Area Agencies on Aging in Alabama

Complete Guide to Area Agencies on Aging in Alabama (2026)

Last updated: January 17, 2026

If You Need Emergency Help

Call 911 immediately if you or someone you know is in immediate danger, experiencing a medical emergency, or being abused or neglected.

For urgent aging or disability assistance:

• Alabama AGE-LINE: 1-800-243-5463 (1-800-AGELINE) – 24/7 statewide hotline
• Adult Protective Services: 334-242-1310 – Report elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 – Free, confidential support
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 – Mental health crisis support

For immediate food assistance:

• Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for emergency food programs
• 211 Alabama – Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency resources

Key Takeaways

• Alabama has 13 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serving all 67 counties across the state
• All services are free or low-cost for seniors 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• Call 1-800-AGELINE to connect with your local AAA – this single number works statewide
• Each AAA operates an Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) – your one-stop shop for help
• No income requirements for basic information and assistance services
• Most AAAs provide home-delivered meals, transportation, legal help, and Medicare counseling
• Medicaid waiver programs can help you stay in your home instead of moving to a nursing facility

What Are Area Agencies on Aging?

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are local organizations that coordinate and provide essential services for older adults and people with disabilities. Created under the federal Older Americans Act in 1973, these agencies serve as the backbone of Alabama’s aging services network.

Think of your local AAA as a command center for senior services. They don’t just provide direct services – they also plan, coordinate, and fund programs throughout their region. Each AAA serves multiple counties and works with local nonprofits, government agencies, and community organizations to deliver services where you live.

In Alabama, all 13 AAAs also operate as Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) through a program called “One Door Alabama.” This means you can call any AAA for help with aging, disability, or caregiving questions, regardless of your age or income level.

The Alabama Department of Senior Services oversees all AAAs in the state and provides funding through federal, state, and local sources. Each AAA develops a four-year area plan that identifies local needs and outlines how they’ll address them.

Alabama’s 13 Area Agencies on Aging: Complete Directory

Note: Director names and some contact information may change. Always verify current details by calling 1-800-AGELINE.

Core Services Provided by Alabama AAAs

Information and Assistance

Every AAA provides free information and assistance to help you understand your options and connect with appropriate services. Staff members are trained to answer questions about:

• Available programs and services in your area
• Eligibility requirements for different programs
• How to apply for benefits and services
• Referrals to other agencies and organizations
• Benefits counseling for Medicare, Medicaid, and other programs

You don’t need to qualify for anything to receive information and assistance – this service is available to anyone who calls.

Nutrition Programs

Most AAAs operate comprehensive nutrition programs designed to address food insecurity among older adults while promoting social interaction.

Congregate Meals: Hot, nutritious meals served at senior centers, community centers, churches, and other gathering places. These programs provide more than just food – they offer opportunities to socialize, participate in activities, and receive information about other services. Meals typically cost $3-5 for seniors 60+, though no one is turned away for inability to pay.

Home-Delivered Meals (Meals on Wheels): For seniors who have difficulty shopping for groceries or preparing meals, many AAAs coordinate home-delivered meal programs. Volunteers deliver hot or frozen meals directly to your home, usually 1-5 days per week. Priority is given to seniors who are homebound, have no informal support system, or are at nutritional risk.

Farmers Market Nutrition Program: Some AAAs provide vouchers that allow eligible seniors to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at participating farmers markets.

Transportation Services

Transportation is often the biggest barrier preventing seniors from accessing healthcare, shopping, and social activities. AAAs address this need through various programs:

Medical Transportation: Priority service for getting to medical appointments, dialysis, physical therapy, and other health-related trips. Some programs operate their own vehicles with trained drivers, while others provide vouchers for taxi services or coordinate volunteer driver programs.

General Transportation: Scheduled transportation for shopping, banking, visiting family, and other essential trips. Service availability varies significantly by location, with urban areas typically offering more frequent service than rural areas.

Transportation Vouchers: Some AAAs provide vouchers that can be used with local taxi companies or ride-sharing services for eligible seniors.

Reality Check: Transportation services often have waiting lists, especially in rural areas. You may need to book rides 3-7 days in advance, and same-day transportation is rarely available except for emergencies.

