Area Agencies on Aging in Minnesota

Complete Guide to Area Agencies on Aging in Minnesota (2026)

Last updated: January 13, 2026

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:

• Senior LinkAge Line: 1-800-333-2433 – Statewide information and assistance service
• Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center: 1-844-880-1574 – Report elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 – Free, confidential crisis support
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 – Mental health crisis assistance

For immediate assistance:

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

Key Takeaways

• Minnesota has 7 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serving all 87 counties across the state
• All services are free or low-cost for adults 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• Call 1-800-333-2433 to connect with Senior LinkAge Line – your statewide gateway to aging services
• Each AAA operates as part of Minnesota’s coordinated aging network – including one dedicated to Native American communities
• No income requirements for information and assistance services
• All AAAs coordinate the Elderly Waiver and Alternative Care programs – helping you stay home instead of nursing facilities
• Minnesota Medical Assistance waiver programs provide comprehensive home and community-based services

What Are Area Agencies on Aging?

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are regional organizations that provide services, supports, and information for just about everything that older adults and their families could need. Authorized under the federal Older Americans Act and designated in Minnesota by the Minnesota Board on Aging, these agencies serve as the local connections to older Minnesotans and the community support they need as they age.

Minnesota’s AAAs function as comprehensive resource centers coordinating aging services across large geographic regions. They don’t only provide direct services – they also plan, coordinate, and fund programs throughout their service areas. Each of Minnesota’s 7 AAAs serves multiple counties and works with local nonprofits, government agencies, and community organizations to deliver services where you need them.

A unique feature of Minnesota’s system is the inclusion of the Minnesota Indian Area Agency on Aging (MIAAA), which specifically serves ten of Minnesota’s tribal reservations, ensuring culturally appropriate services for Native American elders.

The Minnesota Board on Aging 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 effectively. Minnesota’s AAAs work closely with the Senior LinkAge Line to provide coordinated statewide information and assistance services.

Minnesota’s 7 Area Agencies on Aging: Complete Directory

Note: Director names and contact information may change. Always verify current details by calling 1-800-333-2433.

Core Services Provided by Minnesota AAAs

Information and Assistance Through Senior LinkAge Line

Minnesota’s AAAs coordinate the Senior LinkAge Line, a free statewide service that connects older Minnesotans and their caregivers with the services and support they need. Trained specialists provide help with:

• Available programs and services in your area
• Eligibility requirements for different programs
• How to apply for benefits and services
• Referrals to other agencies and organizations
• Benefits counseling for Medicare, Medical Assistance, 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 Senior LinkAge Line.

Nutrition Programs

Minnesota AAAs coordinate comprehensive nutrition programs designed to combat food insecurity among older adults while promoting social connections and wellness.

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, Minnesota AAAs coordinate extensive home-delivered meal programs. Volunteers deliver hot, cold, 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.

Nutrition Education and Counseling: Many AAAs provide nutrition education programs, dietary counseling, and wellness promotion activities to help seniors maintain healthy eating habits.

Transportation Services

Transportation is often the biggest barrier preventing seniors from accessing healthcare, shopping, and social activities. AAAs address this challenge 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 urban 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, particularly important in rural Minnesota.

Reality Check: Transportation services often have waiting lists, especially in rural Minnesota. You may need to book rides 3-7 days in advance, and same-day transportation is rarely available except for 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 Medical Assistance 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 Health Insurance Counseling (SHIP)

Through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), the Senior LinkAge Line provides trained counselors who 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.

Minnesota Medical Assistance Waiver Programs Through AAAs

Minnesota offers several Medical Assistance (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.

Elderly Waiver (EW)

The Elderly Waiver is Minnesota’s primary home and community-based services program for older adults. 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
• Case management services
• Adult foster care services

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be Medical Assistance eligible
• Must be 65+ years old
• 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: $3,000 in countable assets for individuals, income varies

Reality Check: The Elderly Waiver may have waiting lists in some areas. Counties prioritize people at immediate risk of nursing home placement. Contact your county for current wait times.

Alternative Care (AC) Program

This state-funded program supports people who need nursing home level care but don’t qualify financially for Medical Assistance.

How It Works:

• For people 65+ who have slightly higher income/assets than Medical Assistance allows
• Provides limited home and community-based services
• Serves as a bridge program while people spend down to Medical Assistance eligibility
• Services similar to Elderly Waiver but more limited

Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS)

This option within the Elderly Waiver allows participants to self-direct their care services:

How It Works:

• You receive a budget for personal care services
• You can hire anyone you choose as your caregiver (including family members in some cases)
• Financial management services handle payroll and taxes
• You have more control over when and how services are provided

Other Specialized Waivers

Minnesota offers several other waiver programs for specific populations:

• Community Access for Disability Inclusion (CADI) Waiver – For adults with disabilities
• Brain Injury (BI) Waiver – For individuals with traumatic brain injuries
• Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver – For individuals with developmental disabilities
• Community Alternative Care (CAC) Waiver – For medically fragile individuals

Special Population Services

Native American Elders

Minnesota has a unique Area Agency on Aging specifically for Native American communities. The Minnesota Indian Area Agency on Aging (MIAAA) provides culturally appropriate services.

