Foundation
Established in 1974 as a private, not-for-profit corporation, the Central Illinois Agency on Aging, Inc., DBA Age Central has been steadfast in its mission to plan, fund, and provide services for individuals aged 60 and over. Designated as Planning and Service Area 4 by the Illinois Department on Aging, Age Central serves the counties of Fulton, Marshall, Peoria, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford.
As one of 13 Area Agencies on Aging in Illinois, Age Central operates under the mandates of the Older Americans Act and the Illinois Act on Aging. These agencies are tasked with planning and coordinating services for older adults within their respective regions, ensuring that seniors have access to the resources they need to maintain their independence and quality of life.
Programs and Initiatives
Over the years, Age Central has developed a comprehensive range of programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of the aging population. Each program is designed to support seniors in living independently and with dignity. These services include:
Recognizing the vital role of caregivers, Age Central has also prioritized support for those who provide care to older adults. Through initiatives like the Family Caregiver Resource Center, the agency offers resources, education, and respite services to assist caregivers in their challenging roles.
Commitment to Advocacy
In its commitment to advocacy, Age Central actively engages with local, state, and national organizations to represent the interests of older adults and their caregivers. By participating in policy discussions and collaborating with other agencies, Age Central strives to enhance the services and support systems available to the aging community.
Governing Bodies
Throughout its history, Age Central has been governed by a dedicated Board of Directors and advised by an Area Advisory Council. These bodies, comprising representatives from each of the six counties served, ensure that the agency’s policies and programs are responsive to the needs of the community.
In 2025, reflecting a commitment to modernization and a more inclusive approach, the organization rebranded itself as Age Central.
This new name embodies the agency’s vision to be a centralized resource on aging and disability, emphasizing its role as a hub for information, services, and advocacy for older adults and individuals with disabilities.
Age Central continues to uphold the core values of independence, dignity, and accessibility. By fostering collaborations with local service providers, healthcare systems, and community organizations, the agency ensures a holistic and coordinated approach to service delivery.
The agency remains dedicated to addressing the evolving needs of the aging population. Through continuous community assessments, program development, and advocacy efforts, Age Central strives to enhance the quality of life for seniors and their caregivers in Central Illinois.
As Age Central looks to the future, it remains committed to its mission of promoting independence and self-determination for older persons, adults with disabilities, and their caregivers. By serving as a centralized resource and advocate, the agency aims to empower individuals and strengthen communities throughout its service area.