Area Agencies on Aging in Oregon

Complete Guide to Area Agencies on Aging in Oregon (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:

• Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC): 1-855-ORE-ADRC (1-855-673-2372) – Statewide connection to local services
• Oregon Adult Protective Services: 1-855-503-SAFE (1-855-503-7233) – Report elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 – Free, confidential support
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 – Mental health crisis support
• Oregon Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 – State-specific mental health crisis support

For immediate food assistance:

• Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for emergency food programs
• Oregon 2-1-1 – Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency resources

Key Takeaways

• Oregon has Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serving all 36 counties across the state
• All services are free or low-cost for seniors 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• Call 1-855-ORE-ADRC (1-855-673-2372) to connect with your local AAA and services
• Each AAA operates an Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) – your single entry point for information
• No income requirements for basic information and assistance services
• Most AAAs coordinate home-delivered meals, transportation, legal help, and Medicare counseling
• Oregon Project Independence and APD Waiver programs can help you stay in your home instead of moving to a nursing facility
• Oregon emphasizes self-direction and consumer choice in long-term care services

What Are Area Agencies on Aging?

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are regional organizations that coordinate and provide essential services for older adults and people with disabilities. Created under the federal Older Americans Act in 1973, these agencies serve as the coordination center of Oregon’s aging services network.

Oregon’s AAAs function as both direct service providers and coordinators, adapting to the state’s diverse geography from the Pacific Coast to the Cascade Mountains to high desert regions. Each AAA covers multiple counties and works closely with Oregon’s innovative healthcare delivery system through Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs).

All Oregon AAAs operate as Aging & Disability Resource Connections (ADRCs), providing streamlined access to information about aging, disability, and long-term care services. This means you can contact any AAA for help, and they’ll either assist you directly or connect you with appropriate resources.

The Oregon Department of Human Services, Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) division, oversees AAAs statewide and provides funding through federal, state, and local sources. Oregon is known for its person-centered approach to long-term care, emphasizing consumer choice and self-direction.

Oregon’s AAAs are particularly innovative in integrating with the state’s Medicaid system and coordinating with Coordinated Care Organizations to provide comprehensive, seamless care for seniors and people with disabilities.

Oregon’s Area Agencies on Aging: Regional Directory

Oregon’s AAA structure varies by region, with some counties served by councils of governments, others by private nonprofits, and some by county government departments. Here are the major regional AAAs:

Note: Oregon’s AAA structure includes additional regional and county-specific organizations. Contact 1-855-ORE-ADRC for your specific local AAA.

Core Services Provided by Oregon AAAs

Information and Assistance

Every AAA provides free information and assistance through the ADRC system to help you navigate Oregon’s aging and disability services. Staff members are trained to answer questions about:

• Available programs and services in your area
• Eligibility requirements for different programs
• How to apply for benefits and services including Oregon Health Plan
• Referrals to other agencies and organizations
• Benefits counseling for Medicare, Medicaid, and other programs
• Long-term care options counseling

This service is available to anyone who calls, regardless of age, income, or situation. Oregon’s ADRC system is designed to be a “no wrong door” approach to accessing services.

Nutrition Programs

Oregon AAAs coordinate comprehensive nutrition programs that address food insecurity while promoting social connections and health education.

Congregate Meals: Nutritious meals served at senior centers, community centers, churches, and other gathering places throughout Oregon. These programs provide vital social interaction and often include nutrition education and wellness activities. 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 leaving their homes, AAAs coordinate meal delivery programs throughout the state. Services include hot meals, frozen meals, and special diet accommodations. Delivery frequency varies from daily to several times per week depending on location and need.

Nutrition Education: Many AAAs provide classes on healthy eating, cooking for one or two people, managing special diets, and food safety for seniors.

Transportation Services

Transportation services vary significantly across Oregon’s diverse geography, from urban Portland areas to rural eastern Oregon counties. AAAs coordinate various transportation options:

Medical Transportation: Priority service for getting to medical appointments, including coordination with Oregon’s healthcare delivery system and Coordinated Care Organizations. Some programs provide door-to-door service, others coordinate with public transit.

General Transportation: Scheduled transportation for essential trips like grocery shopping, banking, pharmacy visits, and social activities. Urban areas typically have more frequent service than rural regions.

Transportation Vouchers: Some AAAs provide vouchers for use with local taxi services, ride-sharing programs, or public transit for eligible seniors.

