Area Agencies on Aging in Massachusetts

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

Last updated: January 15, 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:

• MassOptions: 1-800-243-4636 – Statewide information and assistance hotline
• Massachusetts Elder Abuse Hotline: 1-800-922-2275 – 24/7 hotline to 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 Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) for emergency support programs
• 211 Massachusetts – Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency resources and crisis support

Key Takeaways

• Massachusetts has 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serving all 351 cities and towns
• All services are free or low-cost for adults 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• Call 1-800-243-4636 to connect with MassOptions – your statewide entry point to aging services
• Each ASAP/AAA operates as part of the state’s “No Wrong Door” system – contact any agency and they’ll help you find the right services
• No income requirements for information and assistance services
• Every ASAP/AAA provides home-delivered meals, transportation assistance, Medicare counseling, and protective services
• MassHealth waiver programs help you receive care at home instead of in nursing facilities

What Are Area Agencies on Aging and ASAPs?

Massachusetts has a unique dual system of Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs). Both types of agencies coordinate and deliver essential services for older adults and people with disabilities. Many agencies serve as both an AAA and an ASAP. This system was established under the federal Older Americans Act of 1965 and forms the foundation of Massachusetts’s aging services network.

Your local ASAP/AAA functions as a comprehensive resource center for aging services. They don’t only provide direct services – they also plan, coordinate, and fund programs throughout their service area. Each of Massachusetts’s 27 ASAP/AAA agencies serves specific cities and towns and collaborates with local nonprofits, government agencies, and community organizations to deliver services where you need them.

Massachusetts operates under a “No Wrong Door” policy, meaning you can contact any ASAP/AAA in the state regardless of where you live, and they will help connect you to the appropriate agency for your area and needs. This ensures no one gets lost in the system while seeking help.

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence oversees all ASAPs and AAAs in the state and provides funding through federal, state, and local sources. Each agency develops comprehensive area plans that identify local needs and outline strategies to address them effectively.

Massachusetts’s 27 ASAPs/AAAs: Complete Directory

Due to the comprehensive nature of Massachusetts’s system with 27 agencies, here are the major regional providers:

Greater Boston/Metro Area:

• Springwell | Serving Arlington, Belmont, Brookline, Cambridge, Newton, Somerville, Waltham, Watertown, Wellesley, Weston | 617-926-4100
• Minuteman Senior Services | Serving Acton, Bedford, Bolton, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Harvard, Hudson, Lexington, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Stow, Sudbury | 978-318-1000
• WestMass ElderCare | Serving Chicopee, Holyoke, South Hadley, West Springfield, Westfield | 413-538-9020

Central Massachusetts:

• Senior Connection | Serving Auburn, Barre, Boylston, Grafton, Hardwick, Holden, Leicester, Millbury, New Braintree, Northborough, Oakham, Paxton, Rutland, Shrewsbury, West Boylston, Worcester | 508-852-5539
• Elder Services of Worcester Area | Serving multiple Worcester County communities | 508-756-1545
• Aging Services of North Central Massachusetts | Serving Fitchburg, Gardner, Leominster and surrounding communities | 978-345-1978

Western Massachusetts:

• Highland Valley Elder Services | Serving Berkshire County communities | 413-499-0524
• LifePath | Serving Franklin County communities | 413-773-5555

Eastern Massachusetts:

• Old Colony Elder Services | Serving Southeastern Massachusetts including Plymouth County | 508-584-1561
• Greater Lynn Senior Services | Serving Essex County communities | 781-599-0110
• SeniorCare Inc. | Serving Cape Cod and the Islands | 508-394-4630

Other Regional Providers:

• AgeSpan | Serving Greater Lowell area
• South Shore Elder Services | Serving Norfolk and Plymouth County communities
• Bristol Elder Services | Serving Bristol County communities

Note: This is a representative list. For a complete directory of all 27 agencies, call 1-800-243-4636.

Core Services Provided by Massachusetts ASAPs/AAAs

Information and Assistance

Every ASAP/AAA provides free information and assistance to help you understand your options and connect with appropriate resources. Trained Information & Referral (I&R) specialists 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, MassHealth, 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

Massachusetts ASAPs/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, Massachusetts ASAPs/AAAs coordinate extensive home-delivered meal programs. Volunteers deliver hot, cold, 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.

Nutrition Counseling and Education: Many agencies provide nutrition counseling, education programs, and screening services to help seniors maintain healthy eating habits.

Transportation Services

Transportation is often the biggest barrier preventing seniors from accessing healthcare, shopping, and social activities. ASAPs/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.

Volunteer Driver Programs: Many ASAPs/AAAs coordinate extensive volunteer driver programs where trained community volunteers provide transportation using their own vehicles.

