Area Agencies on Aging in Louisiana

Complete Guide to Area Agencies on Aging in Louisiana (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:

• Elderly Protective Services Hotline: 833-577-6532 – Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of adults 60+ (in-state)
• Adult Protective Services Hotline: 800-898-4910 – Report abuse of adults 18-59 (24/7)
• After-Hours EPS Hotline: 844-94LAEPS (844-945-2377) – Evening and weekend elderly abuse reporting
• 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 Council on Aging for emergency food programs
• 211 Louisiana – Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency resources
• Louisiana Options in Long-Term Care: 877-456-1146 – Apply for waiver services

Key Takeaways

• Louisiana has multiple Councils on Aging serving all 64 parishes across the state
• Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs (GOEA) oversees the statewide aging network
• All basic services are free or low-cost for seniors 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• Each Council also serves as an Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) – your local resource hub
• No income requirements for basic information and assistance services
• All Councils provide home-delivered meals, transportation, legal help, and Medicare counseling
• Community Choices Waiver provides comprehensive home and community-based services
• Louisiana Options: 877-456-1146 – single point of entry for all OAAS waiver and nursing facility services

What Are Councils on Aging?

In Louisiana, Councils on Aging serve as the local organizations that coordinate and provide essential services for older adults and people with disabilities. These councils function as Area Agencies on Aging under the federal Older Americans Act of 1973 and form the backbone of Louisiana’s aging services network.

Think of your local Council on Aging as your parish’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 Council serves one or more parishes and works with local nonprofits, government agencies, and community organizations to deliver services where you live.

All of Louisiana’s Councils on Aging also function as Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs), meaning you can contact any Council for help with aging, disability, or caregiving questions, regardless of your age or income level. This “one-door” approach makes it easier to find the right resources.

The Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs (GOEA), created in 1956, oversees all Councils on Aging in the state and provides funding through federal, state, and local sources. GOEA serves as Louisiana’s visible advocate and focal point for all matters pertaining to the aging population. Each Council develops plans that identify local needs and outline strategies to address them.

Louisiana’s Major Councils on Aging: Directory

Note: Louisiana has Councils on Aging in all 64 parishes. This is a representative sample of major councils. Contact GOEA at 225-342-7100 for a complete directory or visit their website.

Core Services Provided by Louisiana Councils on Aging

Information and Assistance

Every Council on Aging 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 parish
• 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 Louisiana’s waiver programs through Louisiana Options

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

Nutrition Programs

Louisiana Councils on Aging 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 Louisiana. 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, Councils 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.

Emergency Food Assistance: Many Councils maintain emergency food pantries or coordinate with local food banks to provide immediate assistance during crises.

Transportation Services

Transportation barriers often prevent seniors from accessing healthcare, shopping, and social activities. Louisiana Councils 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 Council-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 parishes, with rural areas often having more limited options.

Volunteer Driver Programs: Many Councils coordinate volunteer driver programs where community volunteers use their own vehicles to transport seniors. These programs are especially important in Louisiana’s rural parishes 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

Councils 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 Louisiana legal aid organizations.

Medicare and Insurance Counseling (SHIIP)

Councils provide State Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) 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, Councils provide case management services to help coordinate multiple services and benefits. Case managers work with you to:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments using the interRAI Home Care tool
• 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

Louisiana Councils 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.

Louisiana Medicaid HCBS Waiver Programs

Louisiana offers several Medicaid waiver programs that help eligible seniors and people with disabilities receive care in their homes and communities instead of nursing facilities. All applications are processed through Louisiana Options in Long-Term Care.

Community Choices Waiver (CCW)

Louisiana’s Community Choices Waiver is the state’s primary home and community-based services program for seniors and adults with physical disabilities.

Services Include:

• Personal care assistance and homemaker services
• Adult day health care programs
• Respite care for family caregivers
• Home modifications and assistive devices
• Personal emergency response systems
• Skilled nursing services (temporary)
• Transportation for medical appointments
• Home-delivered meals
• Companion services
• Community integration support

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be 21 years or older (65+ for elderly services)
• Must be Louisiana Medicaid eligible
• Must need a nursing facility level of care (determined by interRAI Home Care assessment)
• Must choose to receive services at home or in the community
• Financial limits (2025): $2,000 in countable assets for individuals, income under $2,901/month
• Home equity limit: $730,000 in 2025

Adult Day Health Care (ADHC) Waiver

This waiver provides adult day health care services for Louisiana residents who are elderly or disabled and need supervision during the day.

