The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) in Florida has reported significant progress and developments in its efforts to support the state's senior citizens. Secretary Michelle Branham expressed gratitude for the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady DeSantis, highlighting their crucial support for the agency's initiatives.
“2024 has been a year of building upon and fortifying the foundation of Florida’s aging support network, addressing new challenges, and creating additional opportunities for our older Floridians,” said Secretary Michelle Branham. “I am incredibly grateful for Governor and First Lady DeSantis’ leadership – providing our Agency with crucial and ever-present support that allows us to continue making seniors a top priority in Florida. As we look ahead to 2025, we are ever-more committed and equipped to enhancing the quality of life for all of us as we age in the Sunshine State.”
In May 2024, DOEA launched the Guardianship Investigations Unit (GIU) within its Office of Public & Professional Guardians (OPPG). This unit began operations in August 2024 with five investigators assigned statewide. Since then, it has managed 51 cases and closed 21 investigations.
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program also saw advancements with a new database launch aimed at tracking constituent needs more effectively. The program increased visitations by ombudsmen to facilities housing seniors and introduced a transfer advocate position.
Hope Florida continues to assist seniors through Hope Navigators who help them access essential services. The program experienced over a 50% increase in clients seeking assistance from 1,392 in 2023 to 2,725 by December 13, 2024.
Following hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Activate Hope was initiated to aid affected families. The Department collaborated with state agencies to provide critical resources such as food and water across multiple counties.
Florida invested over $80 million into Alzheimer's disease care last year. This funding supported Memory Disorder Clinics among other services while expanding training programs for direct-care workers reaching over 130,000 participants since its inception in 2023.
Finally, DOEA hosted workshops aiming at improving business acumen within Florida's aging network partners enhancing accountability alongside efficiency measures taken throughout this period under review.