Area Agencies on Aging in Maryland

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

Last updated: January 21, 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:

• Maryland Access Point (MAP): 1-844-627-5465 – Statewide information and assistance hotline
• Maryland Adult Protective Services: 1-800-332-6347 – Report elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 – Free, confidential crisis support
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 – Mental health crisis assistance

For immediate assistance:

• Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for emergency support programs
• 211 Maryland – Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency resources and crisis support

Key Takeaways

• Maryland has 19 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serving all 23 counties and Baltimore City
• All services are free or low-cost for adults 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• Call 1-844-627-5465 to connect with Maryland Access Point – your statewide entry point
• Each AAA operates as an Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) – your comprehensive resource hub
• No income requirements for information and assistance services
• Every AAA provides home-delivered meals, transportation assistance, Medicare counseling, and caregiver support
• Maryland Medicaid waiver programs help you receive care at home instead of in nursing facilities

What Are Area Agencies on Aging?

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are regional organizations that coordinate and deliver essential services for older adults and people with disabilities. Established under the federal Older Americans Act of 1965, these agencies form the backbone of Maryland’s aging services network.

Your local AAA functions as a comprehensive resource center for senior services. They don’t only provide direct services – they also plan, coordinate, and fund programs throughout their service area. Each of Maryland’s 19 AAAs serves specific counties or regions and collaborates with local nonprofits, government agencies, and community organizations to deliver services where you need them.

In Maryland, all 19 AAAs also function as Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) through the Maryland Access Point (MAP) system. This means you can contact any AAA for help with aging, disability, or caregiving questions, regardless of your age or income level. MAP serves as the single point of entry for accessing long-term services and supports.

The Maryland Department of Aging oversees all AAAs in the state and provides funding through federal, state, and local sources. Each AAA develops comprehensive area plans that identify local needs and outline strategies to address them effectively.

Maryland’s 19 Area Agencies on Aging: Complete Directory

Note: Director names and contact information may change. Always verify current details by calling 1-844-627-5465.

Core Services Provided by Maryland AAAs

Information and Assistance

Every AAA provides free information and assistance to help you understand your options and connect with appropriate resources. Trained staff members are available 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, Medical Assistance, and other programs

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

Nutrition Programs

Maryland AAAs operate comprehensive nutrition programs designed to combat food insecurity among older adults while promoting social connections and wellness.

Congregate Dining: Nutritious meals served at senior centers, community centers, churches, and other gathering locations. These programs provide more than just food – they offer opportunities to socialize, participate in activities, and receive information about other services. Meals typically have a suggested donation of $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, Maryland 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 limited informal support, or are at nutritional risk.

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

Transportation Services

Transportation is often the biggest barrier preventing seniors from accessing healthcare, shopping, and social activities. AAAs address this challenge 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 activities. Service availability varies significantly by location, with urban areas typically offering more frequent service than rural communities.

CountyRide and Similar Programs: Many AAAs operate or coordinate with county transportation programs that provide door-to-door service for seniors and people with disabilities.

Reality Check: Transportation services often have waiting lists, especially in rural Maryland. 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 security. Common legal issues include:

• Medicare and Medical Assistance 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 (SHIP)

Trained counselors help seniors understand Medicare options, compare health insurance plans, and resolve billing problems through Maryland’s State Health Insurance Program (SHIP). 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.

Maryland Medicaid Waiver Programs Through AAAs

Maryland 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.

Community Options Waiver

The Community Options Waiver (often referred to as the “Waiver for Older Adults”) is Maryland’s primary 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, and 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
• Assisted living services (participant pays room and board)
• Newer additions: Senior Center Plus and Behavioral Consultation services

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be Medical Assistance 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 (2026):
  • Assets: $2,000–$2,500 in countable assets (varies by category)
  • Income: $2,982 per month (This is the 2026 standard for 300% of SSI/Federal Benefit Rate)

Reality Check:The Community Options Waiver continues to have a significant waiting list. As of early 2026 , there are over 22,000 people on the registry. Priority is strictly given to people currently living in nursing homes who wish to return to the community.

Community First Choice

This state plan option provides basic home and community-based services without a waiting list for eligible individuals.