Tribal-Specific Services:

• Culturally appropriate nutrition programs including traditional foods
• Transportation services coordinated with tribal communities
• Elder councils and traditional healing programs
• Language preservation activities
• Coordination with Indian Health Service
• Traditional crafts and cultural activities

Reservations Served:

• Bois Forte, Fond du Lac, Grand Portage, Leech Lake, Lower Sioux
• Mille Lacs, Prairie Island, Red Lake, Upper Sioux, White Earth

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Minnesota 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 Minnesota Board on Aging
• Some AAAs partner with LGBTQ+ organizations to provide culturally competent services

Resources:

• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: 1-877-360-LGBT (5428)
• Local Pride organizations may offer senior-specific programming
• Twin Cities area has several LGBTQ+-friendly senior housing options

Veteran Seniors

Minnesota has approximately 350,000 veterans, many of whom are seniors. AAAs coordinate with the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs 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
• Veterans LinkAge Line: 1-888-546-5838 for veteran-specific assistance

Key Resources:

• Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs: 651-296-2562
• Veteran Service Officers located throughout the state
• VA Medical Centers in Minneapolis and St. Cloud
• Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)

Immigrant and Refugee Seniors

Minnesota has diverse immigrant and refugee populations. AAAs work to provide culturally competent services and language assistance.

Cultural Adaptations:

• Interpretation services in multiple languages including Hmong, Somali, Spanish, and Russian
• Culturally appropriate meal options when possible
• Partnerships with ethnic community organizations
• Staff training on cultural competency
• Assistance navigating complex benefit systems

Language Services:

• Hmong, Somali, Spanish, Russian, and many other languages
• Written materials available in multiple languages
• No charge for interpretation services

Rural Seniors and Families

Rural seniors in Minnesota face unique challenges including geographic isolation, limited transportation, and harsh winter weather. AAAs adapt their services to meet rural needs:

Rural-Specific Adaptations:

• Mobile service delivery programs
• 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
• Winter 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 Senior LinkAge Line

Dial 1-800-333-2433 from anywhere in Minnesota. This free statewide service connects you to your local AAA and services based on your county of residence. Live staff are available Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM, with online chat also available during these hours.

Step 2: Initial Screening

Senior LinkAge Line specialists 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 specialists understand how to best assist you.

Step 3: Assessment (If Needed)

For ongoing services like waiver programs, you may need a MnCHOICES assessment. This could happen:

• Over the phone for simple services
• In person at the county office
• In your home for complex situations

MnCHOICES 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 or county staff will:

• Explain available services and programs
• Help you apply for relevant benefits
• Develop a service plan if needed
• Make referrals to local service providers
• 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 through Senior LinkAge Line
• Benefits counseling (Medicare, Medical Assistance, 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 Medical Assistance Coverage

Many services can be covered by:

• Minnesota Medical Assistance (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 Minnesota Board on Aging
• Federal Administration for Community Living
• Independent auditors
• Local advisory councils
• Consumer input and feedback

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 Minnesota Board on Aging – 651-431-2500 for state-level review
4. Contact the Minnesota Elder Justice Center – for advocacy and support

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)

How does the Senior LinkAge Line work differently from calling AAAs directly?

The Senior LinkAge Line is a coordinated statewide system staffed by specialists from multiple AAAs. When you call 1-800-333-2433, you reach trained professionals who can help with any aging-related question regardless of where you live in Minnesota. They have access to statewide resources and can connect you to local services or provide direct assistance for many issues like Medicare counseling and benefit applications.

What makes Minnesota’s tribal AAA unique?

The Minnesota Indian Area Agency on Aging (MIAAA) is one of the few tribal-specific AAAs in the nation. It provides culturally appropriate services that honor Native American traditions, including traditional foods in nutrition programs, elder councils, language preservation activities, and coordination with Indian Health Service. This ensures that Native American elders receive services that respect their cultural values and traditions.

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

Minnesota residency is required for most ongoing services like waiver programs, but some services may be available to part-time residents. Emergency services, information and assistance, and some health insurance counseling may be available regardless of residency status. Contact the Senior LinkAge Line to discuss which services you can access based on your specific residency situation.

How do Minnesota’s harsh winters affect aging services?

Minnesota AAAs have extensive winter preparedness programs including emergency food deliveries, warming centers, wellness checks during severe weather, and modified transportation schedules. Many services continue during blizzards with adjusted delivery times. AAAs maintain emergency contact lists for isolated seniors and coordinate with emergency services for welfare checks during extreme weather events.

What’s the difference between the Elderly Waiver and Alternative Care program?

The Elderly Waiver is for people who qualify for Medical Assistance (Medicaid) and provides comprehensive services. Alternative Care is for people whose income/assets are slightly too high for Medical Assistance but still need nursing home level care. Alternative Care provides more limited services and often serves as a bridge program while people spend down their resources to qualify for Medical Assistance.

How does Minnesota coordinate services for the large immigrant and refugee populations?

Minnesota AAAs provide interpretation services in multiple languages and partner with ethnic community organizations. The Senior LinkAge Line has materials available in Hmong, Somali, Spanish, and Russian. Staff receive cultural competency training, and AAAs work with refugee resettlement agencies to ensure newly arrived older adults understand available services.

Are there special considerations for seniors in Minnesota’s agricultural communities?

Many Minnesota AAAs serve rural agricultural communities and have adapted services accordingly. This includes flexible scheduling around planting and harvest seasons, mobile service delivery to remote farms, partnerships with agricultural cooperatives, and understanding of seasonal income variations. Some programs provide assistance during agricultural transition periods when farmers retire.

How do Minnesota AAAs coordinate with Mayo Clinic and other major medical centers?

AAAs, particularly in southeastern Minnesota, maintain close relationships with major medical centers like Mayo Clinic. They help coordinate services for patients and families from across the region and internationally who come for treatment, provide transportation assistance, and help with temporary housing. The Senior LinkAge Line can help navigate these complex medical systems and connect patients with appropriate supports.

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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 January 2026, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with the relevant Area Agency on Aging or the Senior LinkAge Line 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:

• Senior LinkAge Line: 1-800-333-2433
• Minnesota Board on Aging: 651-431-2500
• 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: January 2026

• Sources Verified: January 2026

• Next Review: May 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.