Area Agencies on Aging in North Carolina

Complete Guide to Area Agencies on Aging in North Carolina (2026)

Last updated: January 06, 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:

• NC 211: Dial 2-1-1 – 24/7/365 statewide information and referral service (available in multiple languages)
• Adult Protective Services: 919-855-3400 – Report elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 – Free, confidential support available 24/7
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 – Mental health crisis support

For immediate food assistance:

• Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for emergency food programs
• NC 211 – Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency resources and food pantries

Key Takeaways

• North Carolina has 16 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serving all 100 counties across the state
• Services are free or low-cost for seniors 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• Call 2-1-1 to connect with your local AAA and aging services – this number works statewide
• Each AAA operates within regional Councils of Government providing coordinated local services
• No income requirements for basic information and assistance services
• Most AAAs provide nutrition programs, transportation, legal help, and long-term care assistance
• Community Alternatives Program (CAP) and other waiver programs help you stay home instead of nursing facilities
• All counties have Long-Term Care Ombudsman services to protect residents in care facilities

What Are Area Agencies on Aging?

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are regional organizations that plan, coordinate, and deliver essential services for older adults and people with disabilities throughout North Carolina. Established under the federal Older Americans Act in 1973, these agencies form the foundation of the state’s aging services network.

In North Carolina, AAAs operate as divisions within regional Councils of Government, creating a unique structure that combines aging services with broader regional planning and development efforts. This integration allows AAAs to coordinate effectively with other local services and leverage additional resources for seniors.

Each AAA serves as the local hub for aging services in their region, typically covering multiple counties. They don’t provide every service directly, but they plan, fund, coordinate, and oversee a network of local providers who deliver services in communities across their regions.

The North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) oversees all AAAs statewide and provides federal and state funding through various programs including the Older Americans Act, Community Alternatives Program, and Home and Community Care Block Grant.

North Carolina’s 16 Area Agencies on Aging: Complete Directory

Note: Contact information may change. Always verify current details by calling 2-1-1 or the North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services at 919-855-3400.

Core Services Provided by North Carolina AAAs

Information and Assistance

All AAAs provide comprehensive information and assistance services to help residents understand available options and navigate the complex system of aging and disability services. Trained staff can help with:

• Explaining eligibility requirements for various programs
• Connecting you with appropriate local service providers
• Assisting with benefit applications and appeals
• Providing referrals to other agencies and organizations
• Offering guidance on long-term care planning and options

This service is available to anyone regardless of age, income, or other factors. It’s your starting point for accessing the aging services network.

Nutrition Programs

Nutrition services address food insecurity while promoting health and social engagement among older adults.

Congregate Nutrition Programs: Nutritious meals served at senior centers, community centers, and other group dining locations. These programs provide social interaction opportunities alongside healthy meals. Suggested donations typically range from $3-6, but no eligible person is denied meals due to inability to contribute.

Home-Delivered Nutrition Programs: Commonly known as Meals on Wheels, these programs deliver meals directly to homebound seniors who cannot shop or prepare meals independently. Services may include hot meals, frozen meals, or shelf-stable meal options, depending on local program capabilities.

Nutrition Education and Counseling: Many AAAs provide nutrition education programs, cooking classes, and individual nutrition counseling to help seniors maintain healthy eating habits and manage chronic conditions through diet.

Transportation Services

Transportation remains one of the most critical services for maintaining independence among older adults. North Carolina AAAs address this need through various approaches:

Medical Transportation: Specialized transportation to medical appointments, dialysis, physical therapy, and other health-related destinations. Some regions operate dedicated medical transport vehicles, while others coordinate with volunteer drivers or transportation voucher programs.

General Transportation: Service for essential trips including grocery shopping, banking, pharmacy visits, and social activities. Availability varies significantly between urban and rural areas.

Volunteer Driver Programs: Many AAAs coordinate volunteer driver programs that use trained community volunteers to provide transportation, often for longer-distance trips to major medical centers.

Important Note: Transportation services in North Carolina often require advance scheduling, particularly in rural areas. Same-day transportation is typically reserved for medical emergencies only.