Services Include:

• Personal care assistance
• Homemaker services
• Personal emergency response systems
• Home modifications for accessibility
• Home-delivered meals
• Transportation services

How It Works:

• No waiting list – services available when eligible
• Lower income limits than Community Options Waiver
• Can be a stepping stone to other programs
• Available to anyone meeting nursing facility level of care

Other Specialized Waivers

Maryland offers several other waiver programs for specific populations:

• Medical Day Care Services Waiver – Community-based day care
• Model Waiver – For medically fragile individuals
• Brain Injury Waiver – For adults with traumatic brain injuries
• Autism Waiver – For children with autism spectrum disorders
• Community Pathways Waiver – For individuals with developmental disabilities

Special Population Services

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Maryland 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 Maryland Department of Aging
• Some AAAs partner with LGBTQ+ organizations to provide culturally competent services

Resources:

• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: 1-877-360-LGBT (5428)
• Local Pride organizations may offer senior-specific programming
• Baltimore and surrounding areas have LGBTQ+-friendly senior housing options

Veteran Seniors

Maryland has approximately 400,000 veterans, many of whom are seniors. AAAs coordinate with the Maryland 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
• Honor guard and burial assistance coordination

Key Resources:

• Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs: 410-260-3838
• Veteran Service Officers located throughout the state
• VA Medical Centers in Baltimore, Perry Point, and clinics throughout Maryland
• 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.

Immigrant and Refugee Seniors

Maryland has diverse immigrant and refugee populations. AAAs work to provide culturally competent services and language assistance.

Cultural Adaptations:

• Interpretation services in multiple languages
• Culturally appropriate meal options when possible
• Partnerships with ethnic community organizations
• Staff training on cultural competency
• Assistance navigating complex benefit systems

Language Services:

• Spanish interpretation is widely available
• Other languages can be arranged as needed
• Written materials available in multiple languages
• No charge for interpretation services

Rural Seniors and Families

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

Rural-Specific Adaptations:

• Mobile service delivery programs
• 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
• Coordination with agricultural communities

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 Maryland Access Point

Dial 1-844-627-5465 from anywhere in Maryland. This toll-free number connects you to the Maryland Access Point (MAP), which will direct you to your local AAA based on your county of residence. 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, Medical Assistance, 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 Medical Assistance Coverage

Many services can be covered by:

• Medical Assistance (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 Maryland Department of Aging
• 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 Maryland Department of Aging – 410-767-1100 for state-level review
4. Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman – 410-767-1074 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)

How does Maryland’s MAP system differ from calling individual AAAs?

Maryland Access Point (MAP) serves as a central intake system that connects you to your local AAA and provides standardized screening. When you call 1-844-627-5465, trained specialists assess your needs and either provide immediate assistance or connect you to the appropriate local AAA. This system ensures you get consistent information and aren’t bounced between agencies trying to find help.

What’s the difference between Community First Choice and the Community Options Waiver?

Community First Choice has no waiting list but offers more limited services and has stricter income requirements (around $350/month for individuals). The Community Options Waiver offers more comprehensive services but has a significant waiting list and allows higher income levels (up to 300% of SSI). Many people start with Community First Choice and transition to the Community Options Waiver when slots become available.

Are services available in languages other than English?

Yes, all Maryland AAAs are required to provide interpretation services at no cost to you. Spanish interpretation is most readily available given Maryland’s large Latino population. Other languages including Korean, Chinese, Amharic, and others can be arranged. Some AAAs in diverse areas like Montgomery and Prince George’s counties have multilingual staff and materials.

Can I get services if I live in Maryland part-time (seasonal residence)?

Maryland residency requirements vary by program. Basic information and assistance services are available to anyone, but ongoing services like Medicaid waivers require Maryland residency. If you’re a seasonal resident, contact your local AAA to discuss which services you can access. Some emergency services and health insurance counseling may be available regardless of residency status.

How do I appeal if I’m denied services or disagree with an assessment?

Each AAA has an internal appeals process for service denials or disputes. You can request a supervisor review or formal hearing. For Medicaid waiver programs, you have appeal rights through the Maryland Department of Health. The Maryland Department of Aging can also review complaints about AAA services. Always ask for written notification of any denial and the specific reason.

What happens if my local AAA doesn’t have the services I need?

AAAs coordinate with each other and with statewide programs to help you access needed services. If your local AAA can’t provide something, they should refer you to other agencies or programs that can help. Maryland’s MAP system is designed to connect you with resources throughout the state, not just in your immediate area.

Are there income limits for family members to receive caregiver support services?

Family caregiver support services generally don’t have income limits – they’re based on the caregiver’s need for support regardless of income. This includes education, counseling, support groups, and limited respite care. However, some supplemental services or cash assistance programs may have income requirements. The person being cared for doesn’t need to be low-income for family members to receive support.

How do Maryland AAAs coordinate with federal facilities like Walter Reed or the NIH?

Maryland AAAs maintain relationships with major federal facilities and can help coordinate services for patients and families. For instance, if you’re receiving treatment at NIH or Walter Reed, your local AAA can help with transportation, temporary housing assistance, meal delivery, and other support services. They often work with social workers at these facilities to provide comprehensive support.

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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:

• Maryland Access Point: 1-844-627-5465
• Maryland Department of Aging: 410-767-1100
• 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.