Legal Assistance

AAAs provide free legal help for seniors 60+ in civil (non-criminal) matters that affect their health, safety, and economic well-being. Common legal issues include:

• Medicare and Medicaid problems
• Social Security benefit issues
• Housing problems (landlord-tenant disputes, home repairs)
• Consumer protection (scams, fraud, identity theft)
• Estate planning basics (wills, advance directives)
• Family law matters affecting seniors
• Public benefit applications and appeals

Legal assistance is provided by staff attorneys or volunteer lawyers. Services may include advice, brief consultations, document preparation, and representation in some cases.

Medicare and Insurance Counseling

Trained counselors help seniors understand Medicare options, compare health insurance plans, and resolve billing problems. Services include:

• Medicare enrollment assistance
• Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan comparisons
• Medicare Part D prescription drug plan selection
• Medicare Advantage plan reviews
• Appeal assistance for denied claims
• Help understanding Medicare statements and bills

This counseling is completely unbiased – counselors don’t sell insurance and have no financial interest in your decisions.

Case Management and Care Coordination

For seniors with complex needs, AAAs provide case management services to help coordinate multiple services and benefits. Case managers work with you to:

• Assess your needs and develop a care plan
• Connect you with appropriate services
• Monitor your situation over time
• Advocate on your behalf with service providers
• Help you navigate the healthcare system
• Coordinate with family members and informal caregivers

Family Caregiver Support

AAAs operate Family Caregiver Support Programs that provide assistance to family members caring for older adults. Services include:

Information and Education: Training on caregiving techniques, managing stress, understanding chronic conditions, and knowing when to seek help.

Counseling and Support Groups: Individual counseling and peer support groups to help caregivers cope with the emotional and practical challenges of caregiving.

Respite Care: Temporary care services that give family caregivers a break. This might include in-home companions, adult day programs, or short-term residential care.

Supplemental Services: Limited funding for services not covered by other programs, such as home modifications, assistive devices, or emergency response systems.

Medicaid Waiver Programs Through AAAs

Alabama offers several Medicaid waiver programs that help eligible seniors and people with disabilities receive care in their homes instead of nursing facilities. AAAs often serve as entry points for these programs.

Elderly and Disabled (E&D) Waiver

The E&D Waiver is Alabama’s largest home and community-based services program. It provides comprehensive services for people who would otherwise need nursing home care.

Services Include:

• Personal care assistance with bathing, dressing, medication management
• Homemaker services (light housekeeping, meal preparation, laundry)
• Home-delivered meals
• Adult day health programs
• Respite care for family caregivers
• Companion services
• Transportation to medical appointments
• Home modifications and assistive devices
• Personal emergency response systems

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be Alabama Medicaid eligible
• Must need a level of care typically provided in a nursing facility
• Must choose to receive services at home instead of in a nursing facility
• Financial limits: $2,000 in countable assets, income under $2,982/month (2026)

Reality Check: The E&D Waiver has a waiting list in most parts of Alabama. Once you apply, it may take 6-18 months or longer to receive services. However, you can apply anytime and your application will be processed in order received.

Personal Choices Program

This program allows E&D Waiver participants to self-direct their care by hiring, training, and managing their own caregivers – including family members in some cases.

How It Works:

• You receive a monthly budget for personal care services
• You can hire anyone you choose as your caregiver (with some restrictions)
• A financial management agency handles payroll and taxes
• You have more flexibility in when and how services are provided

SAIL Waiver

The SAIL (Supported and Independent Living) Waiver serves adults with physical disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, and certain neurological conditions.

Special Population Services

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Alabama AAAs are working to ensure LGBTQ+ seniors feel welcome and safe when accessing services. While services aren’t specifically designated as LGBTQ+-focused, all AAAs are required to provide non-discriminatory services.

What to Expect:

• All AAA staff receive training on serving diverse populations
• You cannot be denied services based on sexual orientation or gender identity
• If you experience discrimination, contact the AAA director or the Alabama Department of Senior Services
• Some AAAs partner with LGBTQ+ organizations to provide culturally competent services

Resources:

• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: 1-877-360-LGBT (5428)
• Local PFLAG chapters may offer senior-specific programming
• Birmingham AIDS Outreach provides services for LGBTQ+ seniors in Jefferson County

Veteran Seniors

Alabama has approximately 400,000 veterans, many of whom are seniors. AAAs coordinate with the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs and VA Medical Centers to ensure veterans receive all benefits they’ve earned.

