider that is not currently on the approved list, the new provider must download and complete the required forms for consideration.
Additional Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for AAA services?
Adults aged 60 and over, caregivers, and persons with disabilities can access services.
How do I get a nutrition meal delivered?
Call the Senior Information Line, 800-211-2116, or visit your local Title III Nutrition Center.
What is the difference between SHIP and SMP?
SHIP offers Medicare plan counseling; SMP focuses on fraud prevention and monitoring.