Oregon Reality Check: Transportation services are limited in rural counties and may require significant advance planning. Weather conditions can impact service availability, especially in mountainous areas and eastern Oregon during winter.

Legal Assistance

AAAs coordinate free legal services for seniors 60+ in civil matters that affect their health, safety, and economic well-being. Common legal issues include:

• Medicare and Oregon Health Plan problems and appeals
• Social Security and disability benefit issues
• Housing problems and landlord-tenant disputes
• Consumer protection from scams and fraud
• Basic estate planning (wills, advance directives)
• Public benefit applications and appeals
• Healthcare decision-making and medical directives

Legal assistance is provided by staff attorneys or volunteer lawyers and may include advice, consultations, document preparation, and limited representation.

Medicare and Insurance Counseling (SHIP)

Oregon’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free, unbiased counseling through AAAs and trained volunteers. Services include:

• Medicare enrollment assistance and plan comparisons
• Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan reviews
• Medicare Part D prescription drug plan selection
• Medicare Advantage plan evaluations
• Help resolving billing problems and claim denials
• Coordination with Oregon Health Plan benefits

This counseling is completely unbiased – counselors don’t sell insurance and provide objective guidance based on individual needs.

Case Management and Care Coordination

For seniors with complex needs, AAAs provide case management services that coordinate with Oregon’s integrated healthcare delivery system:

• Comprehensive assessment using standardized Oregon tools
• Development of person-centered service plans
• Connection to appropriate services and benefits
• Coordination with Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs)
• Ongoing monitoring and plan adjustments
• Advocacy with service providers and agencies

Family Caregiver Support

Oregon AAAs operate National Family Caregiver Support Programs with innovative approaches to supporting family caregivers:

Information and Education: Training on caregiving techniques, stress management, understanding chronic conditions, and navigating Oregon’s service system.

Counseling and Support Groups: Individual counseling and peer support groups, including virtual support groups through programs like Oregon Care Partners.

Respite Care: Temporary care services that provide family caregivers with breaks, including in-home companions, adult day programs, or short-term facility care.

Supplemental Services: Limited funding for services not covered elsewhere, such as home modifications, assistive devices, or emergency response systems.

Oregon Medicaid Waiver Programs Through AAAs

Oregon offers several innovative Medicaid programs that help eligible seniors and people with disabilities receive care in their homes instead of nursing facilities. AAAs often serve as entry points and coordinators for these programs.

Aged and Physically Disabled (APD) Waiver

The APD Waiver is Oregon’s primary home and community-based services program for seniors and adults with physical disabilities.

Services Include:

• Case management and transition services
• Personal care services
• Homemaker services
• Adult day health programs
• Assistive technology and home modifications
• Transportation for medical appointments
• Skilled nursing services in the home

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) eligible
• Age 18+ with physical disability or age 65+
• Must need nursing facility level of care
• Financial limits: $2,000 in countable assets, income under $2,901/month (2025)
• Must choose to receive services at home/community instead of nursing facility

Reality Check: The APD Waiver is designed primarily for transitions from institutional care back to community settings. Oregon prioritizes community-based care over institutional care.

Oregon Project Independence – Medicaid (OPI-M)

Oregon recently expanded its successful Oregon Project Independence program to include Medicaid funding through an innovative 1115 waiver.

How It Works:

• Provides limited in-home services to help people remain independent
• Includes family caregiver support services
• Uses a flexible, person-centered approach
• Coordinated through AAAs with Medicaid funding

Services Include:

• Chore services and light housekeeping
• Personal care assistance
• Home modifications and safety improvements
• Caregiver training and support
• Care coordination

Consumer-Employed Provider Program (CEP)

Oregon’s CEP program allows Medicaid recipients to hire and manage their own personal care providers.

Key Features:

• Participants can hire family members as paid caregivers
• Flexible scheduling based on individual needs
• Training and support provided to participants
• Financial management services available

Independent Choices Program (ICP)

This self-direction program provides monthly cash assistance to participants who can then hire their own care providers.

