Area Agencies on Aging in Hawaii

Complete Guide to Area Agencies on Aging in Hawaii (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

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:

• Statewide ADRC (Aging & Disability Resource Center): (808) 643-2372 – Primary statewide number
• Adult Protective Services: (808) 832-5115 – 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 meal programs
• 2-1-1 Hawaii – Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency resources

Key Takeaways

• Hawaii has 4 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serving all four counties across the islands
• All services are free or low-cost for seniors 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• Each county has its own AAA phone number – no single statewide hotline number like some states
• All AAAs operate as Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) – your one-stop information hub
• No income requirements for basic information and assistance services
• All AAAs provide culturally sensitive services respecting Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander traditions
• Hawaii uses QUEST Integration instead of traditional Medicaid waivers for comprehensive long-term care

What Are Area Agencies on Aging?

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

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

In Hawaii, all 4 AAAs also operate as Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs). This means you can call any AAA for help with aging, disability, or caregiving questions, regardless of your age or income level. The concept reflects the Hawaiian value of “no wrong door” – wherever you enter the system, you’ll find the help you need.

The Hawaii State Executive Office on Aging oversees all AAAs and provides funding through federal, state, and county sources. Each AAA develops a four-year area plan that identifies local needs and outlines culturally appropriate solutions that honor Hawaii’s diverse communities.

Hawaii’s 4 Area Agencies on Aging: Complete Directory

Note: Director names may change. Always verify current details by calling your county’s AAA directly.

Statewide Resources:

• Executive Office on Aging: (808) 586-0100
• Statewide ADRC: (808) 643-2372

Core Services Provided by Hawaii AAAs

Information and Assistance

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

• Available programs and services on your island
• Eligibility requirements for different programs
• How to apply for benefits and services
• Referrals to culturally appropriate agencies and organizations
• Benefits counseling for Medicare, Medicaid (QUEST), and other programs

This service is available to anyone who calls – no qualifications needed. Many staff members understand the unique cultural needs of Hawaii’s diverse communities, including Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, Filipino, Japanese, and other ethnic populations.

Nutrition Programs

Hawaii’s AAAs operate comprehensive nutrition programs that address food security while promoting social connection and cultural traditions.

Congregate Meals: Nutritious meals served at senior centers, community centers, churches, and other gathering places throughout the islands. These programs provide more than just food – they offer opportunities to socialize, participate in activities, and receive information about other services. Meals often incorporate local ingredients and cultural preferences. Suggested donations are typically $3-6 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, AAAs coordinate home-delivered meal programs. Volunteers and staff 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. Some programs offer culturally appropriate meals including local Hawaii favorites.

Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program: Available through some AAAs, providing vouchers that allow eligible seniors to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at participating farmers markets throughout the islands.

Transportation Services

Transportation is often the biggest barrier preventing seniors from accessing healthcare, shopping, and social activities across Hawaii’s islands. 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. Inter-island medical transportation assistance may also be available.

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

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 on neighbor islands. You may need to book rides 3-7 days in advance, and same-day transportation is rarely available except for emergencies. Inter-island travel assistance is very limited.

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 QUEST (Hawaii 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
• Native Hawaiian trust and land issues (when applicable)

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 (Hawaii SHIP)

The Hawaii State Health Insurance Assistance Program (Hawaii SHIP) provides trained counselors who 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. Hawaii SHIP can be reached at (808) 586-7299 on Oahu and toll-free at 1-888-875-9229 from neighbor islands.

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 culturally appropriate care plan
• Connect you with appropriate services on your island
• 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
• Connect you with Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander cultural resources when appropriate

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. Programs may incorporate cultural practices and values relevant to Hawaii’s diverse communities.

Counseling and Support Groups: Individual counseling and peer support groups to help caregivers cope with the emotional and practical challenges of caregiving. Some groups may be offered in languages other than English or incorporate cultural healing practices.

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.

QUEST Integration: Hawaii’s Approach to Long-Term Care

Unlike most states that use traditional Medicaid waivers, Hawaii operates under QUEST Integration – a unique managed care program that combines medical care with long-term services and supports.