Legal Assistance

Free legal services are available for seniors 60+ in civil matters that affect their safety, security, and well-being. Common legal assistance includes:

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

Legal assistance may be provided by staff attorneys, contract attorneys, or trained volunteer lawyers, depending on the AAA region and complexity of the issue.

Long-Term Care Options Counseling

AAAs provide unbiased counseling to help individuals and families understand and plan for long-term care needs. This includes:

• Explanation of different care settings (home care, adult day programs, assisted living, nursing homes)
• Assistance with Community Alternatives Program (CAP) waiver applications
• Help understanding Medicare and Medicaid coverage for long-term care
• Information about private pay options and long-term care insurance
• Guidance on advance care planning and decision-making

Case Management Services

For individuals with complex or multiple service needs, AAAs provide case management to coordinate care and services. Case managers work with clients to:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of needs and preferences
• Develop individualized service plans
• Coordinate multiple services from different providers
• Monitor service quality and effectiveness
• Advocate with service providers and benefit programs
• Provide ongoing support and reassessment as needs change

Family Caregiver Support Programs

Recognizing that family caregivers provide the majority of long-term care in North Carolina, AAAs operate comprehensive caregiver support programs including:

Information and Education: Training sessions on caregiving techniques, managing specific conditions, understanding available resources, and self-care for caregivers.

Counseling and Support Groups: Individual counseling services and peer support groups to help caregivers manage stress, make difficult decisions, and connect with others facing similar challenges.

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

Supplemental Services: Limited funding for services not available through other programs, such as emergency response systems, minor home modifications, or assistive devices.

Community Alternatives Program (CAP) and Waiver Services

North Carolina’s Community Alternatives Program (CAP) is the state’s primary Medicaid waiver program that helps eligible individuals receive care at home or in community settings instead of nursing facilities.

CAP Waiver Services

The CAP waiver provides comprehensive home and community-based services for individuals who would otherwise require nursing facility care.

Available Services Include:

• Personal care assistance with activities of daily living
• Adult day health programs with nursing and therapy services
• Home-delivered meals and nutrition counseling
• Skilled nursing visits for medical needs
• Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
• Medical equipment and supplies
• Home modifications for safety and accessibility
• Respite care for family caregivers
• Transportation to medical appointments
• Personal emergency response systems

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be Medicaid eligible or meet special income guidelines
• Must require nursing facility level of care
• Must choose to receive services in home or community setting
• Must be able to live safely in the community with services
• Financial limits: $2,000 in countable assets for individuals, $3,000 for couples

Application Process: Contact your local AAA or the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services to begin the application process. Assessment and approval can take several months, and there may be waiting lists in some areas.

Other Waiver Programs

CAP/Choice: Allows some CAP participants to self-direct their personal care services by hiring, training, and managing their own caregivers, including family members in some cases.

Innovations Waiver: Serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who also meet nursing facility level of care requirements.

TBI Waiver: Provides services for individuals with traumatic brain injuries who require nursing facility level of care.

Special Population Services

Rural Residents

North Carolina’s large rural population faces unique challenges in accessing aging services. AAAs have developed specialized approaches to serve rural communities:

Mobile Services: Some AAAs operate mobile units that bring services directly to rural communities, including health screenings, benefits counseling, and nutrition programs.

Faith-Based Partnerships: Many rural AAAs work closely with churches and faith communities to deliver services and reach isolated seniors.

Technology Solutions: Telehealth services, online support groups, and telephone check-in programs help connect rural seniors with services and social support.

Regional Coordination: AAAs coordinate transportation services across county lines to help rural residents access medical care and services in larger towns and cities.

Veterans

North Carolina has a large veteran population, and AAAs coordinate closely with the NC Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and VA Medical Centers to ensure veterans receive all earned benefits.