Benefits:

• Maximum flexibility in choosing and managing care
• Can hire family members including spouses and adult children
• Participants control their own schedules and care routines
• Supports aging in place with dignity and choice

Special Population Services

Urban Seniors (Portland Metro Area)

Oregon’s largest metropolitan area offers comprehensive services with unique urban challenges and advantages:

Urban-Specific Services:

• Extensive public transportation coordination
• Diverse cultural and language-specific programs
• Higher concentration of medical specialists and services
• More volunteer opportunities and social programs
• Coordination with multiple healthcare systems

Challenges:

• Higher cost of living and housing
• Complex transportation systems
• Urban safety concerns
• More competition for limited affordable housing

Rural Seniors

Oregon’s rural counties face significant challenges in service delivery due to geography, weather, and population density:

Rural-Specific Adaptations:

• Mobile service delivery and outreach programs
• Volunteer networks covering vast distances
• Coordination with critical access hospitals
• Seasonal service adjustments for weather
• Technology solutions including telehealth coordination

Challenges to Expect:

• Limited service provider availability
• Long distances to medical care and services
• Weather-related service interruptions
• Limited internet and cell phone coverage in some areas
• Seasonal access issues in mountain communities

Coastal Communities

Oregon’s coastal communities have unique considerations related to geography, weather, and seasonal population changes:

Coastal-Specific Services:

• Weather-related emergency planning
• Coordination with tourist season service demands
• Tsunami and emergency preparedness
• Coordination with tribal communities
• Seasonal transportation adjustments

Farm and Agricultural Communities

Oregon’s agricultural regions require specialized understanding of farming lifestyles and seasonal work patterns:

Agricultural-Specific Services:

• Understanding of seasonal income patterns
• Coordination with agricultural safety programs
• Support for aging in place on rural properties
• Assistance with farm succession planning
• Coordination with migrant worker programs

Native American Seniors

Oregon has nine federally recognized tribes, and AAAs coordinate with tribal aging programs:

Tribal-Specific Coordination:

• Partnerships with tribal aging programs
• Cultural competency training for service providers
• Coordination with Indian Health Service facilities
• Respect for traditional healing practices
• Tribal liaison positions in some AAAs

Key Tribal Resources:

• Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
• Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation
• Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde
• Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
• Burns Paiute Tribe
• Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians
• Coquille Indian Tribe
• Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians
• Klamath Tribes

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Oregon AAAs work to ensure LGBTQ+ seniors feel welcome and safe when accessing services:

What to Expect:

• Inclusive policies and non-discrimination protections
• Staff training on LGBTQ+ cultural competency
• Partnerships with LGBTQ+ organizations, especially in urban areas
• Safe space designations at some senior centers
• Support groups for LGBTQ+ seniors in some regions

How to Access Services

Step 1: Call the Statewide ADRC Number

Dial 1-855-ORE-ADRC (1-855-673-2372) from anywhere in Oregon. This toll-free number connects you to your local ADRC and AAA based on your location. Service is typically available Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM.

Step 2: Initial Information Gathering

ADRC staff will ask questions about:

• Your location and contact information
• What type of assistance you’re seeking
• Your current living situation and support system
• Whether you have urgent needs requiring immediate attention
• Basic information about your resources and health insurance

This conversation helps staff understand your situation and determine the best way to assist you.

Step 3: Assessment (If Needed)

For ongoing services, you may need a more detailed assessment:

• Phone assessment for information and referral services
• In-person assessment at AAA offices or community locations
• Home visits for complex care coordination
• Standardized assessment tools used statewide

Assessments evaluate your functional abilities, safety concerns, support system, and service preferences using Oregon’s person-centered planning approach.

Step 4: Service Coordination

Based on your assessment, AAA staff will:

• Explain available services in your specific area
• Help you apply for relevant benefits including Oregon Health Plan
• Make referrals to local service providers
• Coordinate with your Coordinated Care Organization if applicable
• Develop person-centered service plans for complex situations

Step 5: Ongoing Support

AAAs provide continued support through:

• Regular check-ins and reassessments
• Help accessing new services as needs change
• Advocacy when problems arise with service providers
• Coordination with healthcare providers and CCOs

Costs and Financial Assistance

Free Services

These services are available at no cost to eligible participants:

• Information and assistance through ADRC
• Benefits counseling (Medicare, Oregon Health Plan, Social Security)
• Legal consultations for seniors 60+
• Case management and care coordination
• ADRC options counseling

Donation-Based Services

These services have suggested donations but cannot turn away those unable to pay:

• Congregate meals ($3-6 suggested donation)
• Transportation ($3-8 suggested donation depending on distance)
• Home-delivered meals ($3-6 suggested donation per meal)

Income-Based Services

Some services use sliding fee scales based on income:

• In-home care services
• Adult day programs
• Respite care services
• Home modification assistance

