Area Agencies on Aging in Nevada

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

Last updated: January 15, 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:

• Nevada 211: Dial 2-1-1 – Statewide resource line (Monday-Friday, 9 AM – 9 PM PST)
• Adult Protective Services Clark County: (702) 486-6930 – Report elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• Adult Protective Services Statewide: (888) 729-0571 – For all other Nevada counties
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 – Free, confidential support
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 – Mental health crisis support

For immediate food and emergency assistance:

• Contact your local ADSD regional office for emergency programs
• Nevada 211 – Dial 2-1-1 for comprehensive local emergency resources

Key Takeaways

• Nevada has a unique centralized structure with aging services primarily delivered through the Nevada Aging and Disability Services Division (ADSD)
• Four regional offices serve all 17 counties across Nevada
• All services are free or low-cost for seniors 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• No income requirements for basic information and assistance services
• Nevada Care Connection provides specialized resource navigation for Clark County residents
• ADSD offices function as Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) – your single entry point for help
• Medicaid waiver programs help eligible Nevadans receive care at home instead of nursing facilities
• Rural service delivery is emphasized due to Nevada’s vast geography and sparse population

What Are Area Agencies on Aging in Nevada?

Nevada operates differently from most states when it comes to aging services. Rather than having multiple independent Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), Nevada uses a centralized model through the Nevada Aging and Disability Services Division (ADSD), which is part of the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services.

This state-operated system directly manages aging services across Nevada’s 17 counties through four regional offices. Think of ADSD as both the state oversight agency and the primary service delivery system rolled into one. This approach allows for consistent service standards statewide while adapting to Nevada’s unique geography and population distribution.

Nevada’s system emphasizes serving rural and tribal communities, recognizing that much of the state is sparsely populated. The ADSD regional offices coordinate services not just for urban areas like Las Vegas and Reno, but also for remote communities across Nevada’s vast landscape.

Each ADSD regional office also functions as an Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC), serving as a “one-stop shop” for information about aging, disability, and long-term care services. This means you can contact any ADSD office for help regardless of your age, income, or disability status.

Nevada’s Regional Aging Services Structure

Note: Nevada Care Connection (www.nevadacareconnection.org) provides additional resource navigation services specifically for Clark County residents, complementing ADSD services.

Core Services Provided by Nevada ADSD

Information and Assistance

Every ADSD regional office provides comprehensive information and assistance to help you navigate available services and benefits. Trained staff can help with:

• Explanation of programs and services available in your area
• Eligibility requirements and application assistance
• Benefits counseling for Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and other programs
• Referrals to other agencies and community resources
• Connection to appropriate services based on your needs

Information and assistance services are available to anyone who contacts ADSD, regardless of age, income, or eligibility for other programs.

Nutrition Programs

ADSD operates statewide nutrition programs designed to address food insecurity while promoting social connections among older adults.

Congregate Meals: Nutritious meals served at senior centers, community centers, and other gathering places throughout Nevada. These programs provide more than nutrition – they offer socialization opportunities and information about other available services. Suggested donations are typically $3-5 for participants 60+, but no one is denied services for inability to contribute.

Home-Delivered Meals: For homebound seniors or those with difficulty accessing meal sites, ADSD coordinates home-delivered meal programs throughout Nevada. Volunteers and paid staff deliver hot or frozen meals directly to homes, typically 1-5 days per week. Priority goes to seniors who are homebound, lack informal support, or are at nutritional risk.

Special Dietary Programs: ADSD accommodates special dietary needs including diabetic, low-sodium, and other medically necessary meal modifications when possible.

Transportation Services

Transportation is a critical service in Nevada due to the state’s vast distances and limited public transit in rural areas. ADSD addresses transportation needs through:

Medical Transportation: Priority transportation for medical appointments, dialysis, therapy, and other health-related trips. Some regions operate vehicle fleets with trained drivers, while others use voucher systems for taxi or ride services.

General Transportation: Scheduled transportation for essential activities like grocery shopping, banking, pharmacy visits, and social activities. Service frequency varies significantly between urban and rural areas.

Rural Transportation Solutions: Specialized programs for Nevada’s remote communities may include volunteer driver programs for long-distance medical trips and mobile service delivery.