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

Legal Assistance

ASAPs/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 MassHealth 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 (SHINE)

Through the Serving the Health Information Needs of Everyone (SHINE) program, 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.

Options Counseling

Massachusetts offers specialized Options Counseling services for people 60+ or 22+ with disabilities. Trained Options Counselors provide short-term (usually 30-day) assistance to help you:

• Explore care options and services
• Understand costs and coverage
• Navigate the healthcare system
• Plan for future care needs
• Connect with appropriate services

Protective Services

19 ASAPs also function as Protective Services Agencies, working to respond to and eliminate elder abuse, neglect, or self-neglect. These services include:

• Investigation of abuse reports
• Safety planning and intervention
• Ongoing case management
• Connection to legal and social services
• Education and prevention programs

Family Caregiver Support

ASAPs/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.

MassHealth Waiver Programs Through ASAPs/AAAs

Massachusetts continues to offer robust MassHealth (Medicaid) waiver programs that help eligible seniors and people with disabilities receive care in their homes rather than in nursing facilities. ASAPs (Aging Services Access Points) and AAAs (Area Agencies on Aging) remain the primary entry points for these services.

Frail Elder Waiver (FEW)

The Frail Elder Waiver (FEW) is Massachusetts’s primary home and community-based services (HCBS) program for older adults. It provides comprehensive support for individuals who require a nursing facility level of care but prefer to live at home.

Services Include:

• Personal Care: Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
• Homemaker Services: Light housekeeping, laundry, and shopping.
• Nutritional Support: Home-delivered meals and grocery shopping/delivery assistance.
• Health & Wellness: Adult day health programs, Alzheimer’s/dementia coaching, and evidence-based education programs.
• Caregiver Support: Respite care (in-home or facility-based) and companion services.
• Home Safety & Tech: Home modifications (ramps, grab bars), Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS) with enhanced cellular options, and assistive technology for telehealth.
• Complex Care: Complex care training and oversight (formerly classified as skilled nursing) and medication management (including pre-packaged delivery).
• Transportation: To medical appointments and community activities.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Age: Must be 60+ (individuals aged 60–64 must have a disability).
• Clinical Need: Must require a Nursing Facility Level of Care (determined by a screening typically conducted by an ASAP nurse).
• Living Situation: Must live in the community (not a nursing home or hospital) and be able to be served safely at home.
• Financial Limits (2026):
  • Income: Approx. $2,982/month (300% of the Federal Benefit Rate for 2026). Note: If income exceeds this, a deductible may be established.
  • Assets: $2,000 in countable assets for an individual.
  • Spousal Protections: If married and only one spouse applies, the non-applicant spouse may keep significantly more assets (up to $162,660 in 2026) to prevent spousal impoverishment.

Reality Check: While the Frail Elder Waiver is a critical resource, enrollment is not automatic. There may be processing times or waitlists depending on capacity. Contact your local ASAP immediately to start the screening process; they can help you apply for FEW and explore interim options if a wait exists.

Moving Forward Plan (MFP) Waivers

These waivers help people transition from nursing facilities back into the community:

Community Living Waiver (MFP-CL): For individuals who can live independently with supports Residential Supports Waiver (MFP-RS): For individuals who need more structured living arrangements

How They Work:

• Must have been in a nursing facility for at least 90 days
• Designed to help people return to community living
• Provide comprehensive support services
• Include transition assistance and ongoing supports

Other Specialized Waivers

Massachusetts offers several other waiver programs for specific populations:

• Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver – For adults with brain injuries
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Waiver – For individuals with traumatic brain injuries
• Developmental Disabilities Waivers – For individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Personal Care Attendant (PCA) Program

This MassHealth benefit provides personal care services in your home, including:

• Assistance with activities of daily living
• Light housekeeping and meal preparation
• Medication reminders
• Companionship services

Special Population Services

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Massachusetts ASAPs/AAAs are working to ensure LGBTQ+ seniors feel welcome and safe when accessing services. The state has been a leader in LGBTQ+ rights and inclusive aging services.

What to Expect:

• All ASAP/AAA staff receive training on serving diverse populations
• You cannot be denied services based on sexual orientation or gender identity
• Many agencies have LGBTQ+-affirmative policies and practices
• Some agencies partner with LGBTQ+ organizations to provide culturally competent services

Resources:

• Fenway Health LGBTQIA+ Aging Project
• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: 1-877-360-LGBT (5428)
• Boston area has several LGBTQ+-friendly senior housing options

Veteran Seniors

Massachusetts has approximately 300,000 veterans, many of whom are seniors. ASAPs/AAAs coordinate with the Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services 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:

• Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services: 617-210-5480
• Veteran Service Officers located throughout the state
• VA Medical Centers in Boston, Bedford, West Roxbury, and Brockton
• Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)

Disabled Seniors

All ASAPs/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. ASAP/AAA staff can help you understand your options.

