Area Agencies on Aging in Michigan

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

Last updated: January 10, 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:

• Your local Area Agency on Aging – See directory below for regional contact numbers
• Michigan Adult Protective Services: 1-855-444-3911 – 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 Michigan – Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency resources and crisis support

Key Takeaways

• Michigan has 16 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serving all 83 counties across the state
• All services are free or low-cost for adults 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• Each AAA serves as a planning and service area covering multiple counties in their region
• Every AAA coordinates the MI Choice Medicaid waiver program – your pathway to home-based care
• No income requirements for information and assistance services
• All AAAs provide home-delivered meals, transportation assistance, Medicare counseling, and case management
• Michigan 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 planning, advocacy, and administrative agencies designated by the Michigan Commission on Services to the Aging. Each AAA is governed by a board of directors made up of local community members and serves as the focal point for aging services in its designated geographic region.

Your local 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 planning and service area (PSA). Each of Michigan’s 16 AAAs serves multiple counties and contracts with community agencies to deliver services where you need them most.

Michigan AAAs arrange for the delivery of services through community agencies rather than providing all services directly. This approach allows them to leverage existing community resources and ensure services are available throughout their often large geographic areas. Each AAA operates under the oversight of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services through the Bureau of Aging, Community Living, and Supports (ACLS Bureau).

The ACLS Bureau contracts with AAAs to plan and provide needed services to seniors in specified geographic regions of the state. Each AAA develops comprehensive area plans that identify local needs and outline strategies to address them effectively within available resources.

Michigan’s 16 Area Agencies on Aging: Complete Directory

Note: Director names and contact information may change. Always verify current details by calling your regional AAA directly.

Core Services Provided by Michigan 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 region
• 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 contacts the agency.

Nutrition Programs

Michigan AAAs coordinate 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, Michigan 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.

Carry-Out Meals: Some AAAs provide carry-out meal programs where seniors can pick up prepared meals at designated locations, offering flexibility for those who can travel but have difficulty preparing meals.

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 contract with local providers 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 AAAs coordinate volunteer driver programs where trained community volunteers provide transportation using their own vehicles, particularly important in rural areas.

Reality Check: Transportation services often have waiting lists, especially in rural Michigan. 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 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 (MMAP)

Through the Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP), 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.

Michigan Medicaid Waiver Programs Through AAAs

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

MI Choice Waiver Program

The MI Choice Waiver is Michigan’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, 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
• Nursing services
• Community living supports

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be Michigan Medicaid eligible
• Must be 18+ (if disabled) or 65+ (if elderly)
• 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: $9,660 in countable assets, income under $2,901/month

Reality Check: The MI Choice Waiver may have waiting lists in some areas. AAAs conduct telephone screenings to determine potential eligibility and waiting list placement. Priority is often given to people at immediate risk of nursing home placement.

Self-Determination in Long-Term Care

This option within the MI Choice Waiver allows participants to self-direct their care services:

How It Works:

• You receive a budget for personal care services
• You can hire anyone you choose as your caregiver (including family members in some cases)
• You have more control over when and how services are provided
• Support is available to help you manage your care plan

Community Transition Program

This program helps people move from nursing facilities back into the community:

Services Include:

• Transition planning and coordination
• Housing assistance and setup
• Connection to community supports
• Ongoing case management
• Emergency assistance during transition

Special Population Services

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Michigan 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 ACLS Bureau
• 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
• Detroit and Grand Rapids areas have LGBTQ+-friendly senior housing options

Veteran Seniors

Michigan has approximately 600,000 veterans, many of whom are seniors. AAAs coordinate with the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency 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
• VA Transportation Navigation Hub coordination

Key Resources:

• Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency: 517-284-5300
• Veteran Service Officers located throughout the state
• VA Medical Centers in Detroit, Ann Arbor, Battle Creek, Iron Mountain, and Saginaw
• Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)
• VET-LIFT Transportation: 877-838-5438

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.

