Many states have programs to pay for home and community-based long-term care services for older adults, generally 60 and older, and their families. States often draw on funds from county, state and federal sources such as the Older Americans Act. The focus of these programs is to help older adults remain in the community as independently as possible. States administer these services through state and local agency networks known as the Aging Network, and include:

• Nutrition programs such as home-delivered meals for homebound elderly or meals served in community settings
• Transportation services
• Health promotion services to help prevent disease or manage chronic illnesses
• Personal care assistance and help with household chores and shopping
• Legal assistance and services that protect the rights of older persons such as the long-term care ombudsman program
• Family caregiver services and supports including time off from their responsibility, called respite care

While the financial eligibility criteria for these programs differ by state and by program, they are generally targeted for low-income, frail seniors over age 60, minority older adults, and seniors living in rural areas. Specific funds are often set aside for Native American older adults.

Local agencies, called Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), work with State Units on Aging (SUAs) to plan and develop service and support programs based on the needs of older adults and families. More information on how to connect with your local Area Agency on Aging is available on the Administration for Community Living website.

There are several databases available to you to locate services in your state:

Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs)

Where available, each state in the map links to a long-term care resource database maintained by that state for its ADRC. These centers serve as single points of entry into the long-term supports and services system for older adults and people with disabilities.

Eldercare Locator

The Eldercare Locator provides information and links to resources that enable older persons to live independently in their communities. This public service website links to state and local Area Agencies on Aging and community-based organizations that serve older adults and their caregivers.

Centers for Independent Living (CILs)

CILs provide access to resources for people with disabilities that empower individuals to live independently in their communities. Independent Living Research Utilization (ILRU) provides a national database of centers for independent living, and statewide independent living councils. It is updated weekly.