(1) The general assembly hereby finds and declares that, while numerous programs and services are available for the aged, their access to such programs and services is often fragmented due to a lack of knowledge and information, and, as a result, needs which could be met are not. The general assembly further finds that compiling a single information packet on all programs and services would assist the aged in utilizing these programs and services more effectively.
(2) (a) To assist the aged in utilizing existing programs and services for which they may become eligible at sixty-two years of age or older, the state department shall compile a list of all such programs at the federal, state, and local level.
The state department shall supervise the compilation of an information packet containing information on the said programs and services, their eligibility requirements, mode of delivery, and application forms, and shall make a single copy of the compiled information available to specified local agencies serving the aged, including the county departments of human or social services and the area agencies on aging.
The packet shall contain only the listing of federal, state, and local services and programs, referral agencies, information pamphlets, and application forms. It shall not contain any materials which represent or promote the aims of private agencies or organizations.
(3) The designated local agencies shall:
Provide appropriate assistance to individuals utilizing the information packet; and
Coordinate client referrals to community agencies serving the aged and to institutional and noninstitutional programs, services, and activities within the community, as appropriate.
Source: L. 91: Entire section added, p. 1854, § 2, effective April 11. L. 2018: (2)(b) amended, (SB 18-092), ch. 38, p. 451, § 134, effective August 8.
Cross references: For the legislative declaration in SB 18-092, see section 1 of chapter 38, Session Laws of Colorado 2018.