QUEST Integration Program

QUEST stands for Quality care, Universal access, Efficient utilization, Stabilizing costs, and Transforming the way health care is provided. This program 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
• Community Care Foster Family Homes
• Assisted living facility services (room and board not covered)

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be Hawaii QUEST (Medicaid) eligible
• Must need a level of care typically provided in a nursing facility
• Must choose to receive services at home or in community instead of nursing facility
• Financial limits: $2,000 in countable assets, income under $1,500/month (2025)

Reality Check: QUEST Integration has limited slots and waiting periods may apply. The application process can take several months, and services may not start immediately upon approval.

Self-Directed Services

QUEST Integration allows participants to self-direct their personal care services, meaning you can hire, train, and manage your 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

Special Population Services

Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Seniors

Hawaii’s AAAs recognize and honor the unique cultural needs of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities. Services are designed to respect traditional values while providing modern support.

Culturally Sensitive Services:

• AAA staff receive training on Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander cultural values
• Programs may incorporate traditional healing practices and cultural approaches
• Respect for kupuna (elders) and ohana (family) values in service delivery
• Connection to Native Hawaiian health systems when appropriate
• Understanding of traditional family structures and decision-making processes

Cultural Resources:

• Papa Ola Lokahi (Native Hawaiian Healthcare System)
• Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA)
• Ke Ola Mamo (Oahu Native Hawaiian Healthcare)
• Na Pu’uwai (Molokai/Lanai Native Hawaiian Healthcare)
• Queen Liliuokalani Trust services
• Hawaiian Civic Club programs

Filipino and Asian Seniors

Hawaii has large Filipino, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and other Asian communities. AAAs provide culturally appropriate services that understand:

• Traditional family structures and roles
• Language preferences and interpretation needs
• Cultural approaches to healthcare and aging
• Religious and spiritual practices
• Traditional foods and dietary preferences
• Community support systems

Compact of Free Association (COFA) Residents

COFA migrants from Micronesia, Marshall Islands, and Palau may access some AAA services. Special considerations include:

• Language interpretation services
• Understanding of island cultures and traditions
• Assistance navigating complex eligibility requirements
• Connection to appropriate health and social services
• Advocacy for culturally competent care

Rural and Neighbor Island Seniors

Seniors living on neighbor islands or in rural areas face unique challenges including geographic isolation, limited transportation, and fewer service providers. AAAs adapt their services through:

Island-Specific Adaptations:

• Inter-island coordination for specialized services
• Mobile service delivery to remote areas
• Video conferencing for consultations
• Partnerships with local churches and community organizations
• Volunteer networks in rural communities
• Flexible service delivery schedules

Challenges to Expect:

• Longer wait times for specialized services
• Limited transportation options between districts
• Fewer dining sites for congregate meals
• Provider shortages for in-home services
• Higher costs due to geographic isolation

How to Access Services

Step 1: Call Your County’s AAA

Choose your county’s number:

• Honolulu County (Oahu): (808) 768-7700
• Hawaii County (Big Island): (808) 961-8626 (Hilo) or (808) 323-4392 (Kona)
• Maui County (Maui, Molokai, Lanai): (808) 270-7774
• Kauai County (Kauai, Niihau): (808) 241-4470

Live staff are typically available Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 4:30 PM Hawaii time.

Step 2: Initial Screening

AAA staff will ask basic questions about:

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

This initial conversation typically takes 10-20 minutes and helps staff understand how to best assist you.

