GENERAL FUNCTIONS OF DEPARTMENT RELATED TO AGING SERVICES.

(a) The department shall provide expertise and advice to state agencies and the legislature and other elected officials on aging issues, including recommendations to meet the needs of this state's elderly population.

(b) The department shall develop and strengthen the services available for the aged in the state by coordinating services provided by governmental and private agencies and facilities.

(c) The department shall extend and expand services for the aged by coordinating the interest and efforts of local communities in studying the problems of the aged citizens of this state.

(d) The department shall encourage, promote, and aid in the establishment of area agencies on aging for the development of programs and services on a local level that improve the living conditions of the aged by enabling them to more fully enjoy and participate in family and community life.

(e) The department shall sponsor voluntary community rehabilitation and recreational facilities to improve the general welfare of the aged.

(f) The department shall cooperate with state and federal agencies and other organizations in conducting studies and surveys on the special problems of the aged in matters such as mental and physical health, housing, family relationships, employment, income, vocational rehabilitation, recreation, transportation, insurance, legal rights, and education. The department shall make appropriate reports and recommendations to the governor and to state and federal agencies.

(g) The department shall conduct research and long-range planning regarding long-term care, community care, and other issues that affect elderly individuals.

(h) The department shall make recommendations to the governor, the legislature, and state agencies regarding:

(1) opportunities to coordinate programs for elderly individuals;

(2) unnecessary duplication in providing services to elderly individuals; and

(3) gaps in services to elderly individuals.

(i) The department shall:

(1) cooperate with the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs to provide affordable housing for elderly individuals and for families in which an elderly individual is head of the household;

(2) assess the need for housing for elderly individuals and for families in which an elderly individual is head of the household in different localities;

(3) set standards relating to the design and construction of housing for elderly individuals;

(4) provide planning assistance to builders; and

(5) publicize the availability of the housing program to potential developers and residents.