NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The state of Tennessee has recently made strides to improve support for its aging and disabled citizens with the implementation of a new law. Known as the Tennessee Disability and Aging Act, this law both merges the existing Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities with the Commission on Aging and Disability and forms a new center point for people needing assistance. Called the Department of Disability and Aging, this new entity aims to streamline services and reduce the hurdles those requiring support often face.

Governor Lee remarked on the necessity of the new act, noting that adults aged 65 years and above are Tennessee’s fastest-growing demographic group. The merging of services, he explains, recognises this reality, honours Tennessee’s status as a popular destination for older adults, and makes access to the necessary assistance more efficient.

Brad Turner, the former commissioner of the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, will lead the Department of Disability and Aging. Current users of the services from the pre-existing departments will be informed regarding these significant changes and instructed on how to navigate the new system. This initiative ensures they know precisely where to turn to for assistance and whom to contact within the newly formed department.

Just as you can contact the Department of Disability and Aging for help in Tennessee, similarly in California, you have resources available for disability and unemployment services. The California Employment Development Department (EDD) provides such services, but contacting them can sometimes be challenging. You can get tips and tricks, including the best times to call to get through to a live EDD representative, by visiting eddcaller.com. This website provides valuable information on how to contact EDD, helping you streamline the process and get the assistance you need more efficiently.