Area Agencies on Aging in Alaska

Complete Guide to Aging and Disability Resource Centers in Alaska (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

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:

• Alaska Statewide ADRC Hotline: 1-855-565-2017 – Connect with your regional center
• Alaska Adult Protective Services: 1-800-478-9996 – Report elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• Alaska Crisis Line: 1-877-266-4357 (1-877-CONHELP) – 24/7 mental health crisis support
• Careline Alaska: 1-877-266-4357 – Crisis intervention and suicide prevention

For immediate food assistance:

• Food Bank of Alaska SNAP Hotline: Text SNAP to 907-891-8913
• Alaska 2-1-1: Dial 2-1-1 – Connect with local emergency food resources
• Rural villages: Contact your village corporation or tribal organization

Key Takeaways

• Alaska operates Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) instead of traditional Area Agencies on Aging
• Call 1-855-565-2017 to reach the statewide ADRC network or contact your nearest regional center
• Services are available statewide including remote villages and off-road communities
• No income requirements for information, assistance, and basic services
• Alaska has unique programs for rural residents including SNAP subsistence benefits for hunting/fishing supplies
• Five Medicaid waiver programs provide comprehensive home and community-based services
• Special considerations for Alaska Natives through tribal organizations and village corporations
• Transportation challenges are addressed through creative rural service delivery models

What Are Aging and Disability Resource Centers?

Alaska takes a unique approach to aging services through its statewide network of Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs). Unlike most states that operate Area Agencies on Aging, Alaska’s system is designed specifically for the state’s vast geography, extreme weather conditions, and diverse population including significant Alaska Native communities.

ADRCs serve as one-stop resource centers where seniors, people with disabilities, and their caregivers can get complete information about long-term services and supports. The goal is to help people live as independently as possible in the community and setting of their choice.

Alaska’s ADRC network is overseen by the Division of Senior and Disabilities Services within the Alaska Department of Health. The system recognizes that Alaska’s unique challenges – including over 200 rural villages with no road access, extreme weather, and a cost of living significantly higher than the lower 48 states – require specialized solutions.

Each ADRC is staffed with specialists who understand both state and federal programs, as well as local resources specific to their region. They provide pre-screening services that can happen in person, at your home, over the phone, or by video call – recognizing that travel in Alaska can be extremely difficult and expensive.

Alaska’s Regional ADRC Network

Note: Additional ADRC offices and satellite locations serve other regions. Contact 1-855-565-2017 for connections to services in your area.

Core Services Provided by Alaska ADRCs

Information and Assistance Services

Every ADRC provides comprehensive information and assistance to help Alaskans understand their options and navigate available services. Staff understand the unique challenges of living in Alaska and can provide guidance on:

• Available programs and services throughout Alaska
• Eligibility requirements for state and federal programs
• How to apply for benefits when you live in a remote location
• Referrals to other agencies, including tribal organizations
• Benefits counseling for Medicare, Medicaid, and Alaska-specific programs
• Special programs for rural and subsistence communities

This service is completely free and available to anyone who contacts an ADRC, regardless of age, income, or location in Alaska.

Options Counseling and Service Coordination

ADRC specialists provide personalized counseling to help you explore all available options for your situation. This includes:

Comprehensive Assessment: Evaluation of your current situation, needs, and preferences, which can be conducted remotely if necessary.

Service Planning: Development of a personalized plan that takes into account Alaska’s unique geography and service limitations.

Coordination with Multiple Systems: Help navigating federal programs, state services, tribal organizations, and village corporations.

Ongoing Support: Regular check-ins and plan adjustments as your needs change or new services become available.

Home and Community-Based Services Coordination

ADRCs help connect people with services that allow them to remain in their homes and communities, including:

In-Home Care Services: Personal care assistance, homemaker services, and skilled nursing visits – adapted for Alaska’s remote locations.

Adult Day Programs: Available in larger communities, with transportation coordination when possible.

Home Modifications: Environmental modifications to improve safety and accessibility, with special considerations for Alaska housing challenges.

Assistive Technology: Vision and hearing aids, mobility devices, and communication equipment – with attention to durability needed for Alaska conditions.

Benefits and Insurance Counseling

Alaska ADRC staff provide specialized counseling on:

Medicare Navigation: Understanding Medicare options, supplements, and prescription drug coverage, including how Medicare works in Alaska’s unique healthcare system.

Medicaid Eligibility: Guidance on Alaska’s Medicaid program (DenaliCare) and special waiver programs.

Alaska-Specific Programs: Information about state programs like Senior Benefits and Chronic Care Management.

Insurance Problem Resolution: Help with claim denials, billing issues, and appeals processes.

Transportation and Access Services

Transportation is one of the biggest challenges for Alaska seniors, especially in rural areas. ADRCs address this through:

Medicaid Transportation: Coordination of covered transportation to medical appointments, including air travel for specialized care.

