Area Agencies on Aging in New Hampshire

Complete Guide to Area Agencies on Aging in New Hampshire (2026)

Last updated: January 06, 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:

• New Hampshire Bureau of Adult and Aging Services: 1-800-949-0470 – Adult protective services and general assistance
• New Hampshire Adult Protective Services: 1-800-949-0470 – Report elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman: 1-800-442-5640 – For nursing home and assisted living concerns
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 – Free, confidential support
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 – Mental health crisis support

For immediate food assistance:

• Contact your local Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) for emergency food programs
• New Hampshire 2-1-1 – Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency resources

Key Takeaways

• New Hampshire has 13 Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) serving all 10 counties across the state
• All services are free or low-cost for seniors 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• ADRCs are your single entry point for all aging and disability services – formerly known as ServiceLink
• No income requirements for basic information and assistance services
• Most ADRCs coordinate home-delivered meals, transportation, legal help, and Medicare counseling
• Choices for Independence (CFI) Waiver program can help you stay in your home instead of moving to a nursing facility
• New Hampshire has the nation’s second oldest population with innovative age-friendly initiatives
• Strong emphasis on aging in place and community-based services

What Are Area Agencies on Aging?

New Hampshire takes a unique approach to aging services through its network of 13 Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs), formerly known as ServiceLink. These centers function as the state’s Area Agencies on Aging under the federal Older Americans Act, but operate with an integrated model that serves people of all ages and disabilities.

ADRCs are community-based resource centers that serve as “no wrong door” entry points into New Hampshire’s aging and disability service system. Rather than having separate aging and disability systems, New Hampshire’s innovative approach integrates services through the NHCarePath initiative, making it easier for residents to find help regardless of age or situation.

Each ADRC covers specific geographic areas and works closely with local providers, healthcare systems, and community organizations to deliver services. The centers are overseen by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of Adult and Aging Services (BAAS).

New Hampshire’s approach reflects the state’s recognition that it has the nation’s second oldest population and the need for comprehensive, coordinated services that support aging in place and community living.

New Hampshire’s 13 Aging & Disability Resource Centers: Regional Directory

New Hampshire’s ADRC system includes 13 primary centers with multiple satellite locations throughout the state:

Note: ADRC locations and service areas may have changed. Contact New Hampshire DHHS at 603-271-7014 for current information.

Core Services Provided by New Hampshire ADRCs

Information and Assistance

Every ADRC provides free information and assistance as part of New Hampshire’s “no wrong door” approach. Staff members are trained to answer questions about:

• Available programs and services in your area
• Eligibility requirements for different programs
• How to apply for benefits and services including Medicaid
• Referrals to other agencies and organizations
• Benefits counseling for Medicare, Medicaid, and other programs
• Long-term care options counseling

This service is available to anyone who calls, regardless of age, income, or situation. New Hampshire’s integrated approach means one call can connect you to multiple types of assistance.

Options Counseling (Person-Centered Counseling)

ADRCs provide specialized one-on-one counseling to help individuals and their families make informed decisions about long-term care and support services:

• Assessment of individual needs and preferences
• Education about available options and their costs
• Support in making difficult care decisions
• Assistance understanding Medicare and Medicaid options
• Help developing long-term care plans

This counseling is completely objective and designed to support individual choice and self-determination.

Nutrition Programs

New Hampshire ADRCs coordinate comprehensive nutrition programs that address food insecurity while promoting social connections:

Congregate Meals: Nutritious meals served at senior centers, community centers, and other gathering places throughout New Hampshire. These programs provide vital social interaction and often include nutrition education. 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: For seniors who have difficulty leaving their homes, ADRCs coordinate meal delivery programs. Services include hot meals, frozen meals, and special diet accommodations. Delivery frequency varies based on need and location.

Nutrition Education: Classes on healthy eating, cooking skills, food safety, and managing special diets are offered through many ADRCs.

Transportation Services

Transportation services are coordinated through ADRCs and local providers, addressing New Hampshire’s mix of urban and rural transportation needs:

Medical Transportation: Priority service for getting to medical appointments, including trips to specialized care in Manchester, Nashua, or Boston area hospitals.

General Transportation: Scheduled transportation for essential trips like grocery shopping, banking, pharmacy visits, and social activities.

Volunteer Driver Programs: Many areas rely on volunteer drivers to provide transportation, especially in rural parts of the state.

