Code of Maryland Regulations Title 32 - MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF AGING

CODE OF MARYLAND REGULATIONS

TITLE 32 – MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF AGING

SUBTITLE 01

GENERAL PROVISIONS

COMAR 32.01.01

Authority and Purpose

These regulations are adopted under the authority granted to the Maryland Department of Aging by state law. They establish policies, procedures, and standards for the administration of programs and services for older adults and their caregivers in Maryland.

COMAR 32.01.02

Definitions

For the purposes of this Title:

Department: The Maryland Department of Aging.

Secretary: The Secretary of the Maryland Department of Aging or designee.

Older adult: An individual aged 60 or older.

Caregiver: A person providing care or support to an older adult.

Program: Any service, activity, or initiative administered or funded by the Department.

SUBTITLE 02

PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION

COMAR 32.02.01

Program Eligibility

Eligibility for services and programs administered by the Department is determined by age, residency, income, or other criteria established by law or regulation.

COMAR 32.02.02

Application for Services

Individuals seeking services must submit applications or requests using forms prescribed by the Department. Required documentation may include proof of age, residency, income, or other qualifying information.

COMAR 32.02.03

Service Provision

The Department shall ensure that services are delivered in a manner that promotes dignity, independence, and well-being of older adults. Services may include health and wellness programs, caregiver support, nutrition, transportation, and social services.

SUBTITLE 03

FUNDING AND GRANTS

COMAR 32.03.01

Grant Programs

The Department may provide grants to organizations or entities that deliver services to older adults or their caregivers. Grant applications must meet criteria and guidelines established by the Department.

COMAR 32.03.02

Use of Funds

Funds provided through Department grants must be used only for authorized purposes. Recipients must maintain accurate records of expenditures and submit reports as required.

COMAR 32.03.03

Monitoring and Compliance

The Department shall monitor funded programs for compliance with regulations, grant terms, and applicable state and federal laws. Noncompliance may result in corrective action, suspension, or termination of funding.

SUBTITLE 04

ELDER RIGHTS AND PROTECTIONS

COMAR 32.04.01

Elder Abuse Reporting

All staff, contractors, and program participants must report suspected elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation in accordance with state law. Reports shall be submitted to the appropriate protective services agency.

COMAR 32.04.02

Confidentiality

Information collected in the administration of programs must be maintained confidentially, except as required for reporting abuse, audits, or compliance with law.

SUBTITLE 05

RECORDS, REPORTS, AND EVALUATION

COMAR 32.05.01

Records Retention

The Department and its contractors must maintain program records in accordance with Maryland State Archives schedules and Department policy.

COMAR 32.05.02

Reporting Requirements

Programs must submit periodic reports to the Department, including data on service delivery, participant demographics, outcomes, and financial expenditures.

COMAR 32.05.03

Program Evaluation

The Department may evaluate programs to assess effectiveness, efficiency, and compliance. Evaluation results may guide policy, funding, or regulatory changes.

SUBTITLE 06

EFFECTIVE DATE AND AMENDMENTS

COMAR 32.06.01

These regulations shall become effective upon filing and publication. They may be amended or repealed by the Department in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act and applicable state law.

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