Services Include:

• Structured day programs with health monitoring
• Social activities and therapeutic recreation
• Transportation to and from the facility
• Meals and snacks
• Health monitoring and medication administration
• Personal care assistance

Long-Term Personal Care Services (LT-PCS) Program

LT-PCS is an entitlement program through Louisiana’s Medicaid State Plan that provides personal care services in the home.

Services Include:

• Assistance with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, eating)
• Help with instrumental activities of daily living (cooking, cleaning, shopping)
• Medication reminders
• Light housekeeping
• Meal preparation

Key Advantage: As an entitlement program, there are no waiting lists for LT-PCS services.

Louisiana Options in Long-Term Care

Louisiana Options is the single point of entry for all Office of Aging and Adult Services (OAAS) waiver programs and nursing facility placements.

How to Apply: Call 877-456-1146 to:

• Apply for any OAAS waiver programs
• Request nursing facility placement
• Get information about available services
• Schedule assessments

Special Population Services

Rural Louisiana Seniors

Louisiana’s rural parishes present unique challenges for senior services. Councils 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 weather and distance
• Coordination with parish governments for infrastructure support

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 hurricane season and severe weather

Veteran Seniors

Louisiana has a significant veteran population, and Councils coordinate with the Louisiana 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 New Orleans, Shreveport, and Alexandria
• 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:

• Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs: 225-219-5000
• Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System (New Orleans): 504-507-3000
• Overton Brooks VA Medical Center (Shreveport): 318-221-8411
• Alexandria VA Medical Center: 318-473-0010
• Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)

Culturally Diverse Seniors

Louisiana’s rich cultural diversity includes significant populations of African American, Cajun, Creole, and Latino seniors, each with unique needs and preferences.

Cultural Considerations:

• Bilingual services available in Spanish and French in many parishes
• Culturally appropriate meal programs reflecting Louisiana cuisine
• Understanding of traditional family caregiving roles
• Partnerships with cultural and religious organizations
• Respect for traditional healing practices and beliefs
• Specialized programming for different cultural communities

Hurricane and Disaster Preparedness

Louisiana’s location makes hurricane and disaster preparedness a critical component of aging services.

Emergency Preparedness Services:

• Development of personal emergency plans for seniors
• Special needs shelter coordination
• Emergency evacuation assistance for vulnerable seniors
• Post-disaster recovery services and support
• Coordination with parish emergency management offices
• Backup power and communication systems for critical services

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Louisiana Councils are committed to providing non-discriminatory services to LGBTQ+ seniors.

What to Expect:

• All Council 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
• Forum for Equality Louisiana provides advocacy and resources
• Local PFLAG chapters may offer senior-specific programming

Seniors with Disabilities

All Louisiana Councils 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: Contact Your Local Council on Aging

Contact your parish Council on Aging directly or call the Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs at 225-342-7100 for referral to the appropriate Council. Most Councils operate Monday-Friday during business hours.

Step 2: For OAAS Waiver Services – Call Louisiana Options

For any OAAS waiver services, call Louisiana Options at 877-456-1146. This is the single point of entry for:

• Community Choices Waiver
• Adult Day Health Care Waiver
• Nursing facility placement
• All other OAAS long-term care services

Step 3: Initial Assessment and Screening

Council or Louisiana Options staff will ask basic questions about:

• Your age and parish 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

Step 4: Comprehensive Assessment (If Needed)

For ongoing services like case management or waiver programs, you may need a more detailed assessment using the interRAI Home Care tool. This could happen:

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

The interRAI assessment evaluates your:

• Activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living
• Cognitive abilities and safety concerns
• Social support system and family involvement
• Health conditions and medication management needs
• Environmental safety and home conditions

