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Senior Centers in Louisiana: A Practical Guide for Older Adults
Last updated: August 2025
If You Need Emergency Help
- Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.
- Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. See more at the SAMHSA 988 page: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988
- Dial 211 to find local services (meals, shelters, transportation) in Louisiana: https://www.la211.org
- Suspect abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an older adult? Contact Elderly Protective Services through the Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs (GOEA). Use the Elderly Protective Services information on GOEA: https://goea.la.gov and follow the Elderly Protective Services link for current reporting options.
- During hurricanes or other disasters, check the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP): https://gohsep.la.gov and Get A Game Plan (preparedness tips): https://www.getagameplan.org
Key Takeaways
- Senior centers in Louisiana are community hubs for people generally age 60 and older. They offer meals, exercise, classes, social activities, benefits counseling, and rides to and from programs, depending on location and funding.
- Many services are supported by the Older Americans Act and ask for a voluntary donation instead of a set fee. Some programs (like special classes, trips, or adult day health care) may charge a fee or accept Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, or other insurance.
- Start by finding your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) or Council on Aging. Use the Eldercare Locator to search by ZIP code: https://eldercare.acl.gov. You can also visit the Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs (GOEA) to find programs: https://goea.la.gov
- If transportation, cost, or mobility is a barrier, ask about paratransit under the ADA, local senior transportation, home-delivered meals, and in-home services.
- Program details and schedules change. Always confirm with the center or agency linked in this guide.
What This Guide Covers
- How to find and choose a senior center in Louisiana
- What services centers commonly provide (meals, exercise, classes, counseling)
- Transportation, costs, and ways to pay
- Tips for rural areas, veterans, LGBTQ+ older adults, disabled older adults, and Native communities
- Where to verify information and get help fast
All external links in this guide point to official government or widely recognized organizations.
What Is a Senior Center?
Senior centers are community locations where older adults meet for a nutritious meal, exercise classes, learning, social activities, and help with benefits. Many are run by parish Councils on Aging, city governments, or non-profits, and are coordinated statewide through the Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs (GOEA): https://goea.la.gov
Centers are not all the same. Some are large “multi-purpose” centers; others are smaller meal sites or activity rooms in churches, libraries, or community buildings. What’s offered depends on local funding, space, and staff.
- Typical eligibility: age 60+ for Older Americans Act programming (see ACL’s overview: https://acl.gov/programs/health-wellness/nutrition-services). Spouses or caregivers under 60 may sometimes join certain activities—ask your center.
- Typical cost: no set fee for Older Americans Act core services; voluntary donations help keep programs going. Some classes, trips, or services may have a fee.
- Accessibility: Ask about wheelchair access, ASL interpretation, large print materials, or quiet rooms if needed.
How to Find a Senior Center Near You
- Eldercare Locator (Administration for Community Living): search by ZIP code for your AAA, senior centers, and transportation services: https://eldercare.acl.gov
- Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs (GOEA): statewide programs, Elderly Protective Services, and links to parish and regional resources: https://goea.la.gov
- Louisiana 211: dial 211 or visit the statewide search page for “senior center,” “meals,” or “transportation”: https://www.la211.org
Tip: When you call, ask, “What services are at my nearest senior center?” and “Do I need to register first?”
What Louisiana Senior Centers Typically Offer
Table: Common services, who qualifies, and notes. Programs vary by location.
[su_table responsive=”yes” alternate=”yes” fixed=”no” class=”custom-su-table”]
| Service | What it includes | Who qualifies | Typical cost | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Congregate meals | Hot lunch on weekdays or scheduled days; nutrition education | Generally age 60+ | Voluntary donation | Older Americans Act nutrition services (ACL): https://acl.gov/programs/health-wellness/nutrition-services |
| Home-delivered meals (if offered) | Meals to your home if you’re homebound and meet program criteria | Priority to 60+ with greatest need | No set fee; donations encouraged | ACL home-delivered meals overview: https://acl.gov/programs/health-wellness/nutrition-services |
| Exercise & fall-prevention | Low-impact fitness, balance classes (e.g., Tai Chi, walking clubs) | Open to older adults; check schedule | Usually free/donation; some classes may have a fee | CDC fall-prevention info: https://www.cdc.gov/falls |
| Education & social activities | Crafts, technology help, card games, music, health talks | Open to older adults | Often free/donation; some special events may have a fee | Ask your local AAA via Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov |
| Transportation (varies) | Rides to the center, grocery stores, or medical appointments in some areas | Priority to older adults and those with disabilities | Often donation-based; may have suggested fare | ADA transportation basics (FTA): https://www.transit.dot.gov/ada |
| Benefits counseling | Help with Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP, and other benefits | Older adults and caregivers | Free | Find SHIP (Medicare counseling): https://www.shiphelp.org |
| Caregiver support | Support groups, respite referrals, training and counseling | Family caregivers of older adults | Usually free | ACL National Family Caregiver Support Program: https://acl.gov/programs/support-caregivers/national-family-caregiver-support-program |
| Legal aid referral | Civil legal issues (benefits, housing, simple wills, powers of attorney) via legal services partners | Income guidelines may apply | Free for eligible clients | Southeast Louisiana Legal Services: https://slls.org; Acadiana Legal Service Corporation: https://www.alsc-law.org |
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Note: Services are guided by the Older Americans Act (federal). Local offerings depend on parish and funding levels. Verify with your local center.