Veteran-Specific Services:

• Help applying for VA benefits and healthcare
• Transportation to VA medical appointments
• Assistance with VA pension applications
• Connection to VA home and community-based services
• Veteran-Directed Care programs in some areas
• Honor guard and burial assistance coordination

Key Resources:

• Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs: 334-242-5077
• Veteran Service Officers located in 61 counties
• VA Medical Centers in Birmingham, Montgomery, Tuscaloosa, and Huntsville
• Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)

Disabled Seniors

All AAAs serve people with disabilities regardless of age, not just seniors. Services are designed to promote independence and community integration.

Disability-Specific Services:

• Assistive technology assessments and training
• Home modifications for accessibility
• Transportation with wheelchair accessibility
• Independent living skills training
• Benefits counseling for disability programs
• Advocacy for disability rights and services

Important Note: If you become disabled after age 60, you may be eligible for services through both the aging and disability service systems. AAA staff can help you understand your options.

Tribal-Specific Resources

Alabama is home to one federally recognized tribe and several state-recognized tribes. While Alabama doesn’t have specific tribal AAA services, resources are available:

Poarch Band of Creek Indians:

• Operates their own senior nutrition program
• Provides transportation services for tribal members
• Offers cultural programming for elders
• Contact: 251-368-9136

Other Tribal Resources:

• National Indian Council on Aging: 505-292-2001
• Native Elder Service Locator: eldercare.acl.gov
• Local AAAs serve tribal members and can help access culturally appropriate services

Rural Seniors and Families

Rural seniors face unique challenges including geographic isolation, limited transportation, and fewer service providers. Alabama’s AAAs adapt their services to meet rural needs:

Rural-Specific Adaptations:

• Mobile service delivery (bringing services to you)
• Volunteer driver programs for long-distance medical trips
• Telecommunication services (phone check-ins, virtual support groups)
• Partnerships with faith-based organizations
• Flexible service delivery schedules
• Bulk purchasing programs for prescription medications

Challenges to Expect:

• Longer wait times for services
• Less frequent transportation options
• Fewer dining sites for congregate meals
• Limited internet access for online services
• Provider shortages for in-home services

How to Access Services

Step 1: Call the Statewide Number

Dial 1-800-AGELINE (1-800-243-5463) from anywhere in Alabama. This toll-free number connects you to your local AAA based on your county of residence. The line operates 24/7, though live staff are typically available Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM.

Step 2: Initial Screening

AAA staff will ask basic questions about:

• Your age and county of residence
• What type of help you’re seeking
• Your current living situation
• Whether you have urgent needs
• Basic financial information (for some programs)

This initial conversation typically takes 10-15 minutes and helps staff understand how to best assist you.

Step 3: Assessment (If Needed)

For ongoing services like case management or waiver programs, you may need a more detailed assessment. This could happen:

• Over the phone for simple services
• In person at the AAA office
• In your home for complex situations

Assessments evaluate your:

• Physical and cognitive abilities
• Safety concerns
• Social support system
• Financial resources
• Service preferences

Step 4: Service Planning

Based on your assessment, AAA staff will:

• Explain available services and programs
• Help you apply for relevant benefits
• Develop a service plan if needed
• Make referrals to other agencies
• Schedule ongoing services

Step 5: Follow-Up

AAAs provide ongoing support through:

• Regular check-ins with case managers
• Annual reassessments for waiver programs
• Help accessing new services as needs change
• Advocacy when problems arise

Costs and Financial Assistance

Free Services

These services are available at no cost to eligible participants:

• Information and assistance
• Benefits counseling (Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security)
• Legal consultations
• Case management
• Family caregiver support and education

Low-Cost Services

These services typically have suggested donations but you cannot be denied for inability to pay:

• Congregate meals ($3-5 suggested donation)
• Transportation ($2-5 suggested donation per trip)
• Home-delivered meals ($3-6 suggested donation per meal)

Income-Based Services

Some services use sliding fee scales based on your income:

• In-home care services
• Adult day programs
• Respite care
• Home modifications

Insurance and Medicaid Coverage

Many services can be covered by:

• Medicaid (including waiver programs)
• Medicare (for medically necessary services)
• Private insurance
• Veterans benefits
• Other state and federal programs

Financial Reality: Even free services have limited funding. This means:

• You may be placed on waiting lists
• Services may be reduced during budget cuts
• You might receive less service than you’d prefer
• Donations help programs serve more people

