Area Agencies on Aging in Maine

Complete Guide to Area Agencies on Aging in Maine (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:

• Maine Aging & Disability Resource Centers: 1-877-353-3771 – Statewide hotline connecting you to local services
• Maine Adult Protective Services: 1-800-624-8404 – 24/7 hotline to report elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 – Free, confidential crisis support
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 – Mental health emergency assistance

For immediate assistance:

• Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for emergency support programs
• 211 Maine – Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency resources and crisis support

Key Takeaways

• Maine has 5 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serving all 16 counties across the state
• All services are free or low-cost for adults 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• Call 1-877-353-3771 to connect with your local AAA – this number works statewide
• Each AAA operates as an Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) – your gateway to help
• No income requirements for information and assistance services
• Every AAA provides home-delivered meals, transportation assistance, Medicare counseling, and caregiver support
• Maine MaineCare waiver programs help you receive care at home instead of in nursing facilities

What Are Area Agencies on Aging?

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are regional organizations that coordinate and deliver essential services for older adults and people with disabilities. Established under the federal Older Americans Act of 1965, these agencies form the foundation of Maine’s aging services network.

Your local AAA functions as a resource hub for senior services. They don’t only provide direct services – they also plan, coordinate, and fund programs throughout their service area. Each of Maine’s 5 AAAs covers multiple counties and collaborates with local nonprofits, government agencies, and community organizations to bring services directly to where you live.

In Maine, all 5 AAAs also function as Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs), making them single points of entry for aging, disability, and caregiving assistance. This means you can contact any AAA for help with aging, disability, or caregiving questions, regardless of your age or income.

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Aging and Disability Services oversees all AAAs in the state and provides funding through federal, state, and local sources. Each AAA develops comprehensive area plans that identify local needs and outline strategies to address them.

Maine’s 5 Area Agencies on Aging: Complete Directory

Note: Leadership and contact information may change. Always verify current details by calling 1-877-353-3771.

Core Services Provided by Maine AAAs

Information and Assistance

Every AAA provides free information and assistance to help you understand your options and connect with appropriate resources. Trained staff members are available to answer questions about:

• Available programs and services in your region
• Eligibility requirements for different programs
• How to apply for benefits and services
• Referrals to other agencies and organizations
• Benefits counseling for Medicare, MaineCare, and other programs

You don’t need to qualify for anything to receive information and assistance – this service is available to anyone who contacts the agency.

Nutrition Programs

Maine AAAs operate comprehensive nutrition programs designed to combat food insecurity among older adults while promoting social connections.

Congregate Dining: Nutritious meals served at senior centers, community centers, churches, and other gathering locations. These programs provide more than just food – they offer opportunities to socialize, participate in activities, and receive information about other services. Meals typically have a suggested donation of $3-6 for seniors 60+, though no one is turned away for inability to pay.

Home-Delivered Meals (Meals on Wheels): For seniors who have difficulty shopping for groceries or preparing meals, Maine AAAs coordinate home-delivered meal programs. Volunteers deliver hot or frozen meals directly to your home, usually 1-5 days per week. Priority is given to seniors who are homebound, have limited informal support, or are at nutritional risk.

Emergency Food Programs: Some AAAs provide emergency food boxes or pantry services for seniors facing acute food insecurity.

Transportation Services

Transportation is often the biggest challenge preventing seniors from accessing healthcare, shopping, and social activities. AAAs address this barrier through various programs:

Medical Transportation: Priority service for getting to medical appointments, dialysis, physical therapy, and other health-related trips. Some programs operate their own vehicles with trained drivers, while others provide vouchers for taxi services or coordinate volunteer driver programs.

General Transportation: Scheduled transportation for shopping, banking, visiting family, and other essential activities. Service availability varies significantly by location, with more populated areas typically offering more frequent service than rural communities.

Volunteer Driver Programs: Many AAAs coordinate volunteer driver programs where trained community volunteers provide transportation using their own vehicles.