Step-by-Step: Enroll and Get Started
Table: Quick steps to start, who to contact, and tips.
[su_table responsive=”yes” alternate=”yes” fixed=”no” class=”custom-su-table”]
| Step | Who to contact | What to ask | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Find your center | Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov or GOEA: https://goea.la.gov | “Which senior center serves my address?” | Write down the center’s address, phone, and hours. |
| 2. Call ahead | Your local center or AAA | “Do I need to register? What documents should I bring?” | Ask about mobility access, dietary needs, and transportation. |
| 3. Visit & register | Senior center front desk | “What activities and meals are offered this week?” | Arrive early to tour; bring ID and emergency contact info. |
| 4. Arrange rides (if needed) | Center, AAA, 211, or local transit/paratransit | “How do I schedule a ride? Is there a donation or fare?” | If you use a mobility device, say so when booking. |
| 5. Review benefits | SHIP counselor (Medicare): https://www.shiphelp.org | “Can I reduce my drug costs? Any Extra Help or MSP?” | Bring your Medicare card and medication list. |
| 6. Check other supports | DCFS SNAP: https://www.dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/snap; LIHEAP: https://www.lhc.la.gov/energy-assistance | “Can these help with food or utilities?” | Ask your center for application help if needed. |
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Ways to Pay (and Save)
Many center services are funded by the Older Americans Act (no set fee; donations help). Other services may be covered by Medicaid, Medicare Advantage supplemental benefits, the VA, or local grants.
[su_table responsive=”yes” alternate=”yes” fixed=”no” class=”custom-su-table”]
| Program or payer | What it might cover | Who it helps | Where to learn/apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Older Americans Act (OAA) | Congregate/home-delivered meals, transportation, health promotion, caregiver support | Adults 60+ (priority to those with greatest economic/social need) | Program overview (ACL): https://acl.gov/about-acl/authorizing-statutes/older-americans-act |
| Medicaid (Louisiana) | Long-term services and supports, some transportation (NEMT), adult day health care where available | Low-income individuals; medical and financial eligibility | Louisiana Medicaid: https://ldh.la.gov/medicaid and member portal: https://mymedicaid.la.gov |
| Medicare + SHIP counseling | Plan comparisons, Extra Help, Medicare Savings Programs | Medicare beneficiaries | Find Louisiana SHIP via national locator: https://www.shiphelp.org and Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov |
| VA benefits | VA health, VA Community Care, Aid & Attendance (for eligible veterans/spouses) | Veteran seniors and survivors | Louisiana Dept. of Veterans Affairs: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov and VA: https://www.va.gov |
| SNAP (food help) | Monthly benefits to buy groceries | Eligible low-income households | Louisiana DCFS SNAP: https://www.dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/snap |
| LIHEAP (energy help) | Help with home energy bills | Eligible low-income households | Louisiana Housing Corporation (LIHEAP): https://www.lhc.la.gov/energy-assistance |
| Local grants/donations | Trips, special classes, facility upgrades | Varies by parish | Ask your center or AAA; dial 211: https://www.la211.org |
[/su_table]
Note: Eligibility and coverage change. Confirm details with the agencies above.
Transportation: Getting There Safely
Transportation is often the toughest part. Here are realistic options to ask about:
- Senior center or AAA shuttles: Some parishes have routes for meal sites and shopping days. Ask your center about rides and suggested donations. Use Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov
- ADA paratransit: If fixed-route buses run in your area, paratransit must be provided for riders who can’t use regular buses due to a disability. Learn more at the Federal Transit Administration ADA page: https://www.transit.dot.gov/ada
- Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): If you have Medicaid, you may have rides to covered medical appointments. Contact Louisiana Medicaid: https://ldh.la.gov/medicaid or log in to https://mymedicaid.la.gov for plan information.