Reality Check: Due to Nevada’s geography, transportation wait times can be significant, especially for rural residents. Long-distance medical transportation may require advance scheduling of several days to weeks.

Legal Assistance

ADSD provides free legal assistance for seniors 60+ in civil matters that affect their safety, health, and economic security. Common legal issues include:

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

Legal services are provided by staff attorneys and volunteer lawyers throughout Nevada, with special attention to serving rural and isolated seniors.

Medicare and Insurance Counseling (SHIP)

Nevada’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free, unbiased counseling to help Medicare beneficiaries understand their options and resolve problems. SHIP counseling is available in Spanish, Taiwanese (Hokkien) and Mandarin. Services include:

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

SHIP counselors receive extensive training and have no financial interest in insurance sales, ensuring completely objective advice.

Case Management and Care Coordination

For Nevadans with complex needs, ADSD provides case management to help coordinate multiple services and navigate the healthcare system. Case managers:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of your needs and goals
• Develop individualized care plans
• Connect you with appropriate services and benefits
• Monitor your situation and adjust services as needed
• Advocate on your behalf with service providers
• Coordinate with family members and informal caregivers

Family Caregiver Support

ADSD operates comprehensive Family Caregiver Support Programs to assist family members caring for older adults or people with disabilities. Services include:

Information and Education: Training workshops on caregiving techniques, stress management, understanding chronic conditions, and navigating the service system.

Support Groups and Counseling: Peer support groups and individual counseling to help caregivers cope with the emotional and practical challenges of providing care.

Respite Care: Temporary care services that give family caregivers breaks from their caregiving responsibilities. Options may include in-home companions, adult day programs, or short-term residential care.

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

Medicaid Waiver Programs in Nevada

Nevada offers several Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs that help eligible individuals receive care in their homes instead of nursing facilities.

Home and Community-Based Services Waiver for the Frail Elderly (HCBS-FE)

Nevada’s HCBS Waiver for the Frail Elderly helps older state residents avoid institutional (nursing home) placement by offering a range of support services that help them remain living in their home or in the home of a family member. The provision of HCBS is based upon the identified needs of the recipient and available funding.

Services Include:

• Case management and service coordination
• Homemaker services (housekeeping, meal preparation, laundry)
• Respite care for family caregivers
• Adult companion services
• Adult day care programs
• Augmented personal care assistance
• Chore services (minor home repairs, yard work)
• Home-delivered meals
• Personal emergency response systems

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be 65 years or older
• Must be Nevada Medicaid eligible
• Must require nursing facility level of care
• Must choose to receive services at home instead of in a nursing facility
• The 2026 income limit for HCBS Waivers in Nevada for a single applicant is $2,982/month
• Asset limits: $2,000 for single individuals, $3,000 for couples applying together

HCBS Waiver for Persons with Physical Disabilities

The Nevada Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver for Persons with Physical Disabilities allows individuals who require a nursing home level of care to remain living at home, in the home of a relative, or in an assisted living residence, by providing care and other supportive services.

Services Include:

• Attendant care (assistance with daily living activities)
• Case management
• Homemaker services
• Respite care
• Chore services
• Environmental accessibility adaptations (ramps, grab bars)
• Home-delivered meals
• Personal emergency response systems
• Specialized medical equipment and supplies

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be assessed as disabled by a physician
• Must require nursing facility level of care
• In 2024, a single applicant must not have monthly income in excess of $2,829
• Same asset limits as Frail Elderly waiver

Consumer-Directed Care: Under this waiver, participants can direct their own care, or they may designate a personal care representative to do so in their place. Friends and family, with the exception of spouses and legal guardians, can be hired and paid to provide care.

HCBS Waiver for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Provides day habilitation, prevocational services, residential support, supported employment, behavioral consultation/training and intervention, benefits counseling services, career planning, counseling services, dental services, individual directed goods and services, non-medical transportation, nursing services, nutrition counseling, and residential support management services to individuals with intellectual disabilities ages 0 or older who meet an ICF/IID level of care.

Special Population Services

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Nevada’s ADSD provides non-discriminatory services to all Nevadans regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The Center LV serves the LGBTQ+ Community of Southern Nevada and partners with ADSD to ensure culturally competent services.

