Advocacy:

The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan encourages advocacy supporting the needs of all older Americans generally, and specifically those in Western Michigan.

• Advocacy includes contact with local, state and federal legislators and officials by letter, phone, fax, e-mail and face-to-face. Advocacy efforts may also include attending hearings and giving testimony.
• Senior advocacy is non-partisan. 

The Federal Older Americans Act requires AAAs to undertake advocacy efforts on behalf of elders.  

• AAAs advocate for new programs for the elderly, more funds for existing programs, public policies that benefit the elderly, and assist older adults in advocating for themselves