- Community and faith-based rides: Dial 211 for local volunteer driver programs: https://www.la211.org
- Taxis and ride-hailing: Ask about senior discounts or wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Get pickup location details from the center to avoid confusion.
Reality check: Rural parishes may have limited or no fixed-route transit, and ride availability can fill up fast. Book early, confirm the day before, and have a backup plan (neighbor, family, or church contact).
Health, Wellness, and Safety at Centers
- Falls prevention: Many centers host balance and strength classes. See CDC fall-prevention resources: https://www.cdc.gov/falls
- Health screenings: Blood pressure checks and wellness talks may be offered. These are educational—not a replacement for your doctor.
- Vaccinations: Ask your local health department or pharmacy about vaccines. Medicare covers many vaccines. Medicare info: https://www.medicare.gov
- Benefits counseling: Louisiana SHIP counselors can review your drug plan and check for Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) and Medicare Savings Programs: https://www.shiphelp.org
- Scam awareness: If anyone pressures you to sign up for a plan or give Medicare/SSN info at an event, walk away and report it. See the FTC’s scam guidance: https://www.ftc.gov/scams. Suspect Medicare fraud? Contact the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): https://www.smpresource.org
Legal and Caregiver Support
- Legal help: For civil legal issues (benefits denials, housing, simple wills or powers of attorney), ask your center for a referral or contact:
- Southeast Louisiana Legal Services (SLLS): https://slls.org
- Acadiana Legal Service Corporation: https://www.alsc-law.org
- Caregiver support: Many AAAs offer caregiver counseling, support groups, and limited respite under the National Family Caregiver Support Program (ACL): https://acl.gov/programs/support-caregivers/national-family-caregiver-support-program
Tip: Consider naming a health care proxy and preparing advance directives. Legal aid organizations often have clinics or forms.
Emergency Preparedness in Louisiana
Storms, floods, and heat waves are part of life here. Senior centers often share updates and can help check on members.
- State emergency management: GOHSEP alerts and resources: https://gohsep.la.gov
- Personal/family plan: Get A Game Plan has simple checklists including for older adults: https://www.getagameplan.org
- Disaster food help: DCFS Disaster SNAP (DSNAP) is activated after major disasters: https://www.dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/dsnap
- Sheltering and medical needs: Ask your parish for “medical needs” shelter information ahead of hurricane season. Your senior center or AAA can point you to the right parish office.
Inclusivity and Specialized Resources
LGBTQ+ Older Adults
- Ask your center for LGBTQ+-welcoming programs and support groups.
- NOAGE: New Orleans Advocates for GLBT Elders hosts events and resources in Greater New Orleans: https://www.noagenola.org
- National resource and advocacy: SAGE (Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders): https://www.sageusa.org
Veteran Seniors
- Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs (LDVA): Parish service offices help with benefits claims, veterans homes, and referrals: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Health care, Aid & Attendance, and VA Community Care: https://www.va.gov
- Many centers host veterans coffee hours or special observances—ask your local site.
Disabled Older Adults
- Centers should accommodate mobility devices and provide reasonable accommodations. Ask about accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating.
- ADA resources: U.S. Department of Transportation ADA information: https://www.transit.dot.gov/ada and U.S. Department of Justice ADA page: https://www.ada.gov
- If you need in-home supports, ask your AAA about in-home services and Louisiana Medicaid long-term services and supports (LDH Medicaid: https://ldh.la.gov/medicaid).
Native/Tribal Elders
- Title VI Native American Aging Programs support nutrition and supportive services for Native elders. Locate programs here: https://olderindians.acl.gov
- Federally recognized tribes in Louisiana include Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana (https://chitimacha.gov), Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana (https://www.coushatta.org), Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana (https://www.tunicabiloxi.org), and Jena Band of Choctaw Indians (https://www.jenachoctaw.org). Contact your tribal office for elder services and meal programs.
Rural Seniors and Families
- Transportation and broadband can be limited. Ask your AAA about volunteer drivers, grocery delivery options, and telephone-based programs (check-in calls, telephone support groups).
