Area Agencies on Aging in Indiana

Complete Guide to Area Agencies on Aging in Indiana (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:

• Indiana Adult Protective Services Hotline: 800-992-6978 – 24/7 hotline to report elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 – Free, confidential support
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 – Mental health crisis support
• Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1) – Specialized support for veterans

For immediate food assistance:

• Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for emergency food programs
• 211 Indiana – Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency resources
• Feeding Indiana’s Hungry: 317-632-3663 – Emergency food assistance

Key Takeaways

• Indiana has 15 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serving all 92 counties across 16 planning and service areas
• Statewide toll-free hotline: 800-713-9023 connects you to your local AAA
• All basic services are free or low-cost for seniors 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• Each AAA also serves as an Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) – your local one-stop resource hub
• No income requirements for basic information and assistance services
• All AAAs provide home-delivered meals, transportation, legal help, and Medicare counseling
• Indiana PathWays for Aging – the state’s new managed care program for seniors 60+ on Medicaid (launched July 2024)
• PathWays Waiver provides comprehensive home and community-based services with 39,842 available slots

What Are Area Agencies on Aging?

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are local organizations that coordinate and provide essential services for older adults and people with disabilities throughout Indiana. Established under the federal Older Americans Act in 1973, these agencies form the backbone of Indiana’s aging services network.

Think of your local AAA as your community’s aging and disability services command center. They don’t just provide direct services – they also plan, coordinate, and fund programs throughout their service area. Each AAA covers multiple counties and works with local nonprofits, government agencies, and community organizations to deliver services where you live.

All of Indiana’s AAAs also function as Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs), meaning you can contact any AAA for help with aging, disability, or caregiving questions, regardless of your age or income level. This “one-door” approach simplifies finding the right resources.

The Indiana Division of Aging, part of the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), oversees all AAAs in the state and provides funding through federal, state, and local sources. Each AAA develops a comprehensive area plan that identifies local needs and outlines strategies to address them.

Indiana’s 15 Area Agencies on Aging: Complete Directory

Note: Contact information may change. Always verify current details by calling the statewide hotline at 800-713-9023.

Core Services Provided by Indiana AAAs

Information and Assistance

Every AAA provides free information and assistance to help you navigate available services and benefits. Trained staff members can help with:

• Understanding available programs and services in your area
• Determining eligibility requirements for different programs
• Completing applications for benefits and services
• Making referrals to other agencies and organizations
• Providing benefits counseling for Medicare, Medicaid, and other programs
• Connecting you to Indiana’s PathWays for Aging program if eligible

This service is available to anyone who contacts the AAA – no eligibility requirements or fees apply.

Nutrition Programs

Indiana AAAs operate comprehensive nutrition programs designed to address food insecurity among older adults while promoting social engagement and healthy eating.

Congregate Meals: Nutritious, hot meals served at senior centers, community centers, churches, and other gathering places throughout Indiana. These programs provide more than just food – they offer opportunities to socialize, participate in activities, and learn about other services. Meals typically have a suggested donation of $3-6 for seniors 60+, but 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, AAAs coordinate home-delivered meal programs. Volunteers deliver hot or frozen meals directly to your home, usually 1-5 days per week depending on need and funding. Priority is given to seniors who are homebound, lack informal support, or are at nutritional risk.

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Some AAAs help distribute monthly food boxes through this USDA program for low-income seniors 60+. The boxes include nutritious foods like canned fruits and vegetables, pasta, rice, and cereal.

Transportation Services

Transportation barriers often prevent seniors from accessing healthcare, shopping, and social activities. Indiana AAAs address this critical need through various programs:

Medical Transportation: Priority service for getting to medical appointments, dialysis, physical therapy, and other health-related trips. Services may include AAA-operated vehicles with trained drivers, partnerships with local transit systems, or voucher programs for taxi services.

General Transportation: Scheduled transportation for shopping, banking, social visits, and other essential activities. Service availability varies between urban and rural areas, with rural communities often having more limited options.

Volunteer Driver Programs: Many AAAs coordinate volunteer driver programs where community volunteers use their own vehicles to transport seniors. These programs are especially important in rural areas where other transportation options are limited.

Important Note: Transportation services often have capacity limits and may require advance booking of 2-7 days. Same-day transportation is typically only available for medical emergencies.

Legal Assistance

AAAs provide free legal help for seniors 60+ in civil (non-criminal) matters that affect their health, safety, and financial security. Common legal issues include:

• Medicare and Medicaid disputes and appeals
• Social Security benefit problems
• Housing issues (landlord-tenant disputes, home maintenance problems)
• Consumer protection (scams, fraud, identity theft)
• Basic estate planning (wills, advance directives, power of attorney)
• Family law matters affecting seniors
• Public benefit applications and appeals

Legal assistance is provided by staff attorneys or volunteer lawyers through partnerships with Indiana Legal Services and other organizations.