Local Transportation Resources: Connecting people with available transportation options in their communities.

Remote Service Delivery: When transportation isn’t possible, ADRCs help arrange services that can be delivered to your location.

Emergency Transportation Planning: Assistance with planning for medical emergencies when you live in remote areas.

Alaska’s Medicaid Waiver Programs

Alaska operates five comprehensive Medicaid waiver programs that provide alternatives to nursing home care. These programs are designed with Alaska’s unique challenges in mind.

Alaskans Living Independently (ALI) Waiver

The ALI Waiver serves seniors 65+ and adults with physical disabilities who need nursing facility-level care but want to remain in their communities.

Services Include:

• Adult day services in participating communities
• Care coordination with Alaska-certified case managers
• Home-delivered meals adapted for rural delivery
• Respite care for family caregivers
• Adult host home care (Alaska’s version of family care homes)
• Environmental modifications suitable for Alaska climate and housing
• Specialized medical equipment and supplies
• Transportation services, including coordination of air travel when needed

Alaska-Specific Features:

• Services can be delivered to extremely remote locations
• Care coordinators understand subsistence lifestyles and cultural preferences
• Flexible service delivery adapted to seasonal access limitations

Eligibility Requirements (2025):

• Age 65+ or younger with qualifying disabilities
• Alaska resident
• Income under $2,250/month for individuals
• Assets under $2,000 (excluding home and vehicle)
• Need nursing facility level of care
• Choose to receive services at home or in community

Adults with Physical and Developmental Disabilities (APDD) Waiver

This waiver serves adults 21+ with developmental disabilities, autism, or intellectual disabilities that result in physical impairments.

Services Include:

• Adult day services and day habilitation
• Residential supported living services
• Employment services adapted for Alaska’s economy
• Specialized medical equipment designed for Alaska conditions
• Transportation coordination throughout the state
• Environmental modifications for accessibility and safety

Children with Complex Medical Conditions Waiver

Serves children up to age 21 with complex medical needs who would otherwise require hospital or nursing facility care.

Unique Alaska Considerations:

• Services delivered to families living in remote villages
• Coordination with Alaska Native health organizations
• Specialized equipment suitable for extreme weather conditions
• Emergency planning for children with complex needs in isolated areas

Individualized Supports Waiver

Provides community-based services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who need intensive support.

Home and Community-Based Services for Individuals with Autism

Specifically designed for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, providing specialized supports and services.

Important Note: All waiver programs have waiting lists, and approval can take 6-18 months or longer. However, you can apply at any time, and emergency situations may receive expedited review.

Special Population Services

Alaska Native Seniors

Alaska Native seniors make up a significant portion of Alaska’s senior population and have access to specialized services through multiple systems.

Tribal Health Organizations: Over 170 federally recognized tribes in Alaska provide health and social services through regional tribal health organizations like:

• Arctic Slope Regional Corporation Health Services
• Chugachmiut (Southcentral Alaska)
• Southeast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC)
• Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC)

Village Corporation Services: Many Alaska Native village corporations provide services to their shareholders including:

• Elder assistance programs
• Subsistence support
• Cultural programming
• Transportation assistance
• Emergency support

Cultural Considerations:

• Services are provided with respect for traditional values and subsistence lifestyles
• Native language interpretation available through tribal organizations
• Coordination with traditional healing practices when appropriate
• Understanding of extended family and community support systems

Key Resources:

• Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium: 907-729-1900
• Bristol Bay Native Association: 1-800-478-4139
• Kawerak (Bering Straits region): 907-443-5231
• Contact your local village corporation or tribal organization

Veteran Seniors

Alaska has one of the highest per-capita veteran populations in the United States, with many veterans choosing to retire in Alaska.

Veteran-Specific Services:

• VA Medical Centers in Anchorage with community clinics throughout the state
• Veteran Service Officers available in most communities
• Help accessing VA benefits and healthcare
• Transportation to VA medical appointments, including air travel coordination
• Veteran-Directed Care programs through some ADRCs
• Cold weather injury and PTSD services adapted for Alaska conditions

Challenges and Solutions:

• Remote location access addressed through telehealth and mobile clinics
• Seasonal access limitations accommodated with advance planning
• Coordination between VA services and Alaska Native health services for Native veterans

Key Resources:

• Alaska Department of Veterans Affairs: 907-479-8387
• VA Alaska Healthcare System: 1-888-353-7574
• Veterans Crisis Line: 988 (Press 1)

Disabled Seniors

ADRCs serve people with disabilities of all ages, with special expertise in age-related disabilities and the intersection of aging and disability.