Reality Check: Transportation services often have waiting lists, especially in rural Maine. You may need to book rides 3-7 days in advance, and same-day transportation is rarely available except for true emergencies.

Legal Assistance

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

• Medicare and MaineCare problems
• Social Security benefit issues
• Housing problems (landlord-tenant disputes, home repairs)
• Consumer protection (scams, fraud, identity theft)
• Estate planning basics (wills, advance directives)
• Family law matters affecting seniors
• Public benefit applications and appeals

Legal assistance is provided by staff attorneys or volunteer lawyers. Services may include advice, brief consultations, document preparation, and representation in some cases.

Medicare and Insurance Counseling

Trained counselors help seniors understand Medicare options, compare health insurance plans, and resolve billing problems. Services include:

• Medicare enrollment assistance
• Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan comparisons
• Medicare Part D prescription drug plan selection
• Medicare Advantage plan reviews
• Appeal assistance for denied claims
• Help understanding Medicare statements and bills

This counseling is completely unbiased – counselors don’t sell insurance and have no financial interest in 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:

• Assess your needs and develop a care plan
• Connect you with appropriate services
• Monitor your situation over time
• Advocate on your behalf with service providers
• Help you navigate the healthcare system
• Coordinate with family members and informal caregivers

Family Caregiver Support

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

Information and Education: Training on caregiving techniques, managing stress, understanding chronic conditions, and knowing when to seek help.

Counseling and Support Groups: Individual counseling 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. 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, or emergency response systems.

MaineCare Waiver Programs Through AAAs

Maine offers several MaineCare (Medicaid) waiver programs that help eligible seniors and people with disabilities receive care in their homes instead of nursing facilities. AAAs often serve as entry points for these programs.

Section 29 Waiver

The Section 29 Waiver is Maine’s primary home and community-based services program. It provides comprehensive services for people who would otherwise need nursing home care.

Services Include:

• Personal care assistance with bathing, dressing, medication management
• Homemaker services (light housekeeping, meal preparation, laundry)
• Home-delivered meals
• Adult day health programs
• Respite care for family caregivers
• Companion services
• Transportation to medical appointments
• Home modifications and assistive devices
• Personal emergency response systems

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be MaineCare eligible
• Must need a level of care typically provided in a nursing facility
• Must choose to receive services at home instead of in a nursing facility
• Financial limits: $2,000 in countable assets, income under specific monthly limits (2025)

Reality Check: The Section 29 Waiver has a waiting list in most parts of Maine. Once you apply, it may take 6-18 months or longer to receive services. However, you can apply anytime and your application will be processed in order received.

Consumer Directed Attendant Services

This program allows Section 29 Waiver participants to self-direct their care by hiring, training, and managing their own caregivers – including family members in some cases.

How It Works:

• You receive a monthly budget for personal care services
• You can hire anyone you choose as your caregiver (with some restrictions)
• A fiscal intermediary agency handles payroll and taxes
• You have more flexibility in when and how services are provided

Special Population Services

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Maine AAAs are working to ensure LGBTQ+ seniors feel welcome and safe when accessing services. While services aren’t specifically designated as LGBTQ+-focused, all AAAs are required to provide non-discriminatory services.

What to Expect:

• All AAA staff receive training on serving diverse populations
• You cannot be denied services based on sexual orientation or gender identity
• If you experience discrimination, contact the AAA director or the Maine Office of Aging and Disability Services
• Some AAAs partner with LGBTQ+ organizations to provide culturally competent services

Resources:

• SAGEMaine: A program of EqualityMaine providing support for older LGBTQ+ adults
• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: 1-877-360-LGBT (5428)
• Local Pride organizations may offer senior-specific programming

Veteran Seniors

Maine has approximately 110,000 veterans, many of whom are seniors. AAAs coordinate with the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services and VA Medical Centers to ensure veterans receive all benefits they’ve earned.