Rural Seniors and Families

Rural seniors in Michigan face unique challenges including geographic isolation, limited transportation, and harsh winter weather. 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
• Winter emergency preparedness programs

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

Upper Peninsula Seniors

The Upper Peninsula faces unique challenges due to geographic isolation, harsh winters, and limited resources. The U.P. Area Agency on Aging has developed specialized approaches:

U.P.-Specific Services:

• Extended service areas to reach remote communities
• U.P. Senior Helpline: 1-800-338-7227 for information and referral
• Winter weather contingency plans
• Coordination with mining heritage communities
• Partnership with tribal communities
• Mobile outreach programs

How to Access Services

Step 1: Contact Your Regional AAA

Find your AAA using the directory above based on your county of residence. Each AAA has its own phone number and service hours, typically 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 community 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 ($3-6 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 Medicaid Coverage

Many services can be covered by:

• Michigan 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 Michigan ACLS Bureau
• Federal Administration for Community Living
• Independent auditors
• Local advisory councils
• Michigan Commission on Services to the Aging

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 ACLS Bureau – 517-241-4100 for state-level review
4. Contact the Michigan Long-Term Care Ombudsman – through your local 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 Michigan’s regional AAA system work differently from other states?

Michigan’s 16 AAAs each cover large geographic regions with multiple counties, unlike states that have county-based systems. This means your AAA coordinates services across a wider area, working with local community agencies to deliver services. You’ll contact your regional AAA first, and they’ll connect you with local service providers in your specific community.

What’s the difference between MI Choice and regular Medicaid in Michigan?

Regular Medicaid covers basic health services like doctor visits and hospital care. MI Choice is a waiver program that adds home and community-based services like personal care, home modifications, and adult day care for people who would otherwise need nursing home care. You can have both – regular Medicaid for health services and MI Choice for long-term care supports.

Can family members be paid to provide care through MI Choice?

Yes, under the Self-Determination option within MI Choice, family members can be hired as paid caregivers in some circumstances. There are restrictions – spouses typically cannot be paid caregivers, but adult children often can. Your supports coordinator will explain the specific rules and help you navigate this option if it’s appropriate for your situation.

How do I access services if I live in a very rural area of Michigan?

Rural AAAs have adapted their service delivery models to reach remote areas. This includes mobile services, volunteer driver programs, partnerships with local churches and community organizations, and flexible scheduling. While you may have fewer options than urban areas, services are designed to reach you. Some AAAs also use telehealth and virtual services to bridge geographic gaps.

What happens during Michigan’s harsh winters to aging services?

Michigan AAAs have winter preparedness plans that include emergency food supplies, welfare checks during severe weather, modified transportation schedules, and coordination with emergency services. Home-delivered meals often continue even in bad weather, though with modified schedules. Many AAAs maintain emergency supply lists and priority contact systems for isolated seniors.

How does the U.P. Senior Helpline work differently from other regions?

The U.P. Senior Helpline (1-800-338-7227) serves the entire Upper Peninsula due to its unique geography and small population density. It provides centralized information and referral for all 15 U.P. counties, then connects callers to appropriate local services. This system helps overcome the challenges of serving such a large, sparsely populated area.

Are there special considerations for seniors in Michigan’s automotive communities?

Many Michigan AAAs serve communities with automotive industry heritage, including retirees from auto plants. These AAAs often have experience with union retiree benefits, plant closure transitions, and coordinate with UAW retiree services. They understand the specific needs of automotive retirees and can help navigate both union benefits and public programs.

How do Michigan AAAs coordinate with the state’s many universities and medical centers?

Michigan AAAs maintain partnerships with major university medical centers like University of Michigan, Michigan State, and Wayne State. They help coordinate services for patients and families, provide transportation to medical appointments, and often have social workers stationed at or regularly coordinate with major medical facilities to ensure smooth transitions from hospital to home.

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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:

• Your regional Area Agency on Aging (see directory above)
• Michigan ACLS Bureau: 517-241-4100
• Michigan Commission on Services to the 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.