- Louisiana’s broadband office (ConnectLA) works on expanding internet access; check for updates and local programs: https://connect.la.gov
- If weather or road conditions keep you home, ask about home-delivered meals or virtual programs (phone-friendly when internet is limited).
Resources by Region (Examples and How to Search)
Use these examples and tools to locate the senior center or AAA that serves your parish.
[su_table responsive=”yes” alternate=”yes” fixed=”no” class=”custom-su-table”]
| Region/Area | How to find services | Example local resource |
|---|---|---|
| Greater New Orleans (Orleans Parish) | Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov | New Orleans Council on Aging: https://www.nocoa.org |
| Jefferson Parish | Eldercare Locator or 211 | Jefferson Council on Aging: https://www.jcoa.net |
| Capital Area (East Baton Rouge Parish) | Eldercare Locator or GOEA | East Baton Rouge Council on Aging: https://ebrcoa.org |
| Northshore (St. Tammany Parish) | Eldercare Locator or 211 | Council on Aging St. Tammany (COAST): https://www.coastseniors.org |
| Rest of Louisiana | Use your ZIP code in Eldercare Locator for your AAA and senior centers | Statewide programs via GOEA: https://goea.la.gov |
[/su_table]
Note: The table lists examples, not all centers. For any parish, the Eldercare Locator will show your closest AAA and service providers: https://eldercare.acl.gov
Important Contacts Directory
[su_table responsive=”yes” alternate=”yes” fixed=”no” class=”custom-su-table”]
| Topic | Organization | Website | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| State aging programs | Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs (GOEA) | https://goea.la.gov | Programs, Elderly Protective Services, ombudsman information |
| Find local senior centers | Eldercare Locator (ACL) | https://eldercare.acl.gov | Search by ZIP code |
| 24/7 crisis help | 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988 | Call or text 988 |
| General community help | Louisiana 211 | https://www.la211.org | Food, shelter, transport |
| Medicare help | SHIP (Medicare counseling) | https://www.shiphelp.org | Free, unbiased help |
| Medicaid | Louisiana Medicaid (LDH) | https://ldh.la.gov/medicaid | Eligibility, services |
| Medicaid portal | MyMedicaid | https://mymedicaid.la.gov | Member portal |
| Veterans | LA Dept. of Veterans Affairs | https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov | Benefits, local offices |
| Energy bills | LIHEAP (LHC) | https://www.lhc.la.gov/energy-assistance | Utility assistance |
| Food benefits | DCFS SNAP | https://www.dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/snap | Apply and manage |
| Disaster help | GOHSEP | https://gohsep.la.gov | State emergency info |
| Consumer protection | Louisiana Attorney General | https://www.ag.state.la.us/Consumer | Report scams/fraud |
| Medicare fraud | Senior Medicare Patrol | https://www.smpresource.org | Prevent/report fraud |
[/su_table]
What to Bring: First Visit Checklist
[su_table responsive=”yes” alternate=”yes” fixed=”no” class=”custom-su-table”]
| Document or info | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID) | Verify identity and age for registration |
| Proof of address | Confirms your service area for the center/AAA |
| Emergency contact(s) | For safety and peace of mind |
| Insurance cards (Medicare, Medicaid, VA) | For benefits counseling and referrals |
| Medication list | Helpful for wellness visits and counseling |
| Mobility or dietary needs | Ensures accessible seating and appropriate meals |
[/su_table]
Tip: You won’t be refused a meal for not donating. If forms are hard to fill out, ask staff for help.
Reality Checks, Tips, and Warnings
- Hours and calendars change: Events and meal days can shift with holidays, storms, or funding. Always check the monthly calendar or call ahead.
- Waiting lists: Popular programs (home-delivered meals, transportation, or in-home help) may have waiting lists. Get on the list early and ask about short-term alternatives.
- Donations: Donations are optional for Older Americans Act services, but they help your center serve more people. Give what you can, when you can.
- Transportation limits: In rural areas, rides may only be on certain days or to certain locations. Build a backup plan.
- Beware of scams: Legitimate staff will not pressure you to switch Medicare plans or ask for your full Social Security number in a public space. If something feels wrong, report it to the Louisiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection section: https://www.ag.state.la.us/Consumer and see FTC guidance: https://www.ftc.gov/scams
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What age do I have to be to use a senior center in Louisiana?
A: Most Older Americans Act services are for adults 60 and older. Some centers let younger spouses or caregivers join certain activities—ask your center. See the ACL’s nutrition services overview: https://acl.gov/programs/health-wellness/nutrition-services
Q: Do I have to pay for lunch at the center?
