The Older Americans Act of 1965 laid the foundation for the development of services that make it easier for older persons to live independently in their own homes and communities. The Act established a national aging network designed to respond to the needs of older adults. This network includes the U.S. Administration on Aging, State Units on Aging and more than 650 Area Agencies on Aging throughout the United States.

West Alabama Regional Commission was designated as the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for West Alabama in 1973. For more than thirty-five years the Area Agency has assessed the needs of older persons in the seven-county region covering Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Pickens and Tuscaloosa counties; distributed funds for the provision of services to older adults; helped agencies and local governments plan services for older persons; and provided information about available resources to older adults and their caregivers. Staff of the Area Agency on Aging are available to assist seniors and their families in coordinating resources and services that will enable the older adult to maintain their independence as long as possible.

Programs offered through the Area Agency on Aging are broad and inclusive. Depending upon individual circumstances, an older adult in West Alabama can receive advice on health insurance, legal counseling, a home-delivered meal, help with household chores, discounted prescription medications, placement in a part-time job and many other services.

Through direct services and contracts with various service providing agencies throughout the region, WARC provides numerous programs and services designed to meet the needs of older West Alabamians.