Medicare and Insurance Counseling (SHIP)

AAAs provide State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) counseling to help seniors understand Medicare options and resolve insurance problems. Services include:

• Medicare enrollment assistance during open enrollment periods
• Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan comparisons
• Medicare Part D prescription drug plan selection and reviews
• Medicare Advantage plan evaluations
• Appeal assistance for denied claims
• Help understanding Medicare statements and bills
• Assistance with Medicare Extra Help programs

All counseling is completely unbiased – counselors don’t sell insurance and receive no commissions on your decisions.

Case Management and Care Coordination

For seniors with complex needs, AAAs provide case management services to help coordinate multiple services and benefits. Case managers work with you to:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of your needs
• Develop personalized care plans
• Connect you with appropriate services and providers
• Monitor your situation and adjust services over time
• Advocate on your behalf with service providers and agencies
• Help navigate the healthcare and social services systems
• Coordinate with family members and informal caregivers

Family Caregiver Support

Indiana AAAs operate National Family Caregiver Support Programs that provide assistance to family members caring for older adults. Services include:

Information and Education: Training workshops on caregiving techniques, stress management, understanding chronic conditions, and recognizing when to seek professional help.

Counseling and Support Groups: Individual counseling sessions 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 from their caregiving responsibilities. This might include in-home companions, adult day programs, or short-term residential care.

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

Indiana PathWays for Aging and Medicaid Waiver Programs

Indiana launched a major transformation of its aging services in July 2024 with the implementation of PathWays for Aging, affecting over 123,000 eligible Hoosiers aged 60 and older.

Indiana PathWays for Aging

PathWays for Aging is Indiana’s new mandatory managed care program for Hoosiers aged 60 and older who receive Medicaid benefits. The program integrates health care and long-term services and supports to help seniors age in their preferred settings.

Key Features:

• Three health plans: Anthem, Humana, and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan
• Care coordination: Each member gets a dedicated care coordinator
• Dual eligible coordination: For those with both Medicare and Medicaid
• Home and community-based focus: Emphasis on aging in place

Who is Enrolled:

• All Hoosiers 60+ who receive Medicaid benefits
• Those previously on the Aged & Disabled Waiver
• Nursing home residents
• Dual eligible individuals (Medicare and Medicaid)

PathWays for Aging Waiver

The PathWays Waiver provides comprehensive home and community-based services for eligible seniors who need nursing facility level of care but want to remain in their homes or communities.

Services Include:

• Personal care assistance (bathing, dressing, medication management)
• Homemaker services (light housekeeping, meal preparation, laundry)
• Adult day health programs
• Skilled nursing services
• Respite care for family caregivers
• Companion services
• Non-medical transportation
• Home modifications and accessibility adaptations
• Specialized medical equipment and supplies
• Personal emergency response systems
• Transition services from nursing homes

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be 60 years or older
• Must be Indiana Medicaid eligible
• Must need a nursing facility level of care
• Must choose to receive services at home or in the community
• Financial limits (2025): Income up to $1,305/month for individuals, $1,763/month for couples

Waiver Slots: 39,842 total slots available, with approximately 29,268 filled by existing recipients and 10,574 available for newly eligible individuals.

Health and Wellness Waiver

For individuals under 60 with disabilities, Indiana operates the Health and Wellness Waiver (formerly part of the Aged & Disabled Waiver).

Key Features:

• Serves individuals 59 and younger with disabilities
• 16,127 total slots available
• Includes Structured Family Caregiving option
• Similar services to PathWays Waiver but for younger population

Special Population Services

Rural Hoosiers

Indiana’s rural areas present unique challenges for senior services. AAAs have adapted their services to meet rural needs through innovative approaches:

Rural-Specific Adaptations:

• Mobile service delivery bringing services directly to remote communities
• Extended volunteer driver programs for long-distance medical trips
• Telecommunication services including phone check-ins and virtual support groups
• Partnerships with faith-based organizations and community groups
• Flexible service delivery schedules to accommodate agricultural seasons
• Coordination with Purdue Extension offices for programming

Challenges to Expect in Rural Areas:

• Longer wait times for services due to distance and limited providers
• Less frequent transportation options requiring advance planning
• Fewer dining sites for congregate meals, more reliance on home-delivered meals
• Limited internet access affecting access to online services and telehealth
• Provider shortages for specialized in-home services
• Weather-related service disruptions during winter months

Veteran Seniors

Indiana has a significant veteran population, and AAAs coordinate with the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs and VA Medical Centers to ensure veterans receive all earned benefits.