Immigrant and Refugee Seniors

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

Cultural Adaptations:

• Interpretation services in over 100 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, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Chinese, Russian, and many other languages
• Written materials available in multiple languages
• No charge for interpretation services

Rural Seniors and Families

Rural seniors in western and central Massachusetts face unique challenges including geographic isolation, limited transportation, and harsh weather conditions. ASAPs/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
• Weather-related service disruptions

How to Access Services

Step 1: Call MassOptions

Dial 1-800-243-4636 from anywhere in Massachusetts. This toll-free number connects you to MassOptions, which will direct you to your local ASAP/AAA based on your city or town of residence. Live staff are available Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM, with interpretation services available in over 100 languages.

Step 2: Initial Screening

ASAP/AAA staff will ask basic questions about:

• Your age and city/town 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 ASAP/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, ASAP/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

ASAPs/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, MassHealth, Social Security)
• Legal consultations
• Case management
• Options counseling
• Family caregiver support and education
• Protective services

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 MassHealth Coverage

Many services can be covered by:

• MassHealth (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 ASAPs/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

ASAPs/AAAs are monitored by:

• The Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence
• 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 ASAP/AAA director – Each agency has a process for handling complaints
3. Call the Executive Office of Aging & Independence – 617-727-7750 for state-level review
4. Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman – through your local ASAP/AAA

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 Massachusetts’s “No Wrong Door” policy work in practice?

You can call any ASAP/AAA in Massachusetts, even if it’s not in your area, and they will help connect you to the right agency for your location and needs. Staff are trained to know the entire state system and will either help you directly or transfer you to the appropriate agency. This ensures no one gets bounced around between agencies trying to find help.

What’s the difference between an ASAP and an AAA in Massachusetts?

Many agencies in Massachusetts serve as both ASAPs (Aging Services Access Points) and AAAs (Area Agencies on Aging). ASAPs are primarily state-funded and provide services like home care and protective services, while AAAs receive federal Older Americans Act funding for services like nutrition and transportation. The dual designation allows agencies to offer a more comprehensive range of services.

Are services available in languages other than English?

Yes, Massachusetts ASAPs/AAAs are required to provide interpretation services in over 100 languages at no cost to you. Given Massachusetts’s diverse population, Spanish, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Chinese, Russian, and many other languages are readily available. Some agencies in diverse areas like Boston, Springfield, and Lowell have multilingual staff and materials.

Can I get help if I’m a seasonal resident on Cape Cod or the Islands?

Yes, seasonal residents can access many services while residing in Massachusetts. Emergency services, information and assistance, and health insurance counseling are available regardless of residency status. However, ongoing services like MassHealth waivers require Massachusetts residency. Contact the local ASAP/AAA to discuss which services you can access based on your residency status.

How do I know if I need Options Counseling versus regular Information & Assistance?

Information & Assistance is for basic questions about services and referrals. Options Counseling is a more intensive, short-term service (usually up to 30 days) for people facing complex care decisions or transitions. If you’re trying to decide between staying home with services versus moving to assisted living, or if you’re being discharged from a hospital and need care planning, Options Counseling would be more appropriate.

What happens if I disagree with a protective services investigation or outcome?

Each ASAP that provides protective services has an appeals process for individuals who disagree with investigation findings or service plans. You can request a supervisor review or appeal to the Executive Office of Aging & Independence. You also have the right to refuse services (unless there’s imminent danger), and investigations must respect your autonomy and self-determination.

Are there income limits for getting help from ASAPs/AAAs?

Most basic services (information, assistance, Medicare counseling, legal consultations, protective services) have no income limits. Services with suggested donations like meals and transportation never turn anyone away for inability to pay. Only some programs like MassHealth waivers and subsidized housing have specific income requirements. The best approach is to call and ask – staff can quickly let you know what you’re eligible for.

How do Massachusetts agencies coordinate with major medical centers like Mass General or Brigham and Women’s?

Massachusetts ASAPs/AAAs maintain relationships with major medical centers and can help coordinate services for patients and families. For instance, if you’re receiving treatment at a Boston hospital, your local ASAP/AAA can help with transportation, temporary housing assistance, meal delivery, and other support services. Many agencies have social workers stationed at or coordinate regularly with major medical centers.

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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 Aging Services Access Point or 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:

• MassOptions: 1-800-243-4636
• Executive Office of Aging & Independence: 617-727-7750
• Your local ASAP/AAA

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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.