What to Expect:

• All ADSD staff receive diversity and inclusion training
• Services cannot be denied based on sexual orientation or gender identity
• Complaints about discrimination can be filed with ADSD or state civil rights agencies
• Las Vegas area has additional LGBTQ+-specific resources and programming

Resources:

• The Center LV: Las Vegas-based LGBTQ+ community center
• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: 1-877-360-LGBT (5428)
• Nevada 211 can connect you to LGBTQ+-affirming services statewide

Veteran Seniors

Nevada has a significant veteran population, and ADSD coordinates with the Nevada Department of Veterans Services and VA Medical Centers to ensure veterans receive all earned benefits.

Veteran-Specific Services:

• Assistance applying for VA benefits and healthcare
• Transportation to VA medical appointments in Reno and Las Vegas
• Help with VA pension and disability claims
• Connection to VA home and community-based services
• Coordination with Nevada Department of Veterans Services programs

Key Resources:

• Nevada Department of Veterans Services: (775) 688-1653
• VA Medical Centers in Reno and Las Vegas
• County Veterans Service Officers throughout Nevada
• Veterans Crisis Line: 988 (Press 1)

Native American Seniors

Nevada is home to 27 federally recognized tribes and colonies. ADSD works closely with tribal communities to provide culturally appropriate services.

Tribal-Specific Services:

• Coordination with tribal aging programs
• Cultural considerations in service delivery
• Transportation services that respect tribal sovereignty
• Collaboration with Indian Health Service programs
• Traditional foods incorporation in nutrition programs where possible

Resources:

• National Indian Council on Aging: (505) 292-2001
• Nevada Indian Commission: (775) 687-8333
• Each tribe may operate its own senior services – contact tribal offices directly

Rural Seniors and Families

Nevada’s rural communities face unique challenges including vast distances, limited services, and sparse populations. ADSD adapts its services specifically for rural needs:

Rural-Specific Adaptations:

• Mobile service delivery bringing services directly to communities
• Satellite offices and outreach sites in remote areas
• Volunteer driver programs for long-distance travel
• Telehealth and virtual support services
• Partnerships with rural hospitals and clinics
• Extended service territories for home-delivered meals
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate travel distances

Rural Challenges to Expect:

• Longer wait times for services due to distance and staffing
• Less frequent transportation options
• Limited choices in service providers
• Weather-related service disruptions
• Higher costs for service delivery in remote areas

How to Access Services

Step 1: Contact Your Regional ADSD Office

Contact the ADSD regional office serving your county using the phone numbers listed in the regional structure table above. You can also dial Nevada 211 for general information and referrals.

Step 2: Initial Screening

ADSD staff will conduct an initial screening to understand:

• Your current situation and needs
• What type of assistance you’re seeking
• Your location and any urgent needs
• Basic demographic and financial information
• Whether you need immediate assistance or ongoing services

This conversation typically takes 15-20 minutes and helps staff determine the best way to assist you.

Step 3: Assessment (If Needed)

For ongoing services or waiver programs, you may need a comprehensive assessment. This assessment can be conducted:

• Over the phone for simple services
• At the ADSD regional office
• In your home for complex situations or if you’re homebound

Assessments evaluate your:

• Physical and cognitive abilities
• Safety and living situation
• Social support system
• Financial resources and benefit eligibility
• Service preferences and goals

Step 4: Service Planning and Authorization

Based on your assessment, ADSD staff will:

• Explain available services and programs
• Assist with benefit applications
• Develop a service plan tailored to your needs
• Make referrals to other agencies and providers
• Authorize and schedule ongoing services

Step 5: Ongoing Support and Monitoring

ADSD provides continuing support through:

• Regular check-ins with case managers
• Annual reassessments for waiver participants
• Assistance accessing new services as needs change
• Problem-solving and advocacy when issues arise
• Coordination with healthcare providers and family members

Costs and Financial Assistance

Free Services

These services are available at no cost to participants:

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

Low-Cost Services with Suggested Donations

These services typically have suggested donations but participants cannot be denied for inability to pay:

• Congregate meals ($3-5 suggested donation)
• Home-delivered meals ($3-6 suggested donation per meal)
• Transportation services ($2-5 suggested donation per trip)

Income-Based Services

Some services use sliding fee scales based on income:

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

Insurance and Medicaid Coverage

Many services can be covered through:

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

Financial Reality: Even free services have capacity limits due to funding constraints. This means you may encounter waiting lists, especially for intensive services like personal care. Rural residents may face additional challenges due to provider shortages and travel distances.