A: No set fee is required for Older Americans Act meals. A voluntary donation is suggested to help the program. If a special event has a cost, staff will tell you in advance. Program background: https://acl.gov/programs/health-wellness/nutrition-services
Q: I can’t drive. How do I get there?
A: Ask your center or AAA about senior transportation. If your town has buses, you may be eligible for ADA paratransit. Learn more: https://www.transit.dot.gov/ada. If you have Medicaid, ask about rides to covered medical visits (Louisiana Medicaid: https://ldh.la.gov/medicaid). You can also dial 211 for local ride options: https://www.la211.org
Q: I’m homebound. Can I still get help?
A: Ask about home-delivered meals and in-home services through your AAA. Many programs prioritize people with the greatest need. Start with Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov
Q: Can someone help me pick a Medicare plan?
A: Yes. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling. Find Louisiana SHIP through the national locator: https://www.shiphelp.org. Medicare’s official site is here: https://www.medicare.gov
Q: Are there centers that are welcoming to LGBTQ+ older adults?
A: Many centers aim to welcome everyone. In New Orleans, NOAGE offers programs and referrals: https://www.noagenola.org. SAGE provides national resources: https://www.sageusa.org
Q: Where do I report elder abuse or neglect?
A: If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. Otherwise, contact Elderly Protective Services via GOEA’s official information: https://goea.la.gov and follow the Elderly Protective Services link for instructions.
Q: Do centers help during hurricanes?
A: Centers often share updates and check on members, but they’re not emergency shelters. For statewide emergency information, visit GOHSEP: https://gohsep.la.gov and preparedness tips at Get A Game Plan: https://www.getagameplan.org. For post-disaster food help, see DSNAP: https://www.dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/dsnap
Q: Can veterans get special help?
A: Yes. Contact the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs for benefits and local assistance: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov or the VA: https://www.va.gov. Ask your center about veterans groups and events.
Q: How do I find the senior center that serves my parish?
A: Use your ZIP code in the Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov, or visit GOEA: https://goea.la.gov for program links. You can also dial 211: https://www.la211.org
Additional Resources (Official and Well-Established)
- Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs (GOEA): statewide aging programs and Elderly Protective Services — https://goea.la.gov
- Eldercare Locator (ACL): find AAAs, senior centers, and services — https://eldercare.acl.gov
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (SAMHSA) — https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988
- Louisiana 211 — https://www.la211.org
- Medicare — https://www.medicare.gov
- SHIP (Medicare counseling) — https://www.shiphelp.org
- Louisiana Medicaid (LDH) — https://ldh.la.gov/medicaid
- MyMedicaid (member portal) — https://mymedicaid.la.gov
- DCFS SNAP (food help) — https://www.dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/snap
- LIHEAP, Louisiana Housing Corporation — https://www.lhc.la.gov/energy-assistance
- GOHSEP (disaster info) — https://gohsep.la.gov
- Get A Game Plan — https://www.getagameplan.org
- FTC Scam Guidance — https://www.ftc.gov/scams
- Louisiana Attorney General, Consumer Protection — https://www.ag.state.la.us/Consumer
- Senior Medicare Patrol — https://www.smpresource.org
- Louisiana Dept. of Veterans Affairs — https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov
- SAGE (LGBTQ+ elders) — https://www.sageusa.org
- NOAGE (New Orleans area) — https://www.noagenola.org
- Title VI Native American Aging Programs — https://olderindians.acl.gov
- CDC Falls Prevention — https://www.cdc.gov/falls
- Feeding Louisiana (food bank network) — https://www.feedinglouisiana.org
- Southeast Louisiana Legal Services — https://slls.org
- Acadiana Legal Service Corporation — https://www.alsc-law.org
- ConnectLA (broadband) — https://connect.la.gov
Disclaimer
This guide is for general information only. Program details, eligibility, schedules, and websites can change. Always confirm information directly with the official agency, your local Area Agency on Aging, or your senior center. This guide does not provide legal, medical, or financial advice.
About This Guide
by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team
The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.
Our Commitment to You:
- Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
- Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
- Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.
While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.
- Last Updated: August 2025
- Sources Verified: August 2025
- Next Review: February 2026
If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.
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Louisiana Senior Centers
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Please call the senior center you are interested in to get up-to-date information.
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Please call the senior center you are interested in to get up-to-date information.
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Choose your state to see senior assistance programs, benefits, and local help options.
About the Authors