Discover How Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) Support You
What Is an Area Agency on Aging (AAA)?
Area Agencies on Aging, or AAAs as they are often called, are trusted local organizations dedicated to helping older adults live with independence and dignity in their homes and communities. Established under the Older Americans Act in 1973, AAAs coordinate a wide range of services that support aging well and help family caregivers manage the challenges of caregiving. There are more than 600 AAAs across the United States, each tailored to meet the specific needs of the older adults and families in their communities.
Learn more about AAAs and share information with others using our fact sheet.
Why Would I Need to Reach Out to a AAA?
There are so many different reasons that people reach out to their local AAA. Here are just a few examples:
- You may have had a fall at home and are worried about it happening again. AAAs have fall prevention programs that can help you feel more safe living on your own.
- You may find that you are having difficulty doing simple tasks around your house, such as laundry, meal preparation or household chores. AAAs can provide you with assistance with these.
- You may have questions about Medicare or Medicaid. AAAs have experts on staff who can help you navigate these complicated programs.
- You may recently have had to stop driving. AAAs are transportation programs so that you can participate in senior center activities or get to crucial medical appointments.
- You might be caring for an elderly parent and find that you are having a hard time doing it by yourself. AAAs can offer respite services.
Every AAA is different. Each one assesses the needs of its own individual community and then tailor services to meet those needs. However, there are some core services that every AAA provides.
Services for Older Adults
AAAs provide vital programs that promote health, safety and independence for older adults, including:
- In-Home Support Services: Help with everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing and light housekeeping.
- Transportation: Rides to medical appointments, grocery stores and community activities.
- Health and Wellness Programs: Classes and workshops that promote physical activity, chronic disease management and fall prevention.
- Benefits Counseling: Assistance navigating Medicare, Medicaid and other public benefits.
- Home-Delivered and Congregate Meals: Nutritious meals delivered to your home or served in community settings.
Services for Caregivers
Caring for a loved one can be rewarding but also overwhelming. AAAs offer support and relief for caregivers through:
- Respite Care: Temporary relief services so caregivers can take a break.
- Training and Education: Workshops and resources to help caregivers build skills and confidence.
- Support Groups and Counseling: Emotional support and connection with others in similar situations.
- Information and Referral Services: Help finding and accessing local resources tailored to your caregiving needs.
| How to Connect With Your Local AAA Use the Eldercare Locator, a free national hotline and website, to connect with your local AAA. You can call 1-800-677-1116 or email eldercarelocator@usaging.org to speak with a specialist who will guide you to the support available in your area. |
Helpful Resources for Older Adults and Caregivers
Explore these trusted tools and materials to support aging well and caregiving with confidence.
Consumer Resources
Browse brochures and fact sheets covering a wide range of topics important to older adults and caregivers—including housing, transportation, financial help and long-term care planning.
➡️ View Consumer Resources
Caregiver Corner
A dedicated space for caregivers featuring guidance, tools and tips to support those caring for aging loved ones.
➡️ Visit the Caregiver Corner
engAGED: Consumer Materials
Access easy-to-use guides and tip sheets from engAGED: The National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults—promoting social connection, wellness and active aging.
➡️ Access engAGED Resources