Established pursuant to §§ 51.5-127 and 51.5-128 of the Code of Virginia, the CCOA promotes an efficient, coordinated approach by state government to meeting the needs of older Virginians. The CCOA supports communities that are accessible, livable, age-friendly, and promote independence. Among its duties and activities, the CCOA:
- Examines the needs of older Virginians and their caregivers and ways in which state government can most effectively and efficiently assist in meeting those needs;
- Advises the Governor and General Assembly on aging issues and aging policy;
- Advocates for and assists in developing the Commonwealth's planning for meeting the needs of the growing number of older Virginians and their caregivers; and
- Assists and advises the Department regarding strategies to improve nutritional health, alleviate hunger, and prevent malnutrition among older adults.
The Council has 19 appointed members and five ex-officio members. The Governor appoints 11 members, one from each of Virginia’s congressional districts. Of the remaining eight at-large members, four are appointed by the Speaker of the House of Delegates and four by the Senate Rules Committee. Click here for a list of Council Members.
The Council on Aging prepares an annual report for the Governor and General Assembly. You may review the Council's current report.
The Council meets quarterly and all meetings are open to the public. Meetings of the Council and each of its committees are announced in advance on the Commonwealth Calendar as well as on the DARS website. Minutes of recent meetings are also available on the DARS website.
For information on a specific Council or committee meeting, or for any questions, contact Sara Stowe at 804-910-5803 or email her at sara.stowe@dars.virginia.gov.