Veteran-Specific Services:

• Help applying for VA benefits and healthcare enrollment
• Transportation coordination to VA medical appointments in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and Marion
• Assistance with VA pension and disability claim applications
• Connection to VA home and community-based services
• Honor guard and burial assistance coordination
• Support for family caregivers of veterans

Key Resources:

• Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs: 317-232-3910
• Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center (Indianapolis): 317-554-0000
• Fort Wayne VA Medical Center: 260-426-5431
• County Veterans Service Officers available statewide
• Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)

Urban Seniors

Indiana’s urban areas, particularly Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and Evansville, offer specialized services and programs not available in rural areas.

Urban-Specific Services:

• More frequent public transportation options
• Specialized programs for diverse populations
• Adult day programs and senior centers with extended hours
• Technology assistance and digital literacy programs
• Partnerships with universities and medical centers
• Cultural and recreational programming

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Indiana AAAs are committed to providing non-discriminatory services to LGBTQ+ seniors, with some areas offering specialized support.

What to Expect:

• All AAA staff receive training on serving diverse populations
• Services cannot be denied based on sexual orientation or gender identity
• Complaint processes available if discrimination occurs
• Partnerships with supportive organizations where available
• Confidential services respecting privacy concerns

Resources:

• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: 1-877-360-5428
• Local PFLAG chapters may offer senior-specific programming
• Indiana Equality Action provides advocacy and resources

Seniors with Disabilities

All Indiana 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 and safety
• Transportation with wheelchair accessibility when available
• Independent living skills training and support
• Benefits counseling for disability programs (SSDI, SSI)
• Advocacy for disability rights and reasonable accommodations

How to Access Services

Step 1: Call the Statewide Hotline

Dial 800-713-9023 from anywhere in Indiana. This toll-free number connects you to the appropriate AAA based on your county of residence. The line operates Monday-Friday during business hours and provides after-hours emergency referrals.

Step 2: Initial Phone Screening

AAA staff will ask basic questions about:

• Your age and county of residence
• What type of assistance you’re seeking
• Your current living situation and safety concerns
• Whether you have urgent or immediate needs
• Basic information about your support system
• General financial information for certain programs

This initial conversation typically takes 10-20 minutes and helps staff understand how to best assist you.

Step 3: Comprehensive Assessment (If Needed)

For ongoing services like case management or waiver programs, you may need a more detailed assessment. This could happen:

• Over the phone for straightforward services
• In person at the AAA office
• In your home for complex situations or mobility issues
• Via video call where technology permits

Assessments evaluate your:

• Physical and cognitive abilities
• Safety concerns and environmental hazards
• Social support system and family involvement
• Financial resources and insurance coverage
• Service preferences and cultural considerations

Step 4: Service Planning and Implementation

Based on your assessment, AAA staff will:

• Explain available services and programs in detail
• Help you complete applications for relevant benefits
• Assist with PathWays for Aging enrollment if eligible
• Develop a comprehensive service plan if needed
• Make referrals to other agencies and providers
• Schedule and coordinate ongoing services

Step 5: Ongoing Support and Monitoring

AAAs provide continued support through:

• Regular check-ins with case managers
• Annual reassessments for waiver programs
• Help accessing new services as needs change
• Advocacy when problems arise with service providers
• Updates on PathWays for Aging and other program changes

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 and brief services
• Case management services
• Family caregiver support and education
• Adult protective services investigations

Suggested Donation 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)
• Some respite care services

Income-Based Services

Some services use sliding fee scales based on your income and ability to pay:

• Extended in-home care services
• Adult day programs
• Long-term respite care
• Home modifications beyond basic safety

Insurance and Medicaid Coverage

Many services can be covered by:

• Medicaid (including PathWays for Aging and Health & Wellness Waivers)
• Medicare (for medically necessary services)
• Private insurance and Medicare supplements
• Veterans benefits through VA programs
• Other state and federal assistance programs

Financial Reality: Even free services have limited funding, which means:

• You may be placed on waiting lists for popular services
• Services may be reduced during state budget cuts
• You might receive less service than you’d prefer
• Donations and volunteer support help programs serve more people

Quality and Accountability

Program Standards and Oversight

All Indiana AAAs must meet federal and state standards for:

• Staff qualifications and ongoing training requirements
• Service quality and safety protocols
• Financial management and accountability
• Non-discrimination policies and practices
• Confidentiality protections and privacy rights

Monitoring and Evaluation

AAAs are monitored by:

• The Indiana Division of Aging through regular reviews
• Federal Administration for Community Living oversight
• Independent financial auditors
• Consumer advisory councils with community representation
• Local governing boards and elected officials

Complaint Process and Your Rights

If you have concerns about services:

1. Talk to your service provider first – Many issues can be resolved quickly at the direct service level
2. Contact the AAA Program Director – Each AAA has established complaint procedures
3. Call the Indiana Division of Aging – 888-673-0002 for state-level review
4. Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman – 800-622-4484 for nursing home and assisted living complaints

Your Rights as a Service Recipient

You have the right to:

• Be treated with dignity, respect, and cultural sensitivity
• Receive services without discrimination based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability
• Have your personal and medical information kept confidential
• Participate actively in decisions about your care and services
• File complaints without fear of retaliation or service termination
• Receive services that meet established professional standards
• Appeal decisions about your eligibility or service levels

Resources by Region

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know if I’m affected by the PathWays for Aging changes?

If you’re 60 or older and receive Medicaid benefits in Indiana, you were automatically enrolled in PathWays for Aging on July 1, 2024. This includes those previously on the Aged & Disabled Waiver, nursing home residents, and dual eligible individuals. You should have received enrollment materials and been assigned to one of three health plans: Anthem, Humana, or UnitedHealthcare Community Plan.

What if I was receiving Aged & Disabled Waiver services before July 2024?

If you were 60 or older, your services transitioned to the PathWays for Aging Waiver. For the first 90 days, no changes were made to your service plan to ensure continuity. If you were under 60, you transitioned to the Health and Wellness Waiver. Your AAA case manager helped coordinate this transition.

Can I change my PathWays health plan if I’m not satisfied?

Yes, you can change your health plan during the annual open enrollment period or if you have a qualifying life event. You can also request a change for cause, such as poor access to providers or quality of care issues. Contact Maximus, the enrollment broker, at 877-284-9294 to discuss changing plans.

Do I need to meet income requirements to get help from an AAA?

Not for basic services. Information and assistance, Medicare counseling, and legal consultations are available to anyone regardless of income. Some ongoing services like meals and transportation have suggested donations but you cannot be denied for inability to pay. Only certain programs like Medicaid waivers have strict income limits.

How long are the waiting lists for Indiana’s waiver programs?

Waiting times vary by region and waiver type. The PathWays for Aging Waiver currently has about 5,680 people on the waiting list as of January 2025, with approximately 3,001 invitations sent monthly. The Health and Wellness Waiver has shorter wait times. Certain populations get priority including those being discharged from hospitals or nursing homes.

What happens to my services if I move between counties in Indiana?

Services don’t automatically transfer when you move to a different AAA service area. You’ll need to contact the AAA in your new county to reestablish services. However, your assessment information and service history can usually be shared between AAAs to speed up the process. If you’re on PathWays for Aging, your health plan coverage continues statewide.

Are there services available in languages other than English?

Yes, all AAAs are required to provide interpretation services for non-English speakers at no charge. Spanish interpretation is most commonly available, but other languages can be arranged with advance notice. Some AAAs also have bilingual staff members, particularly in areas with significant Hispanic populations.

How does Indiana’s university partnership benefit seniors?

Indiana AAAs partner with universities like Purdue, Indiana University, and Ball State to provide enhanced services. These partnerships offer student volunteers for friendly visiting and transportation, research on aging issues, intergenerational programs, technology assistance, and access to university resources like fitness facilities and continuing education.

What if I live in a small rural town with limited services?

AAAs prioritize serving rural areas through mobile services, volunteer driver programs, and partnerships with local organizations like churches and community groups. While services may be less frequent than in urban areas, AAAs work to ensure rural seniors have access to essential services. Your AAA can help identify local resources and coordinate services.

Can family members be paid caregivers under Indiana programs?

Yes, through the Structured Family Caregiving option under both the PathWays for Aging Waiver and Health and Wellness Waiver, family members can be hired as paid caregivers. This includes adult children, siblings, and other relatives (spouses typically cannot be hired). The program includes training, support, and different tiers of payment based on care needs.

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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 August 2025, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with the relevant Area Agency on Aging before making decisions or applying for services.

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional legal, medical, or financial advice. Always consult with qualified professionals for advice specific to your situation.

For the most current information, contact:

• Statewide AAA Hotline: 800-713-9023
• Indiana Division of Aging: 888-673-0002
• PathWays for Aging Helpline: 877-284-9294
• Your local Area Agency on Aging (see directory above)

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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, USDA, SSA, CMS), Indiana 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 service details.

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