Finding free local help: Area Agencies on Aging and the Eldercare Locator
Every community has public agencies that help older adults stay at home and support the people who care for them. This guide explains what an Area Agency on Aging does, how to use the Eldercare Locator and what to ask when you call.
General information only. This guide is not medical, legal or financial advice. Talk with a physician, and with an elder-law or financial professional where money or legal papers are involved, about your own situation.
What an Area Agency on Aging does
An Area Agency on Aging is a local office that knows the services for older adults in its area. Many families start there when they need help at home.
The Eldercare Locator and your local agency can point you to services such as:
- Home-delivered meals and meals at community sites
- Rides to appointments and errands
- In-home help with chores or personal care
- Referrals for help with bills and paperwork
- Support for family caregivers
Using the Eldercare Locator
The Eldercare Locator is a public service of the Administration for Community Living. It connects older adults and families with local help, such as in-home help, transportation and home safety changes. It can also share information about paying for care.
You can reach trained staff in several ways:
- Call or text 1-800-677-1116
- Chat online at eldercare.acl.gov
- Search by location on the website's Find a Resource page
- Send an email through the website
Support for family caregivers
The National Family Caregiver Support Program funds help for family members who care for an older relative. States run it, so what is offered varies by place.
Services can include:
- Information about local services
- Help getting those services
- Counseling and caregiver training
- Respite care, so the caregiver can take a break
- Some extra services, on a limited basis
What to ask when you call
Have the person's town or ZIP code ready, and a short list of what they need. Then ask:
- Which services are available where the person lives?
- Who qualifies, and is there a waiting list?
- Is there a cost, a fee or a suggested donation?
- Is there help or training for family caregivers?
- Who should I contact next, and how?
Frequently asked questions
No. Older adults, family members and other caregivers can all use it to find help.
Some services are free, and some ask for a donation or charge a fee. Some programs have rules based on age, mobility or need, so ask when you call.
Yes. Long-distance caregivers can search for resources in the older person's community, online or by phone.
Sources
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