Step 3: Assessment (If Needed)

For ongoing services like case management or QUEST Integration, 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
• Cultural preferences and family support system
• Financial resources
• Service preferences

Step 4: Service Planning

Based on your assessment, AAA staff will:

• Explain available services and programs on your island
• Help you apply for relevant benefits including QUEST
• Develop a culturally appropriate 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 QUEST 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, QUEST, 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 ($3-6 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 QUEST Coverage

Many services can be covered by:

• QUEST (Hawaii Medicaid including QUEST Integration)
• 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 cultural competency training
• Service quality and safety
• Financial management
• Non-discrimination policies
• Confidentiality protections

Oversight and Monitoring

AAAs are monitored by:

• The Hawaii State Executive Office on Aging
• Federal Administration for Community Living
• Independent auditors
• Consumer advisory councils
• Local county governments

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 Hawaii Executive Office on Aging – (808) 586-0100 for state-level review
4. Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman – (808) 586-0100 for nursing home and assisted living complaints

Your Rights

As a service recipient, you have the right to:

• Be treated with dignity and respect, honoring your cultural background
• 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 and cultural standards

Resources by Island

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What if I live on a neighbor island and need services not available locally?

AAAs work together to coordinate services across islands when possible. For specialized services, you may need to travel to Oahu, and some AAAs can help arrange inter-island transportation assistance. However, most basic services are available on each major island. Video conferencing is increasingly used for consultations and some support services.

Can I get help in a language other than English?

Yes, all AAAs are required to provide interpretation services at no charge. Hawaiian, Filipino (Tagalog, Ilocano), Japanese, Korean, and Chuukese interpretation are most commonly available. For other languages, advance notice may be needed to arrange an interpreter.

How do Hawaii’s services differ from the mainland?

Hawaii uses QUEST Integration instead of traditional Medicaid waivers, which can provide more comprehensive coordinated care. Services are also designed to be culturally sensitive to Hawaii’s unique multi-ethnic population and island lifestyle. However, services may be more limited due to geographic isolation and smaller provider networks.

What services are available for COFA migrants from the Pacific Islands?

COFA migrants can access most AAA information and assistance services. For QUEST (Medicaid) services, eligibility rules may be different and more limited than for U.S. citizens. AAAs can help determine eligibility and connect you with appropriate services, including specialized programs for Pacific Islander communities.

If I spend part of the year in Hawaii and part on the mainland, can I still get services?

You can access information and assistance services whenever you’re in Hawaii. For ongoing services like meals or case management, you typically need to be a Hawaii resident. Each AAA has different policies about temporary residents, so call your county’s AAA to discuss your specific situation.

How do I access Native Hawaiian cultural services along with aging services?

Many AAAs have partnerships with Native Hawaiian health systems and cultural organizations. Staff can connect you with Papa Ola Lokahi, Native Hawaiian Health Care Systems, Office of Hawaiian Affairs programs, and other culturally appropriate services. Some programs integrate traditional Hawaiian healing practices with modern aging services.

What happens if there’s a natural disaster like a hurricane or tsunami?

AAAs work closely with county emergency management agencies and have special protocols for natural disasters. They maintain lists of vulnerable seniors who may need evacuation assistance and coordinate emergency shelters with appropriate medical support. Many programs have emergency food and medication protocols for extended power outages.

Are there services specifically for military retirees and veterans?

While AAAs serve all seniors regardless of military status, they coordinate closely with VA programs and understand the unique needs of Hawaii’s large military retiree population. Services include help accessing VA benefits, transportation to VA medical facilities, and support for military families dealing with aging issues.

How do costs compare to the mainland for senior services?

Due to Hawaii’s isolation and higher cost of living, some services may cost more than mainland programs. However, AAA services maintain the same free and low-cost structure as mainland programs. Private-pay services like assisted living and home care typically cost more than most mainland locations.

Can I get help managing family land or property issues as I age?

AAAs can provide referrals to legal assistance programs that understand Hawaii’s unique property laws, including Native Hawaiian trust lands, family land ownership, and agricultural property issues. They can also connect you with culturally appropriate decision-making support that respects traditional family structures.

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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 August 2025, 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:

• Your County’s Area Agency on Aging (see directory above)
• Hawaii Executive Office on Aging: (808) 586-0100
• Statewide ADRC: (808) 643-2372

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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 assistance opportunities.

Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (HHS, USDA, SSA, CMS), Hawaii state government departments, county agency websites, 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 service availability.

Information Currency: • Last Updated: August 2025 • Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 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 assistance programs.