Veteran-Specific Services:

• Assistance with VA healthcare enrollment and benefits applications
• Transportation to VA medical facilities
• Help applying for Aid and Attendance pension benefits
• Connection to veteran-specific home and community services
• Support for veteran caregivers and surviving spouses

Key Resources:

• NC Department of Military and Veterans Affairs: 919-809-4500
• County Veteran Service Officers in all 100 counties
• VA Medical Centers in Asheville, Durham, Fayetteville, and Salisbury
• Veterans Crisis Line: 988 (Press 1)

LGBTQ+ Seniors

North Carolina AAAs are working to ensure LGBTQ+ seniors feel welcome and receive culturally competent services. While specific LGBTQ+ programs may be limited, efforts include:

• Non-discrimination policies and staff training
• Partnerships with LGBTQ+ organizations where available
• Inclusive language and forms in service delivery
• Advocacy for LGBTQ+ seniors’ rights and needs

Resources:

• SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline: 1-877-360-LGBT (5428)
• Local PFLAG chapters in major cities
• LGBTQ+ community centers in Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham, and Asheville

Native American Communities

While North Carolina doesn’t have a separate tribal AAA system, resources are available for Native American seniors:

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians:

• Operates their own aging services program
• Provides nutrition, transportation, and support services
• Contact: 828-497-6987

Other Tribal Resources:

• Lumbee Tribe Senior Citizens Program
• Native Elder Service Locator through Administration for Community Living
• Local AAAs serve tribal members and work to provide culturally appropriate services

How to Access Services

Step 1: Call the Statewide Information Line

Dial 2-1-1 from anywhere in North Carolina. NC 211 is available 24/7/365 in multiple languages and can connect you with your local AAA and other aging services. Live staff are typically available during business hours, with automated systems providing basic information after hours.

Step 2: Initial Consultation

AAA staff will conduct an initial consultation to understand your needs and situation. They’ll ask about:

• Your age, living situation, and location
• What type of assistance you’re seeking
• Any immediate or urgent needs
• Basic information about your resources and support system
• Health and functional status (for some services)

Step 3: Needs Assessment (When Required)

For ongoing services like case management or CAP waiver programs, a more detailed assessment may be necessary. This assessment may be conducted:

• Over the phone for simple services
• At the AAA office or partner agency
• In your home for complex situations or mobility limitations

The assessment evaluates your:

• Physical and cognitive abilities
• Safety and living environment
• Social support network
• Financial resources and insurance coverage
• Service preferences and goals

Step 4: Service Plan Development

Based on your assessment, AAA staff will:

• Explain available services and eligibility requirements
• Help you apply for appropriate programs and benefits
• Develop a service plan that meets your needs and preferences
• Make referrals to local service providers
• Schedule services and follow-up appointments

Step 5: Ongoing Support and Monitoring

AAAs provide continuing support through:

• Regular contact with case managers for ongoing services
• Annual reassessments for waiver program participants
• Assistance accessing new services as needs change
• Problem-solving when service issues arise
• Advocacy on your behalf with service providers

Costs and Financial Assistance

Free Services

These services are available at no cost to eligible participants:

• Information and assistance services
• Long-term care options counseling
• Legal consultations and brief services
• Benefits counseling and application assistance
• Most case management services

Donation-Based Services

These services typically request voluntary donations but cannot deny services for inability to pay:

• Congregate meals ($3-6 suggested donation)
• Home-delivered meals ($3-7 suggested donation per meal)
• Transportation services ($2-5 suggested donation per trip)
• Some educational and support programs

Income-Based Services

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

• Extensive case management for private pay clients
• Some home care services not covered by insurance
• Adult day programs (depending on provider)
• Home modification services

Insurance and Medicaid Coverage

Many services can be covered through:

• Medicaid (including CAP waiver and other home and community services)
• Medicare (for medically necessary services)
• Private insurance and long-term care insurance
• Veterans benefits and services
• Other federal and state programs

Financial Reality: Even free services operate with limited funding, which means:

• Some services may have waiting lists
• You may need to wait for openings in popular programs
• Services may be reduced during budget constraints
• Voluntary donations help programs serve more people and maintain quality

Quality Assurance and Your Rights

Program Oversight

All North Carolina AAAs must meet state and federal standards for:

• Staff qualifications and ongoing training requirements
• Service quality standards and performance measures
• Financial accountability and audit requirements
• Non-discrimination and civil rights compliance
• Confidentiality and privacy protections

