Area Agencies on Aging in Mississippi

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

Last updated: January 13, 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 – Use the county search tool on MDHS website or see directory below
• Mississippi Vulnerable Persons Abuse Hotline: 1-844-437-6282 – 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 Mississippi – Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency resources and crisis support

Key Takeaways

• Mississippi has Area Agencies on Aging serving all 82 counties through regional planning and development districts
• All services are free or low-cost for adults 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• Each AAA operates through Planning and Development Districts serving multiple counties
• Every AAA coordinates the Elderly & Disabled Medicaid Waiver program – helping you stay home instead of nursing facilities
• No income requirements for information and assistance services
• All AAAs provide home-delivered meals, transportation assistance, Medicare counseling, and case management
• Mississippi Access to Care (MAC) Network connects you to services through a “No Wrong Door” system

What Are Area Agencies on Aging?

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in Mississippi are operated through regional Planning and Development Districts that coordinate and deliver essential services for older adults and people with disabilities. These agencies serve as the focal point for aging services in their designated geographic regions, working under the oversight of the Mississippi Department of Human Services, Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS).

Mississippi’s AAAs function as comprehensive resource centers for aging services across large geographic regions. They don’t only provide direct services – they also plan, coordinate, and fund programs throughout their service areas. Each AAA serves multiple counties and works with local nonprofits, government agencies, and community organizations to deliver services where you need them.

The Mississippi Department of Human Services, Division of Aging and Adult Services 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 within Mississippi’s predominantly rural landscape.

Mississippi AAAs work closely with the Mississippi Access to Care (MAC) Network, which serves as a “No Wrong Door” system to help individuals navigate through the complexities of administrative and community resource barriers and locate appropriate services and supports.

Mississippi’s Area Agencies on Aging: Regional Directory

Mississippi’s AAAs are operated through Planning and Development Districts serving multiple counties. Here are the major regional providers:

Central Mississippi Planning and Development District (CMPDD)

• Counties Served: Copiah, Hinds, Madison, Rankin, Simpson, Warren, Yazoo
• Phone: 601-981-1511
• Address: 1020 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 1200, Ridgeland, MS 39157
• Services: Comprehensive aging services including Jackson metro area

Three Rivers Planning and Development District

• Counties Served: Calhoun, Chickasaw, Itawamba, Lafayette, Lee, Monroe, Pontotoc, Union
• Phone: 800-948-3090
• Address: 75 South Main Street, Pontotoc, MS 38863
• Services: Northeast Mississippi rural communities

South Mississippi Planning and Development District (SMPDD)

• Counties Served: Forrest, George, Greene, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson Davis, Lamar, Marion, Pearl River, Perry, Stone, Wayne
• Phone: 228-868-2311 / 800-444-8014
• Address: 9229 Highway 49, Gulfport, MS 39503
• Services: Gulf Coast and Pine Belt regions

North Delta Planning and Development District

• Counties Served: Coahoma, DeSoto, Panola, Quitman, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tunica
• Phone: 662-561-4100 / 800-844-2433
• Address: Clarksdale, MS
• Services: Northwestern Mississippi Delta region

Other Regional Districts:

• Golden Triangle Planning and Development District – Clay, Lowndes, Noxubee, Oktibbeha, Webster, Winston
• Mississippi Association of Planning and Development Districts coordinates statewide services
• Additional districts serve remaining counties throughout the state

Note: Contact information may change. Always verify current details by calling your regional district or using the MDHS county search tool.

Core Services Provided by Mississippi 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

Mississippi 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 throughout Mississippi. 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, Mississippi AAAs coordinate extensive home-delivered meal programs. Volunteers deliver hot or frozen meals directly to your home, with a minimum of five frozen meals per week provided through this program. Priority is given to seniors who are homebound, have limited informal support, or are at nutritional risk.

Pay As You Go Program: Nutritionally balanced frozen meals available to individuals 60+ or disabled individuals under 60. These meals are purchased monthly for $130.00 (five packs) through the Area Agency on Aging.

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 more populated 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 Mississippi.

Reality Check: Transportation services often have waiting lists, especially in rural Mississippi. 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 Health Insurance Counseling (SHIP)

Through the Mississippi State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), 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 management teams typically include a registered nurse and a licensed social worker who 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 institutional respite care.

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

Mississippi Medicaid Waiver Programs Through AAAs

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

Elderly & Disabled (E&D) Waiver

The Elderly & Disabled Waiver is Mississippi’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
• Adult day care services (including transportation)
• Extended home health services (skilled nursing, physical therapy, speech therapy)
• Home-delivered meals
• Respite care (in-home and institutional)
• Case management services
• Community transition services for those leaving nursing facilities
• Environmental safety services
• Medication management
• Physical therapy and speech therapy

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be Mississippi Medicaid eligible
• Must be 21+ years old
• 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: $4,000 in countable assets for individuals, income up to 300% of SSI ($2,901/month in 2025)

Reality Check: The E&D Waiver may have waiting lists. AAAs work with the Mississippi Division of Medicaid to process applications and coordinate services.

Assisted Living Waiver

This waiver allows eligible individuals to reside in licensed assisted living facilities as an alternative to nursing home care.