New Hampshire Reality Check: Transportation services can be limited in rural areas and may require advance booking. Winter weather can impact service availability throughout the state.

Legal Assistance

ADRCs coordinate free legal services for seniors 60+ in civil matters that affect their health, safety, and economic well-being:

• Medicare and Medicaid problems and appeals
• Social Security and disability benefit issues
• Housing problems and landlord-tenant disputes
• Consumer protection from scams and fraud
• Basic estate planning (wills, advance directives)
• Elder law and age discrimination issues
• Public benefit applications and appeals

Legal assistance is provided through partnerships with legal aid organizations and volunteer lawyers.

Medicare and Insurance Counseling (SHIP)

New Hampshire’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free, unbiased counseling through ADRCs and trained volunteers:

• Medicare enrollment assistance and plan comparisons
• Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan reviews
• Medicare Part D prescription drug plan selection
• Medicare Advantage plan evaluations
• Help resolving billing problems and claim denials
• Assistance understanding Medicare statements and coverage

SHIP counselors are trained volunteers who don’t sell insurance and provide completely objective advice.

Family Caregiver Support

New Hampshire ADRCs operate Family Caregiver Support Programs that provide comprehensive assistance to family members caring for older adults:

Information and Education: Training on caregiving techniques, stress management, understanding chronic conditions, and navigating New Hampshire’s service system.

Counseling and Support Groups: Individual counseling and peer support groups, including specialized groups for dementia caregivers and long-distance caregivers.

Respite Care: Temporary care services that provide family caregivers with breaks, including in-home companions, adult day programs, or short-term facility care.

Supplemental Services: Limited funding for services not covered elsewhere, such as home modifications, assistive devices, emergency response systems, or respite care.

Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP)

ADRCs coordinate Senior Medicare Patrol programs that help seniors protect themselves from Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse:

• Education about Medicare fraud prevention
• Assistance reviewing Medicare statements and bills
• Help reporting suspected fraud or errors
• Training for volunteer fraud prevention educators

New Hampshire Medicaid Waiver Programs Through ADRCs

New Hampshire offers innovative Medicaid programs that help eligible seniors and people with disabilities receive care in their homes instead of nursing facilities. ADRCs serve as entry points and coordinate these programs.

Choices for Independence (CFI) Waiver

The CFI Waiver is New Hampshire’s primary home and community-based services program for seniors and adults with disabilities.

Services Include:

• Adult day health services
• Personal care and home health aide services
• Homemaker services (light housekeeping, meal preparation)
• Respite care for family caregivers
• Home and vehicle modifications
• Personal emergency response systems
• Skilled nursing services in the home
• Assistive technology and medical equipment
• Adult family care (adult foster care)
• Residential care facility services (assisted living)

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be New Hampshire Medicaid eligible
• Age 65+ or ages 18-64 with physical disability or chronic illness
• Must need nursing facility level of care
• Financial limits: $2,500 in countable assets, income under $2,901/month (2025)
• Must choose to receive services at home/community instead of nursing facility

Key Features:

• Self-direction options available through Participant Directed and Managed Services (PDMS)
• Can be used in assisted living facilities and adult family care homes
• Transitional services available for those moving from nursing homes back to community

Personal Care Attendant Services (PCAS)

New Hampshire offers Personal Care Attendant Services through its regular Medicaid program for adults with physical disabilities:

Services Include:

• Personal care assistance with activities of daily living
• Help with mobility and transfers
• Assistance with medication management
• Support for individuals who primarily use wheelchairs

Key Features:

• Available through regular Medicaid (not a waiver)
• No waiting list – entitlement program
• Stricter financial and medical eligibility than CFI Waiver

Home Health Services

Available through various funding sources including Older Americans Act and Social Services Block Grant:

Services Include:

• Skilled nursing services
• Personal care assistance
• Homemaker services
• Home-delivered meals
• Case management

Eligibility:

• Age 60+ with greatest economic and social need
• Some programs have income limits (Title XX services have $1,600.20/month limit for 2025)

Special Population Services

Rural Communities

New Hampshire’s rural areas, particularly in the North Country and other remote regions, require specialized service approaches:

Rural-Specific Adaptations:

• Mobile service delivery and outreach programs
• Volunteer networks covering long distances
• Coordination with local businesses and community organizations
• Technology solutions including telehealth coordination
• Seasonal service adjustments for weather and tourism

Challenges to Expect:

• Limited service provider availability
• Long distances to medical care and services
• Weather-related service interruptions
• Limited cell phone and internet coverage in some areas
• Higher costs due to travel distances