Disability-Specific Services:

• Independent living skills training adapted for Alaska conditions
• Assistive technology training with equipment suitable for extreme weather
• Home modifications for accessibility and safety in Alaska housing
• Benefits counseling for disability programs
• Advocacy for disability rights and accessible services
• Coordination with Alaska’s independent living centers

Alaska-Specific Considerations:

• Equipment durability requirements for extreme temperatures
• Backup power and heating considerations for assistive technology
• Emergency planning for people with disabilities in remote areas
• Transportation challenges and creative solutions

LGBTQ+ Seniors

While Alaska’s LGBTQ+ senior services are still developing, ADRCs work to ensure all services are welcoming and inclusive.

Available Support:

• Non-discrimination policies in all ADRC services
• Staff training on LGBTQ+ cultural competency
• Referrals to LGBTQ+-friendly providers when available
• Coordination with statewide LGBTQ+ organizations

Resources:

• Identity Inc. (Anchorage): 907-929-4528
• Southeast Alaska Pride (Juneau area)
• PFLAG Alaska chapters for family support

Rural Seniors and Families

Rural Alaska presents unique challenges with over 200 communities accessible only by air, boat, or snow machine.

Rural-Specific Services:

• Mobile service delivery via plane, boat, or snow machine
• Satellite communication for remote consultations
• Bulk purchasing and delivery programs
• Seasonal service delivery coordinated with weather and transportation
• Village-based volunteer programs
• Emergency planning and response coordination

Reality Check for Rural Services:

• Services may be seasonal due to weather and transportation limitations
• Emergency services may require air evacuation to larger communities
• Internet and phone service can be unreliable
• Costs for goods and services are significantly higher than urban areas
• Some services may only be available during certain months

Unique Alaska Programs

SNAP Subsistence Program

Alaska is the only state with a SNAP subsistence program that allows eligible rural residents to use food assistance benefits to purchase hunting and fishing equipment.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must qualify for regular SNAP benefits
• Live in an area with limited access to retail food stores
• Rely substantially on hunting and fishing for food
• Most of rural Alaska qualifies (specific excluded areas are listed by the state)

Approved Purchases:

• Fishing nets, lines, hooks, and rods
• Hunting knives designed for field dressing
• Ammunition for hunting (but not firearms)
• Fishing tackle and gear
• Boat fuel for subsistence activities

Senior Benefits Program

Alaska provides monthly cash benefits to low-income seniors 65+ through the Senior Benefits Program.

2025 Benefit Amounts:

• $125/month for individuals with income under $23,640
• $95/month for individuals with income $23,640-$29,550
• Benefits may be reduced based on other income

Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP)

While primarily for families with children, ATAP also serves some elderly and disabled Alaskans with cash assistance and supportive services.

How to Access Services

Step 1: Contact the Statewide ADRC Line

Call 1-855-565-2017 to reach Alaska’s statewide ADRC network. Staff will connect you with the appropriate regional ADRC based on your location and needs.

Step 2: Initial Pre-Screening

ADRC specialists will conduct a pre-screening that can happen:

• Over the phone (most common for remote areas)
• By video call (when internet is available)
• In person at an ADRC office
• In your home (in some locations and situations)

The pre-screening covers:

• Your current living situation and location
• Immediate needs and concerns
• Current services you’re receiving
• Family and community support
• Financial situation (for some programs)
• Cultural preferences and considerations

Step 3: Comprehensive Assessment (If Needed)

For ongoing services or waiver programs, you may need a more detailed assessment conducted by qualified assessors who understand Alaska’s unique circumstances.

Step 4: Service Planning and Coordination

ADRC staff will:

• Explain all available options
• Help you apply for relevant programs
• Coordinate services from multiple agencies
• Develop contingency plans for emergencies
• Connect you with cultural and community resources

Step 5: Ongoing Support and Monitoring

• Regular check-ins adapted to your communication preferences
• Annual reassessments for waiver programs
• Emergency response coordination
• Advocacy when problems arise
• Updates about new services and programs

Costs and Financial Considerations

Free Services

These services are available at no cost:

• Information and assistance from ADRCs
• Benefits counseling and application assistance
• Care coordination and planning
• Referrals to other agencies and resources

Low-Cost Services with Sliding Scales

Many services use income-based sliding fee scales:

• Adult day programs (where available)
• Transportation services
• Home-delivered meals
• Respite care

High-Cost Reality in Alaska

Important Financial Considerations:

• The cost of living in Alaska is 25-50% higher than the lower 48 states
• Rural areas can cost 100-200% more than urban Alaska
• Transportation costs are extremely high, especially for rural areas
• Heating and utility costs are substantial year-round
• Fresh food costs can be 3-4 times national averages in remote areas

Insurance and Coverage Options

DenaliCare (Alaska Medicaid):

• Covers most waiver program services
• Higher income limits than many states
• Special provisions for Alaska Natives

Medicare in Alaska:

• Standard Medicare benefits apply
• Limited provider networks in rural areas
• Higher costs for equipment and services
• Telehealth provisions expanded for rural access

Resources by Region

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do services work if I live in a village with no road access?

