Evidence is mounting that seniors are cutting everyday expenses to keep up with the economic downturn and, as a result, are putting themselves at risk. Experts at the CSRA Area Agency on Aging (AAA), a division of the CSRA Regional Development Center, encourage the community to take swift and positive action to ensure seniors are not sacrificing their health and well-being.

Since its first alert in July 2008, the Agency has seen an increase in the waiting lists for services. In fact, this is a statewide problem. The Georgia Area Agencies on Aging have developed a "Be There 4 Seniors" awareness campaign to educate the public. The goal is to get seniors, families, caregivers, faith communities, and public and private sectors actively involved in helping seniors and persons with disabilities.

How to get involved? Provide transportation for medical appointments, shopping and church. Assist with small repairs, housekeeping, and other services as needed.

"It is important for us to Be There 4 Seniors. We must ensure that they are safe in their homes, eating properly, taking their medications, adhering to necessary appointments, and maintaining a social life," said AAA director Jeanette Cummings.

The Area Agency on Aging serves seniors, individuals with disabilities and caregivers in the following 14 counties: Richmond, Columbia, Burke, Glascock, Hancock, Jefferson, Jenkins, Lincoln, McDuffie, Screven, Taliaferro, Warren, Washington, and Wilkes.