Step 5: Service Planning and Implementation

Based on your assessment, staff will:

• Explain available services and programs in detail
• Help you complete applications for relevant benefits, including Medicaid and waiver programs
• Develop a comprehensive service plan if needed
• Make referrals to other agencies and providers
• Schedule and coordinate ongoing services
• Provide follow-up to ensure services are working

Step 6: Ongoing Support and Monitoring

Councils 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 program changes and new opportunities

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 and elderly protective services

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 Community Choices Waiver and other HCBS 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 some 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 Louisiana Councils on Aging 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

Councils are monitored by:

• The Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs 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 Council Director – Each Council has established complaint procedures
3. Call the Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs – 225-342-7100 for state-level review
4. Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman – Through your local Council for nursing home and assisted living complaints
5. File an abuse report – 833-577-6532 for elderly protective services or 800-898-4910 for adult protective services

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)

What is the difference between Councils on Aging and Area Agencies on Aging?

In Louisiana, Councils on Aging serve as the Area Agencies on Aging. The terms are used interchangeably, but “Council on Aging” is the traditional Louisiana terminology. These organizations perform all the functions of Area Agencies on Aging as required by the federal Older Americans Act.

How do I apply for Louisiana’s waiver programs?

All applications for Louisiana’s OAAS waiver programs must go through Louisiana Options in Long-Term Care at 877-456-1146. This includes the Community Choices Waiver, Adult Day Health Care Waiver, and nursing facility placement. Louisiana Options serves as the single point of entry for all these services.

What is the interRAI Home Care assessment and why is it important?

The interRAI Home Care assessment is Louisiana’s standardized tool for determining if you need nursing facility level of care for waiver programs. It’s a comprehensive evaluation of your physical abilities, cognitive function, and care needs. Be honest during this assessment – accurately describing your limitations ensures you receive appropriate services.

How do Louisiana’s hurricane seasons affect aging services?

Louisiana Councils have extensive emergency preparedness protocols for hurricane season (June-November). They maintain emergency contact lists, coordinate with parish emergency management, help develop personal emergency plans, and provide post-storm recovery services. Some services may be temporarily suspended during severe weather, but emergency services remain available.

Can I get services if I don’t speak English?

Yes, Louisiana Councils are required to provide interpretation services at no charge. Spanish and French interpretation are commonly available, especially in parishes with significant Hispanic or Cajun/Creole populations. Other languages can be arranged with advance notice.

What makes Louisiana’s aging services unique from other states?

Louisiana’s parish-based system (64 parishes instead of counties), strong cultural diversity, and focus on disaster preparedness make it unique. The state’s Cajun and Creole heritage influences culturally appropriate services, and hurricane preparedness is integrated into all aging services planning.

How do I report elder abuse in Louisiana?

Louisiana has separate hotlines for different age groups: Call 833-577-6532 for abuse of adults 60 and older (Elderly Protective Services), or 800-898-4910 for abuse of adults 18-59 (Adult Protective Services). There’s also an after-hours EPS hotline at 844-94LAEPS. All Louisiana residents are mandatory reporters of elder abuse.

What if I live in a rural Louisiana parish with limited services?

Rural parishes receive priority attention from Louisiana Councils, which use 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, Councils work to ensure rural seniors have access to essential services.

Are there services specific to Louisiana’s cultural communities?

Yes, many Councils offer culturally appropriate programming for Louisiana’s diverse communities, including Cajun, Creole, African American, and Hispanic populations. This includes culturally appropriate meals, bilingual services, partnerships with cultural organizations, and respect for traditional practices.

What assistance is available for veterans in Louisiana?

Louisiana Councils coordinate extensively with VA medical centers in New Orleans, Shreveport, and Alexandria. Services include help applying for VA benefits, transportation to VA appointments, assistance with disability claims, and specialized programs for veteran caregivers. Louisiana also has strong coordination between aging services and veteran services.

---

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 Council 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:

• Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs: 225-342-7100
• Louisiana Options in Long-Term Care: 877-456-1146
• Your local Council on Aging (contact GOEA for directory)
• Elderly Protective Services: 833-577-6532

---

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), Louisiana 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.

---

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