Eldercare Locator: The Fastest Way to Find Local Senior Services

Many of the most useful services for older adults are local rather than federal cash benefits. Eldercare Locator is a public service of the Administration for Community Living that helps people find aging resources in their communities.

What you can look for

Depending on the community, local aging networks may connect residents to nutrition programs, transportation, caregiver support, benefits counseling, legal assistance and other services.

Why Area Agencies on Aging matter

Area Agencies on Aging understand the local service network. A family that has been calling individual charities one by one can often save time by starting with the agency that coordinates or knows the programs serving the area.

What to ask on the first call

• Which programs serve the ZIP code?
• Is there an age, income or functional eligibility requirement?
• Is there a waiting list?
• Does the service charge a fee, request a contribution or operate at no cost?
• What documents should the applicant prepare?

Eldercare Locator is especially useful when the need is practical—rides, meals, caregiver help—not simply a monthly benefit check.

How to Find Senior Transportation Help Near You

Transportation can become a major barrier long before someone needs full-time care. Fortunately, many communities have senior transportation, paratransit, volunteer-driver or reduced-fare programs.

Start with Eldercare Locator

The federal Eldercare Locator can connect you with the Area Agency on Aging serving your community. Ask specifically about transportation rather than simply requesting ‘senior benefits.’

Describe the trip you need

Medical transportation, grocery trips and general social transportation may be handled by different programs. Tell the agency whether the rider uses a wheelchair, needs door-to-door assistance or requires a companion.

Ask these five questions

• What geographic area is served?
• How far in advance must a ride be booked?
• Is there a fare or suggested contribution?
• Can a caregiver ride too?
• Are recurring medical trips allowed?

Medicaid transportation may be separate

People with Medicaid should also ask the state Medicaid program about non-emergency medical transportation when applicable.