Veteran-Specific Services:

• Help applying for VA benefits and healthcare
• Transportation to VA medical appointments
• Assistance with VA pension applications
• Connection to VA home and community-based services
• Honor guard and burial assistance coordination

Key Resources:

• Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services: 207-430-6035
• Veteran Service Officers located throughout the state
• VA Medical Centers in Togus and clinics throughout Maine
• Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)

Disabled Seniors

All 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
• Transportation with wheelchair accessibility
• Independent living skills training
• Benefits counseling for disability programs
• Advocacy for disability rights and services

Important Note: If you become disabled after age 60, you may be eligible for services through both the aging and disability service systems. AAA staff can help you understand your options.

Native American Elders

Maine has four federally recognized tribes and several state-recognized tribes. While Maine doesn’t have specific tribal AAA services, resources are available:

Tribal Resources:

• Penobscot Nation: Operates their own senior nutrition program
• Passamaquoddy Tribe: Provides transportation services for tribal members
• Micmac Nation: Offers cultural programming for elders
• Maliseet Tribe: Provides elder support services

Other Tribal Resources:

• National Indian Council on Aging: 505-292-2001
• Native Elder Service Locator: eldercare.acl.gov
• Local AAAs serve tribal members and can help access culturally appropriate services

Rural Seniors and Families

Rural seniors face unique challenges including geographic isolation, limited transportation, and harsh weather conditions. Maine’s AAAs adapt their services to meet rural needs:

Rural-Specific Adaptations:

• Mobile service delivery (bringing services to you)
• Volunteer driver programs for long-distance medical trips
• Telecommunication services (phone check-ins, virtual support groups)
• Partnerships with faith-based organizations
• Flexible service delivery schedules
• Emergency preparedness programs

Challenges to Expect:

• Longer wait times for services
• Less frequent transportation options
• Fewer dining sites for congregate meals
• Limited internet access for online services
• Provider shortages for in-home services
• Weather-related service disruptions

How to Access Services

Step 1: Call the Statewide Number

Dial 1-877-353-3771 from anywhere in Maine. This toll-free number connects you to your local AAA based on your county of residence. The line operates with live staff typically available Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM.

Step 2: Initial Screening

AAA staff will ask basic questions about:

• Your age and county of residence
• What type of help you’re seeking
• Your current living situation
• Whether you have urgent needs
• Basic financial information (for some programs)

This initial conversation typically takes 10-15 minutes and helps staff understand how to best assist you.

Step 3: 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 simple services
• In person at the AAA office
• In your home for complex situations

Assessments evaluate your:

• Physical and cognitive abilities
• Safety concerns
• Social support system
• Financial resources
• Service preferences

Step 4: Service Planning

Based on your assessment, AAA staff will:

• Explain available services and programs
• Help you apply for relevant benefits
• Develop a service plan if needed
• Make referrals to other agencies
• Schedule ongoing services

Step 5: Follow-Up

AAAs provide ongoing support through:

• Regular check-ins with case managers
• Annual reassessments for waiver programs
• Help accessing new services as needs change
• Advocacy when problems arise

Costs and Financial Assistance

Free Services

These services are available at no cost to eligible participants:

• Information and assistance
• Benefits counseling (Medicare, MaineCare, Social Security)
• Legal consultations
• Case management
• Family caregiver support and education

Low-Cost 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)

Income-Based Services

Some services use sliding fee scales based on your income:

• In-home care services
• Adult day programs
• Respite care
• Home modifications

Insurance and MaineCare Coverage

Many services can be covered by:

• MaineCare (including waiver programs)
• Medicare (for medically necessary services)
• Private insurance
• Veterans benefits
• Other state and federal programs

Financial Reality: Even free services have limited funding. This means:

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

Quality and Accountability

Program Standards

All AAAs must meet federal and state standards for:

• Staff qualifications and training
• Service quality and safety
• Financial management
• Non-discrimination policies
• Confidentiality protections

Oversight and Monitoring

AAAs are monitored by:

• The Maine Office of Aging and Disability Services
• Federal Administration for Community Living
• Independent auditors
• Consumer advisory councils
• Local governing boards

Complaint Process

If you have concerns about services:

1. Talk to your service provider first – Many issues can be resolved quickly at this level
2. Contact the AAA director – Each AAA has a process for handling complaints
3. Call the Maine Office of Aging and Disability Services – 207-287-9200 for state-level review
4. Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman – 1-800-499-0229 for nursing home and assisted living complaints

Your Rights

As a service recipient, you have the right to:

• Be treated with dignity and respect
• Receive services without discrimination
• Have your personal information kept confidential
• Participate in decisions about your care
• File complaints without retaliation
• Receive services that meet professional standards

Resources by Region

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What services are available during Maine’s harsh winters?

Maine AAAs have specific winter preparedness programs including emergency food deliveries, heating assistance referrals, and wellness check calls during severe weather. Many AAAs maintain emergency food supplies and have protocols for checking on isolated seniors during blizzards. Transportation services may be suspended during dangerous weather conditions, but emergency meal delivery often continues with modified schedules.

Can I get help if I’m a seasonal resident who spends part of the year in Maine?

Yes, AAAs serve anyone residing in Maine during their time in the state, including seasonal residents. However, some services like MaineCare waiver programs require Maine residency. Information and assistance, emergency services, and many community programs are available to seasonal residents. Contact your local AAA to discuss which services you can access based on your residency status.

How do Maine AAAs handle services for people living on islands?

AAAs coordinate with ferry services and local island communities to provide services to island residents. This may include special transportation arrangements for medical appointments on the mainland, modified meal delivery schedules around ferry operations, and partnerships with island health centers. Some islands have volunteer networks that work with AAAs to ensure services reach residents.

Are services available in French for Franco-American seniors?

Yes, particularly in northern and eastern Maine where there are significant Franco-American populations. Several AAAs have bilingual staff or contracted interpreters who speak French. All AAAs are required to provide interpretation services in needed languages at no cost to you. The Aroostook Area Agency on Aging specifically serves many Franco-American communities.

What happens if I need services but live in a very remote area of Maine?

AAAs have adapted rural service delivery models for Maine’s remote areas. This includes mobile service units, volunteer driver programs for long-distance transportation, telehealth partnerships, and coordination with local emergency services. While service frequency may be less than in populated areas, AAAs work to ensure no one is left without access to basic services due to location.

Can family members who live out of state get information about services for their Maine relative?

Yes, family members can contact AAAs to get information about services for their relatives in Maine. However, due to confidentiality requirements, AAAs may need written permission from the Maine resident before sharing specific information about their services or situation. Family members can always get general information about available programs and how to help their relative access services.

How do I know if my income is too high for services?

Most basic AAA services (information, assistance, Medicare counseling, legal consultations) have no income limits. For services with suggested donations like meals and transportation, you’re never turned away for inability to pay. Only some programs like MaineCare waivers have specific income limits. The best approach is to call and ask – AAA staff can quickly let you know what you’re eligible for based on your situation.

What’s the difference between AAAs and other senior centers in Maine?

AAAs are regional agencies that coordinate services across multiple counties and receive federal/state funding. They often work with local senior centers, community centers, and other organizations to deliver services. A local senior center might host AAA programs like congregate meals or wellness activities, but the AAA provides the overall coordination, funding, and oversight. Think of AAAs as the umbrella organization that makes many local senior services possible.

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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:

• Maine Aging & Disability Resource Centers: 1-877-353-3771
• Maine Office of Aging and Disability Services: 207-287-9200
• Your local Area Agency on Aging

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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 grant opportunities.

Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (HHS, USDA, SSA, CMS), 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 deadlines.

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 financial assistance programs.