Insurance and Medicaid Coverage

Many services can be covered by:

• Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) including waiver programs
• Medicare (for medically necessary services)
• Private insurance coordinated through CCOs
• Veterans benefits
• Other federal and state programs

Oregon Financial Reality: Oregon’s emphasis on community-based care means:

• More services available through Medicaid than many states
• Strong coordination between funding sources
• Emphasis on preventing more costly institutional care
• Innovation in payment models through CCOs

Quality and Accountability

Program Standards

All AAAs must meet federal and state standards for:

• Staff qualifications and ongoing training
• Service quality and safety protocols
• Person-centered planning requirements
• Financial management and accountability
• Non-discrimination and accessibility policies

Oversight and Monitoring

AAAs are monitored by:

• Oregon Department of Human Services, APD Division
• Federal Administration for Community Living
• Independent financial auditors
• Local advisory councils and consumer input
• Coordinated Care Organizations for Medicaid services

Complaint Process

If you have concerns about services:

1. Talk to your service provider first – Many issues can be resolved directly
2. Contact the AAA director – Each AAA has procedures for handling complaints
3. Call APD Division – 503-945-5811 for state-level review
4. Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman – Available through AAAs for facility-related complaints
5. File complaints with CCOs – For Medicaid-covered services

Your Rights

As a service recipient, you have the right to:

• Be treated with dignity and respect regardless of background
• Receive person-centered, culturally appropriate services
• Have your personal information kept confidential
• Participate in decisions about your care and services
• File complaints without fear of retaliation
• Receive services that meet established quality standards

Resources by Region

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does Oregon’s healthcare system integration affect AAA services?

Oregon’s innovative use of Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs) means AAA services are often coordinated with your healthcare plan. This integration can provide more seamless care and better coordination between medical and social services, though it may also mean navigating different systems.

What makes Oregon’s approach to long-term care different from other states?

Oregon emphasizes consumer choice and self-direction more than most states. Programs like the Independent Choices Program and Consumer-Employed Provider Program allow individuals to hire and manage their own caregivers, including family members. Oregon also has a strong preference for community-based care over institutional care.

Can I access services if I’m new to Oregon or move between counties?

Yes, though you’ll need to contact your new local AAA/ADRC to reestablish services. Oregon’s statewide approach means assessments and service plans can often be transferred, but each AAA operates somewhat differently based on local resources and needs.

How does Oregon Project Independence – Medicaid (OPI-M) differ from regular Medicaid services?

OPI-M is an innovative program that provides more flexible, lower-level services to help people remain independent before they need intensive Medicaid services. It includes family caregiver support and uses a more flexible approach to service delivery than traditional Medicaid programs.

What services are available for family caregivers in Oregon?

Oregon has robust family caregiver support including the Oregon Care Partners program, respite services, caregiver training, support groups, and through OPI-M, direct services to support family caregivers. Some programs allow family members to be hired as paid caregivers.

How do AAAs coordinate with Oregon’s Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs)?

AAAs work closely with CCOs to coordinate medical and social services. If you’re enrolled in a CCO for your Oregon Health Plan benefits, your AAA can help coordinate between medical care and community services, potentially reducing duplication and improving care coordination.

Are services available in languages other than English?

Yes, Oregon AAAs provide interpretation services and some have bilingual staff. Spanish interpretation is most commonly available, but other languages can be arranged. There’s no charge for interpretation services, and culturally specific programs exist in some areas.

What happens during severe weather events like ice storms or wildfires?

Oregon AAAs have emergency protocols and work with local emergency management. They may provide emergency shelters, priority services for vulnerable seniors, welfare checks, and coordinate with evacuation plans. Climate change has increased focus on emergency preparedness for seniors.

Can I get services if I’m seasonal resident or snowbird?

Services are primarily for Oregon residents, but AAAs can provide information and assistance to seasonal residents. Some services may be available on a limited basis, and AAAs can help coordinate care with services in your other state of residence.

How does marijuana legalization affect AAA services and policies?

Oregon AAAs operate under federal funding rules, so marijuana use may affect some services or housing options. However, AAAs can provide information about legal medical marijuana programs and help navigate any conflicts between state and federal policies affecting your care.

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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:

• Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon: 1-855-ORE-ADRC (1-855-673-2372)
• Oregon Department of Human Services, APD Division: 503-945-5811
• 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 assistance.

Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (HHS, ACL, CMS), Oregon state government departments, official program 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.

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 assistance programs.