ADRCs have developed creative solutions for remote service delivery including phone and video consultations, seasonal visits by plane or boat, coordination with local village health aides, and partnerships with Alaska Native organizations. Emergency services can be arranged through air taxi or Coast Guard when necessary. Some services like home-delivered meals may be delivered in bulk seasonally.

Can I get services if I only live in Alaska part of the year?

You must be an Alaska resident to receive most state-funded services, but the definition of residency can be flexible for people who spend summers in Alaska. Medicare and some federal programs may be available regardless of residency status. Contact an ADRC to discuss your specific situation, as some seasonal residents may qualify for certain services.

What happens during the winter when planes can’t fly to my village?

ADRCs work with communities to plan for seasonal isolation periods. This may include stockpiling medical supplies, arranging for bulk deliveries before winter, setting up emergency communication protocols, and training local volunteers to provide basic assistance. Emergency medical evacuation can sometimes be arranged even in severe weather, but prevention and preparation are key.

Do I need to choose between Alaska Native health services and state programs?

No, you don’t have to choose. Many Alaska Natives receive services from both tribal health organizations and state programs. ADRCs can help coordinate these services to avoid duplication and maximize benefits. Tribal health services often complement rather than replace state and federal programs.

How does subsistence hunting and fishing affect my benefits?

Alaska recognizes subsistence activities as a legitimate food source. The SNAP subsistence program actually helps by allowing food assistance to purchase hunting and fishing equipment. Medicaid and other programs don’t count subsistence foods as income. ADRCs understand subsistence lifestyles and work with them rather than against them.

What if my English isn’t very good?

Alaska ADRCs provide interpretation services in many Alaska Native languages as well as other languages spoken in Alaska communities. Services are provided at no charge to you. Tribal health organizations also provide culturally appropriate services in Native languages. Don’t let language barriers prevent you from accessing services.

How expensive is it to get medical care if I live in rural Alaska?

Medicaid transportation benefits help cover the cost of medical travel, including airfare to larger communities for specialized care. Alaska Native health organizations provide many services in villages through community health aides and traveling medical teams. Emergency medical evacuation is expensive but may be covered by insurance or tribal organizations.

Can I keep living in my cabin or traditional home and still get services?

ADRCs work with people wherever they live, including traditional homes, cabins, and unconventional housing. Home modifications can often be made to improve safety and accessibility. The goal is always to help people remain in their chosen living situation if it’s safe and feasible.

What happens if there’s an emergency and I can’t reach anyone?

Emergency planning is a crucial part of service coordination in Alaska. This includes establishing communication protocols, identifying emergency contacts, arranging for emergency supplies, and coordinating with local emergency services. Many rural communities have volunteer emergency response teams, and ADRCs help connect people with these resources.

Do services continue if I have to move to Anchorage or another city for medical treatment?

ADRCs can help coordinate temporary services in other Alaska communities during medical treatment. They work with hospitals and medical facilities to arrange discharge planning that considers your home community’s limitations. Services can often be re-established when you return home.

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Disclaimer

Program details, contact information, and services can change without advance notice, particularly in Alaska where weather, transportation, and other factors can affect service delivery. While this guide uses the most current available information as of August 2025, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with the relevant ADRC or service provider before making decisions or applying for services.

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional legal, medical, or financial advice. Alaska’s unique geography and climate create special considerations that may not be covered in this general guide. Always consult with qualified professionals familiar with Alaska conditions for advice specific to your situation.

For the most current information, contact:

• Alaska Statewide ADRC: 1-855-565-2017
• Alaska Division of Senior and Disabilities Services: 907-269-3666
• Your regional ADRC or tribal organization

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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 programs, with special attention to Alaska’s unique circumstances.

Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (HHS, USDA, SSA, CMS), Alaska state government departments, Alaska Native organization websites, official program documentation, and verified nonprofit organization resources serving Alaska.

Verification Process: Each program listing undergoes thorough online verification by cross-referencing information across multiple official sources, checking current program status in Alaska, verifying contact information for remote locations, and confirming eligibility requirements and service delivery methods for Alaska’s unique geography.

Information Currency: • Last Updated: August 2025 • Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026

Important Note: Government programs can change without advance notice, and Alaska’s remote locations and weather conditions can affect service availability. While this guide uses the most current available information, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with program administrators before applying or traveling for services.

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

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Alaska’s unique geography, climate, and cultural considerations require specialized guidance. Always confirm program details with official sources before applying.

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This resource is independently researched to help Alaskan seniors access available assistance programs adapted for Alaska’s unique challenges.