How It Works:

• Medicaid pays for supportive services in the facility
• Participants must contribute to room and board costs
• Must require nursing facility level of care
• Must be 21+ and Medicaid eligible

Independent Living (IL) Waiver

For individuals with severe orthopedic and/or neurological impairments, including Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

Services Include:

• Personal care attendant services
• Specialized medical equipment and supplies
• Environmental accessibility adaptations (home modifications)
• Case management
• Transition assistance

Traumatic Brain Injury/Spinal Cord Injury (TBI/SCI) Waiver

For individuals who have brain injuries or spinal cord injuries due to external trauma.

Services Include:

• Personal care attendant services
• Specialized medical equipment and supplies
• Environmental accessibility modifications
• Respite care
• Case management
• Transition assistance

Special Population Services

African American Seniors

Mississippi has the highest percentage of African American residents in the nation. AAAs work to provide culturally competent services and address health disparities.

Cultural Adaptations:

• Staff training on cultural competency and health disparities
• Partnerships with African American churches and community organizations
• Programming that addresses specific health concerns prevalent in the community
• Culturally appropriate nutrition programs
• Outreach through trusted community leaders

Rural Seniors and Families

Mississippi is predominantly rural, with many seniors living in isolated communities. AAAs have adapted their services to meet rural needs:

Rural-Specific Adaptations:

• Mobile service delivery programs
• Volunteer driver programs for long-distance medical trips
• Partnerships with faith-based organizations
• Flexible service delivery schedules
• Coordination with agricultural communities
• Telehealth and virtual services where available

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
• Distance to medical facilities

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Mississippi 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 MDHS Division of Aging and Adult Services
• Limited but growing LGBTQ+-friendly resources in urban areas

Veteran Seniors

Mississippi has a significant veteran population. AAAs coordinate with the Mississippi 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:

• Mississippi Department of Veterans Affairs: 601-576-4850
• Veteran Service Officers located throughout the state
• VA Medical Centers in Jackson, Biloxi, and Hattiesburg
• 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

How to Access Services

Step 1: Contact Your Regional AAA or Use MAC Network

Find your AAA using the MDHS county search tool at mdhs.ms.gov/aging or contact your regional Planning and Development District. You can also access services through the Mississippi Access to Care (MAC) Network at mississippiaccesstocare.org.

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 waiver programs, you may need a comprehensive 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
• Outreach 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 Medicaid Coverage

Many services can be covered by:

• Mississippi 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 Mississippi Division of Aging and Adult Services
• Federal Administration for Community Living
• Independent auditors
• Local advisory councils
• Consumer input and feedback

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 MDHS Division of Aging and Adult Services – 601-359-4929 for state-level review
4. Contact the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman – 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 Mississippi’s Planning and Development District system work for aging services?

Mississippi operates its AAAs through regional Planning and Development Districts that serve multiple counties. This system allows for coordinated service delivery across large geographic areas while maintaining local connections. When you contact your district, they coordinate services throughout their multi-county region and can connect you with local providers in your specific community.

What is the Mississippi Access to Care (MAC) Network and how does it help?

The MAC Network is Mississippi’s “No Wrong Door” system that helps individuals navigate through complex administrative barriers to locate appropriate services and supports. You can access information online at mississippiaccesstocare.org or through your local AAA. MAC specialists help you make informed decisions about long-term care options and connect you with resources in your community.

Are there special considerations for seniors in Mississippi’s rural communities?

Yes, Mississippi AAAs have adapted extensively for rural service delivery. This includes mobile services, volunteer driver programs for long-distance medical trips, partnerships with rural churches and community organizations, and flexible scheduling. However, rural areas may have longer wait times, less frequent services, and fewer provider options than urban areas.

How do Mississippi AAAs address the needs of the large African American senior population?

Mississippi AAAs work to provide culturally competent services through staff training, partnerships with African American churches and community organizations, and programming that addresses specific health concerns. Many AAAs have experience serving diverse communities and understand the importance of cultural sensitivity in service delivery.

What happens during hurricane season to aging services along the Gulf Coast?

Gulf Coast AAAs have comprehensive emergency preparedness plans including evacuation assistance, emergency shelters, emergency food and water supplies, and coordination with emergency management agencies. Many services continue with modified schedules during severe weather, and AAAs maintain emergency contact lists for vulnerable seniors.

How does the hot, humid climate affect aging services in Mississippi?

Mississippi AAAs provide cooling center information during extreme heat, maintain air-conditioned transportation vehicles, and adjust outdoor activities during hot weather. Many AAAs have emergency protocols for extreme heat events and coordinate with local emergency management for heat-related health concerns among seniors.

Can I get help with Medicare if I live in a very rural area of Mississippi?

Yes, SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) services are available statewide through AAAs. While face-to-face counseling may require travel in very rural areas, phone counseling is available, and some AAAs provide mobile services or coordinate with local healthcare facilities to provide Medicare counseling in rural communities.

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

AAAs maintain relationships with the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, other regional medical centers, and VA facilities. They help coordinate services for patients and families, provide transportation assistance, and work with medical social workers to ensure smooth transitions from hospital to home. Some AAAs have partnerships with universities for research and student training programs.

---

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 or Mississippi Department of Human Services 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)
• Mississippi Department of Human Services, Division of Aging and Adult Services: 601-359-4929
• Mississippi Access to Care Network: mississippiaccesstocare.org

---

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.

---

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