As the Atlanta region experiences growth in different ethnic populations, the most significant growth within those groups is that of persons over the age of 60. The numbers of the 60+ Asian, Vietnamese, Korean, Hispanic, Russian and other ethnic groups is increasing at a much faster rate than their overall population
. In recognition of these growing numbers, the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) Area Agency on Aging for the 10-county region has expanded its outreach efforts to provide information about services for older adults in order to better serve these diverse populations.
Through contractual agreements with ARC, the Center for Pan-Asian Community Services, the Clarkston Community Center and the Jewish Family & Career Services, information and assistance services and outreach services are being provided to a wider array of ethnically diverse communities. Information and assistance specialists at of these agencies are providing telephone and face-to-face consultation and information about programs and services to help older adults live healthy, independent lives. A unique aspect of these efforts is the added component of translation and interpretation services. In some circumstances, translators are available to accompany non-English speaking older adults to medical and other appointments.
In order to link the older adults to appropriate services, each of the agencies use the Aging & Disabilities database containing information about over 20,000 resources for older adults and caregivers in the state of Georgia. An important benefit of the collaboration with agencies who serve ethnically diverse older adults is the input they can provide ARC concerning services they are aware of which may not be in the database.
As more non-English speaking older adults are seeking information, Almaz Akalewold from the Clarkston Community Center notes that, "Working with the ARC in providing this expanded service is adding an important component to our efforts to assist older refugees in their adjustments to living in the United States and their local communities."
For additional information on information and assistance to ethnically diverse older adults, contact Jan Kauffman at 404-463-3239.