Seasonal Residents

New Hampshire’s seasonal population presents unique service coordination challenges:

Seasonal Considerations:

• Information and assistance available to all residents
• Coordination with services in other states of residence
• Emergency planning for seasonal residents
• Limited ongoing services for part-time residents

LGBTQ+ Seniors

New Hampshire ADRCs work to ensure LGBTQ+ seniors feel welcome and safe when accessing services:

What to Expect:

• Non-discrimination policies in place
• Staff training on LGBTQ+ cultural competency
• Partnerships with LGBTQ+ organizations in larger communities
• Safe space designations at some senior centers
• Support groups for LGBTQ+ seniors in some areas

Veteran Seniors

New Hampshire has a significant veteran population, and ADRCs coordinate with the New Hampshire Department of Veterans Affairs:

Veteran-Specific Services:

• Help applying for VA benefits and healthcare
• Transportation to VA medical facilities in Manchester and White River Junction, VT
• Assistance with VA pension and disability claims
• Coordination with Veterans Service Officers
• Honor guard and burial assistance coordination

Low-Income Seniors

New Hampshire’s high cost of living can create challenges for seniors on fixed incomes:

Financial Assistance Programs:

• Social Services Block Grant (Title XX) programs for low-income seniors
• Assistance accessing food assistance programs
• Help with utility assistance programs
• Coordination with local food banks and emergency assistance

How to Access Services

Step 1: Contact Your Local ADRC

Contact your local ADRC directly using the directory above, or call the New Hampshire Bureau of Adult and Aging Services at 603-271-7014 for assistance finding your local ADRC. Services are typically available Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 4:30 PM.

Step 2: Initial Information Gathering

ADRC staff will ask questions about:

• Your location and contact information
• What type of assistance you’re seeking
• Your current living situation and support system
• Whether you have urgent needs requiring immediate attention
• Basic information about your resources and insurance coverage

This conversation helps staff understand your situation and determine the best way to assist you through New Hampshire’s integrated service system.

Step 3: Assessment (If Needed)

For ongoing services, you may need a more detailed assessment:

• Phone assessment for information and referral services
• In-person assessment at ADRC offices or community locations
• Home visits for complex care coordination
• Standardized assessment tools used statewide

Assessments are conducted using person-centered planning approaches that focus on individual preferences and goals.

Step 4: Service Coordination

Based on your assessment, ADRC staff will:

• Explain available services in your specific area
• Help you apply for relevant benefits including New Hampshire Medicaid
• Make referrals to local service providers
• Coordinate with your healthcare providers
• Develop person-centered service plans for complex situations

Step 5: Ongoing Support

ADRCs provide continued support through:

• Regular check-ins and reassessments
• Help accessing new services as needs change
• Advocacy when problems arise with service providers
• Annual reassessments for waiver programs
• Coordination with the broader NHCarePath system

Costs and Financial Assistance

Free Services

These services are available at no cost to eligible participants:

• Information and assistance through ADRC
• Options counseling and person-centered planning
• Benefits counseling (Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security)
• Legal consultations for seniors 60+
• Case management and care coordination
• Long-term care ombudsman services

Donation-Based Services

These services have suggested donations but cannot turn away those unable to pay:

• Congregate meals ($3-6 suggested donation)
• Transportation ($3-10 suggested donation depending on distance)
• Home-delivered meals ($3-6 suggested donation per meal)

Income-Based Services

Some services use sliding fee scales or have income limits:

• Title XX (SSBG) services for those with income under $1,600.20/month
• Some home care services
• Adult day programs
• Respite care services

Insurance and Medicaid Coverage

Many services can be covered by:

• New Hampshire Medicaid including CFI Waiver
• Medicare (for medically necessary services)
• Private insurance
• Veterans benefits
• Other federal and state programs

New Hampshire Financial Reality: The state’s high cost of living affects service delivery:

• Services may cost more due to higher wages and housing costs
• Limited affordable housing affects aging in place options
• Property taxes can strain seniors on fixed incomes
• Services are prioritized for those with greatest need

Quality and Accountability

Program Standards

All ADRCs must meet federal and state standards for:

• Staff qualifications and ongoing training
• Service quality and safety protocols
• Person-centered planning requirements
• Financial management and accountability
• Non-discrimination and accessibility policies

Oversight and Monitoring

ADRCs are monitored by:

• New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, BAAS
• Federal Administration for Community Living
• Independent financial auditors
• Consumer advisory groups
• Local community feedback systems

Complaint Process

If you have concerns about services:

1. Talk to your service provider first – Many issues can be resolved directly
2. Contact the ADRC director – Each ADRC has procedures for handling complaints
3. Call BAAS – 603-271-7014 for state-level review
4. Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman – 1-800-442-5640 for facility-related complaints
5. Contact Disability Rights Center-NH – 603-228-0432 for disability rights issues

Your Rights

As a service recipient, you have the right to:

• Be treated with dignity and respect regardless of background
• Receive person-centered, culturally appropriate services
• Have your personal information kept confidential
• Participate in decisions about your care and services
• File complaints without fear of retaliation
• Receive services that meet established quality standards

Resources by Region

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does New Hampshire’s ADRC system differ from traditional Area Agencies on Aging?

New Hampshire’s ADRC system integrates aging and disability services through a “no wrong door” approach. Unlike traditional Area Agencies on Aging that serve only older adults, ADRCs serve people of all ages with disabilities, making the system more comprehensive and coordinated through the NHCarePath initiative.

What makes New Hampshire’s approach to aging services unique?

New Hampshire has the nation’s second oldest population and has developed innovative responses including the integrated ADRC system, strong emphasis on aging in place, the NHCarePath “no wrong door” approach, and the New Hampshire Commission on Aging working on a 10-year blueprint for the state.

Can I access services if I’m a seasonal resident or live in New Hampshire part-time?

ADRCs can provide information and assistance to seasonal residents, and emergency services are available to all residents. However, ongoing services are primarily for permanent residents. ADRCs can help coordinate care with your other state of residence.

How do ADRCs coordinate with New Hampshire’s high-cost healthcare system?

ADRCs work closely with major medical centers like Dartmouth-Hitchcock and Elliot Health System to coordinate care. They help navigate insurance options, connect people to financial assistance programs, and coordinate with Medicare and Medicaid to maximize coverage.

What services are available for family caregivers in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire has robust family caregiver support including respite services, caregiver training, support groups, and supplemental services. The state recognizes the critical role of family caregivers, especially given the aging population and preference for aging in place.

How do ADRCs serve New Hampshire’s rural communities?

Rural ADRCs use volunteer networks, mobile services, partnerships with local organizations, and technology solutions to serve remote areas. They understand the challenges of transportation, distance, and limited services in rural parts of the state.

What is the waiting time for Choices for Independence Waiver services?

New Hampshire generally has shorter waiting times than many states for its CFI Waiver, but this varies by region and specific services needed. ADRCs can provide current wait time estimates and help with interim planning while waiting for services.

How does New Hampshire’s high cost of living affect aging services?

New Hampshire’s high housing costs and property taxes can strain seniors on fixed incomes. ADRCs help connect people to financial assistance programs, housing resources, and services that help people age in place affordably.

Are services available during New Hampshire’s harsh winters?

ADRCs have emergency protocols for winter storms and coordinate with local emergency management. They may provide emergency services, welfare checks, and work with snow removal and heating assistance programs. Personal Emergency Response Systems are prioritized for isolated seniors.

How does New Hampshire coordinate services across state lines?

Many New Hampshire residents receive medical care in Boston or work with Vermont providers. ADRCs coordinate with providers and programs in neighboring states and can help navigate interstate service coordination, especially in border communities.

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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 & Disability Resource Center 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:

• New Hampshire Bureau of Adult and Aging Services: 603-271-7014
• Your local Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC)
• New Hampshire Commission on Aging: www.nhcoa.nh.gov

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About This Guide

Researched and Compiled by Grants for Seniors

This guide has been carefully researched using publicly available government resources and official program websites. We systematically review federal and state program information to create comprehensive, accurate guides for older Americans seeking assistance.

Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (HHS, ACL, CMS), New Hampshire state government departments, official program documentation, and verified nonprofit organization resources.

Verification Process: Each program listing undergoes thorough verification by cross-referencing information across multiple official sources, checking current program status, verifying contact information, and confirming eligibility requirements.

Information Currency:
• Last Updated: January 2026
• Sources Verified: January 2026
• Next Review: April 2026

Important Note: Government programs can change without advance notice. While this guide uses the most current available information, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with program administrators before applying.

Found an Error? If you discover outdated information or additional programs that should be included, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Always confirm program details with official sources before applying.

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