Quality and Accountability

Program Standards

All AAAs must meet federal and state standards for:

• Staff qualifications and training
• Service quality and safety
• Financial management
• Non-discrimination policies
• Confidentiality protections

Oversight and Monitoring

AAAs are monitored by:

• The Alabama Department of Senior Services
• Federal Administration for Community Living
• Independent auditors
• Consumer advisory councils
• Local governing boards

Complaint Process

If you have concerns about services:

1. Talk to your service provider first – Many issues can be resolved quickly at this level
2. Contact the AAA director – Each AAA has a process for handling complaints
3. Call the Alabama Department of Senior Services – 334-242-5743 for state-level review
4. Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman – 1-800-AGELINE for nursing home and assisted living complaints

Your Rights

As a service recipient, you have the right to:

• Be treated with dignity and respect
• Receive services without discrimination
• Have your personal information kept confidential
• Participate in decisions about your care
• File complaints without retaliation
• Receive services that meet professional standards

Resources by Region

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I have to be poor to get services?

No. Information and assistance services are available to anyone regardless of income. For ongoing services like case management and meals, there may be suggested donations, but you cannot be denied services for inability to pay. Some services like Medicaid waiver programs do have income limits.

Can I get services if I’m under 60?

Yes, if you have a disability. All AAAs serve people with disabilities of any age. The age 60+ requirement only applies to services specifically funded under the Older Americans Act.

What if I don’t qualify for Medicaid?

You can still access many AAA services even if you don’t qualify for Medicaid. AAAs receive funding from multiple sources and provide services based on need, not just Medicaid eligibility. However, the most comprehensive in-home services (like personal care) typically require Medicaid coverage.

How long do I have to wait for services?

This varies greatly depending on the service and your location. Information and assistance are usually available immediately. Meals and transportation may start within 1-2 weeks. Medicaid waiver programs often have waiting lists of 6-18 months or longer.

Can family members receive services?

AAAs provide support services for family caregivers, including education, counseling, and respite care. In some cases, family members can be hired as paid caregivers through the Personal Choices Program.

What if I live in an assisted living facility?

You can still access some AAA services while living in assisted living, including information and assistance, benefits counseling, and legal help. However, many direct care services aren’t available since the facility is expected to provide those.

Do services continue if I move to another county?

Services don’t automatically transfer if you move. You’ll need to contact the AAA in your new county to reestablish services. However, your assessment information can usually be shared to speed up the process.

What languages are services available in?

All AAAs are required to provide interpretation services for non-English speakers. Spanish interpretation is most commonly available, but other languages can be arranged. There is no charge for interpretation services.

Can I choose my service providers?

For some services, yes. Through the Personal Choices Program, you can hire your own caregivers. For other services, you may be able to express preferences, but the AAA typically contracts with specific providers in your area.

What happens in emergencies?

AAAs maintain emergency protocols and work with local emergency management agencies. During natural disasters or other emergencies, they may provide additional services like emergency shelters, meal delivery, and evacuation assistance for vulnerable seniors.

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Disclaimer

Program details, contact information, and services can change without advance notice. While this guide uses the most current available information as of January 2026, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with the relevant Area Agency on Aging before making decisions or applying for services.

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional legal, medical, or financial advice. Always consult with qualified professionals for advice specific to your situation.

For the most current information, contact:

• Alabama AGE-LINE: 1-800-243-5463
• Alabama Department of Senior Services: 334-242-5743
• Your local Area Agency on Aging

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About This Guide

Researched and Compiled by Grants for Seniors

This guide has been carefully researched using publicly available government resources and official program websites. We systematically review federal and state program information to create comprehensive, accurate guides for older Americans seeking grant opportunities.

Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (HHS, USDA, SSA, CMS), state government departments, official program documentation, and verified nonprofit organization resources.

Verification Process: Each program listing undergoes thorough online verification by cross-referencing information across multiple official sources, checking current program status, verifying contact information, and confirming eligibility requirements and deadlines.

Information Currency:

Last Updated: January 2026

Sources Verified: January 2026

Next Review: May 2026

Important Note: Government programs can change without advance notice. While this guide uses the most current available information, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with program administrators before applying.

Found an Error? If you discover outdated information or additional programs that should be included, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Always confirm program details with official sources before applying.

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This resource is independently researched to help seniors access available financial assistance programs.