The Older Americans Act of 1965 requires Area Agencies on Aging to establish an advisory council consisting of older individuals to advise the Area Agency on all matters relating to the development of an area/regional plan on aging, the administration of the plan and the operations conducted under the plan.  At least 51% of advisory council members must be age 60+ and include minority individuals and individuals residing in rural areas. Advisory Council Members are appointed by County Commissions from each of the four counties that comprise Region E (Alexander, Burke, Caldwell and Catawba).

  

The current council consists of 16 members who assist the Area Agency on Aging by providing direction for programming and services for adults age 60 and over that reside in the region.  The council meets quarterly at the Western Piedmont Council of Governments in Hickory.  Council members serve as the “eyes and ears” of their communities and must be aware of the needs of older adults in their respective counties as well as being familiar with existing services/programs that may prove beneficial to the senior population.