Quality Assurance and Accountability

Program Standards

ADSD must meet federal and state standards for:

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

Oversight and Monitoring

ADSD is monitored by:

• Federal Administration for Community Living
• Nevada Department of Health and Human Services
• Independent auditors and quality assurance teams
• Consumer advisory councils
• Nevada Legislature

Complaint Process

If you have concerns about ADSD services:

1. Talk to your service provider first – Many issues can be resolved quickly at this level
2. Contact the ADSD regional office supervisor – Each office has procedures for handling complaints
3. File a formal complaint with ADSD central office – Contact (775) 687-4210 for Carson City region issues
4. Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman – Call Nevada 211 for ombudsman services
5. File with state agencies – Nevada Department of Health and Human Services handles serious violations

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 and services
• File complaints without fear of retaliation
• Receive services that meet professional standards
• Be informed about available services and eligibility requirements

Regional Service Highlights

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I have to meet income requirements to get help from ADSD?

No income requirements exist for basic information and assistance services. Anyone can contact ADSD for help understanding their options. However, some ongoing services like Medicaid waiver programs do have income limits. Many services have suggested donations but you cannot be denied for inability to pay.

How does Nevada’s system compare to other states with multiple Area Agencies on Aging?

Nevada’s centralized system through ADSD is unusual – most states have multiple independent AAAs. This structure allows for consistent statewide standards but may be less responsive to local community needs. The benefit is that you can get help from any ADSD office regardless of where you live in Nevada.

What if I live in rural Nevada – are services really available?

Yes, but services in rural areas may be less frequent and require more advance planning. ADSD has adapted its delivery model for Nevada’s geography with mobile services, volunteer programs, and extended service areas. However, you should expect longer wait times and fewer provider choices compared to urban areas.

Can I get services if I’m not on Medicaid?

Absolutely. Many ADSD services are funded through the Older Americans Act and other sources that don’t require Medicaid eligibility. While Medicaid waiver programs have the most comprehensive services, significant help is available regardless of your insurance status.

What’s the difference between ADSD and Nevada Care Connection?

ADSD is the state agency that directly provides aging and disability services throughout Nevada. Nevada Care Connection is a resource navigation service that helps Clark County residents find and access services, including but not limited to ADSD programs. Think of Nevada Care Connection as an additional layer of assistance specifically for Las Vegas area residents.

How long do I typically wait for services to start?

This varies greatly by service type and location. Information and assistance are usually available immediately. Transportation and meal services may start within 1-2 weeks. Medicaid waiver programs often have waiting lists and may take several months to over a year. Rural residents generally wait longer due to provider availability.

Do services continue if I move to a different county in Nevada?

Since ADSD operates statewide, your case can usually be transferred between regional offices when you move within Nevada. However, specific services may need to be reestablished based on provider availability in your new area. Contact the regional office serving your new location to arrange the transfer.

Are ADSD services available in languages other than English?

Yes. SHIP counseling is available in Spanish, Taiwanese (Hokkien) and Mandarin, and ADSD provides interpretation services in other languages as needed. There is no charge for interpretation services. ADSD staff can arrange interpreters for most languages with advance notice.

What happens if I disagree with an eligibility decision or service level?

Nevada has formal appeal processes for most programs. You have the right to request a fair hearing if you disagree with eligibility decisions, service denials, or benefit reductions. ADSD staff can explain the appeals process and help you understand your options. Legal assistance may be available through ADSD’s legal services program.

Can family members be paid to provide care through ADSD programs?

Under the Physical Disabilities waiver, friends and family, with the exception of spouses and legal guardians, can be hired and paid to provide care. Similar options may be available under other waiver programs. However, these arrangements must be approved through the waiver program and meet specific requirements.

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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 Nevada Aging and Disability Services Division 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:

• Nevada 211: Dial 2-1-1
• Nevada Aging and Disability Services Division: (775) 687-4210 (Carson City)
• Your local ADSD regional office

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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, ACL, CMS), Nevada 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.