Monitoring and Accountability

AAAs are monitored and evaluated by:

• The North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services
• Federal Administration for Community Living
• Independent financial auditors
• Regional Advisory Councils with consumer representation
• Local Councils of Government boards

Complaint and Appeal Process

If you have concerns about services or treatment:

1. Address issues with your service provider first – Many problems can be resolved quickly through direct communication
2. Contact your local AAA director – Each AAA has procedures for handling complaints and resolving service issues
3. Call the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services – 919-855-3400 for state-level review and intervention
4. Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman – For issues in nursing homes, adult care homes, or family care homes

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, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics
• Have your personal information kept confidential and secure
• Participate in decisions about your care and services
• Receive services that meet professional standards and safety requirements
• File complaints or appeals without fear of retaliation
• Be informed about your rights and responsibilities

Resources by Region

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the difference between an AAA and the Division of Aging and Adult Services?

The North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) is the state agency that oversees aging policy and funding statewide. The 16 Area Agencies on Aging are regional organizations that actually plan, coordinate, and deliver services in local communities. Think of DAAS as the state headquarters and AAAs as the local branches that know your community’s specific needs and resources.

Can I get help if I live in a small town or rural area?

Yes, but services may be more limited and require more planning. North Carolina’s AAAs are specifically designed to serve rural communities, and many have developed creative solutions like mobile services, volunteer driver programs, and partnerships with faith communities. You may need to travel further for some services or wait longer for transportation, but help is available.

What happens if I need nursing home care but want to stay home?

North Carolina’s Community Alternatives Program (CAP) may be able to help. If you’re eligible for Medicaid and need nursing home level care, CAP can provide services in your home including personal care, adult day programs, home modifications, and family caregiver support. Contact your local AAA to learn about CAP and start the application process.

Are there services for family members who are caregivers?

Absolutely. North Carolina recognizes that family caregivers need support too. AAAs provide caregiver education, support groups, counseling, respite care, and sometimes limited financial assistance for caregiving expenses. The North Carolina Lifespan Respite Care Program specifically helps family caregivers access temporary relief services.

How do I know if my local AAA is doing a good job?

All AAAs must meet state performance standards and undergo regular monitoring. You can ask about their performance measures, request information about client satisfaction surveys, or contact the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services at 919-855-3400 if you have concerns about service quality.

What if I’m under 60 but have a disability?

Many AAA services are available to people with disabilities regardless of age. Services like information and assistance, case management, and some home and community services don’t have age restrictions. However, some programs funded specifically under the Older Americans Act are limited to people 60 and older.

Do I have to be poor to qualify for services?

No. Information and assistance services are available to anyone. Many other services are available regardless of income, though some may ask for voluntary donations. Services requiring Medicaid (like CAP waiver services) do have income and asset limits, but these limits are higher than regular Medicaid and some people can qualify even with moderate incomes.

What if my local AAA doesn’t have the service I need?

AAAs are required to help you find services even if they don’t provide them directly. They maintain comprehensive resource databases and can refer you to other agencies, private providers, or specialized programs. They may also be able to advocate for new services if there’s unmet need in your community.

How are services different in North Carolina compared to other states?

North Carolina’s unique structure places AAAs within regional Councils of Government, which can provide additional resources and coordination. The state also has a strong emphasis on rural service delivery and has developed innovative programs like mobile services and volunteer networks. However, like many states, North Carolina faces challenges with funding limitations and workforce shortages in some areas.

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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 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:

• NC 211: Dial 2-1-1
• North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services: 919-855-3400
• Your local Area Agency on Aging

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About This Guide

Researched and Compiled by Grants for Seniors

This guide has been meticulously 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 services and grant opportunities.

Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (HHS, Administration for Community Living), North Carolina state government departments, official AAA documentation, and verified nonprofit organization resources.

Verification Process: Each program listing undergoes thorough verification by cross-referencing information across multiple official sources, checking current program status, verifying contact information, and confirming eligibility requirements and service availability.

Information Currency:
• Last Updated: January 2026
• Sources Verified: January 2026
• Next Review: April 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 services and financial assistance programs.