Area Agencies on Aging in Pennsylvania

Complete Guide to Area Agencies on Aging in Pennsylvania (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:

• PA Link: 1-800-753-8827 – Statewide resource connection line
• Elder Abuse Hotline: 1-800-490-8505 – 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

For immediate food assistance:

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

Key Takeaways

• Pennsylvania has 52 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serving all 67 counties across the commonwealth
• All basic services are free or low-cost for seniors 60+ and people with disabilities of any age
• Call PA Link at 1-800-753-8827 to connect with your local AAA and available services
• Each AAA provides comprehensive assessments to determine your needs and service eligibility
• No income requirements for basic information and assistance services
• Most AAAs coordinate meal programs, transportation, legal assistance, and Medicare counseling
• The OPTIONS program provides in-home care services to help you stay independent
• PACE and PACENET offer the nation’s most generous prescription assistance programs

What Are Area Agencies on Aging?

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

Your local AAA functions as a resource hub and service coordinator. Rather than simply providing direct services, they assess community needs, develop strategic plans, contract with service providers, and ensure quality care delivery throughout their designated areas. Each AAA serves specific counties and collaborates with local nonprofits, government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations.

Pennsylvania’s 52 AAAs make the commonwealth unique in having the most localized aging network in the nation. This structure ensures services are tailored to specific regional needs and cultural preferences. The Pennsylvania Department of Aging oversees all AAAs and distributes funding from federal, state, and lottery sources.

Under the state’s “Aging Our Way, PA” 10-year strategic plan, AAAs have implemented the Comprehensive Agency Performance Evaluation (CAPE) system to enhance service quality and accountability. This initiative demonstrates Pennsylvania’s commitment to continuously improving services for its 3.4 million residents aged 60 and older.

Pennsylvania’s 52 Area Agencies on Aging: Complete Directory

Note: Contact information may change. Always verify current details by calling PA Link at 1-800-753-8827.

Core Services Provided by Pennsylvania AAAs

Information and Assistance

Every AAA provides free information and assistance through PA Link to help you navigate available resources and connect with appropriate services. Trained specialists can answer questions about:

• Available programs and services in your specific area
• Eligibility requirements for various programs
• Application processes for benefits and services
• Referrals to other agencies and community organizations
• Benefits counseling for Medicare, Medical Assistance, and Social Security

This service is available to anyone who calls, regardless of age, income, or eligibility for other programs.

Nutrition Programs

Pennsylvania AAAs operate extensive nutrition programs addressing food insecurity while promoting socialization and wellness among older adults.

Congregate Meals: Nutritious meals served at senior centers, community centers, faith-based organizations, and other gathering places. These programs offer more than nutrition – they provide social interaction, health education, and connections to other services. Meals typically cost $3-5 for seniors 60+, though voluntary donations are accepted and no one is turned away for inability to pay.

Home-Delivered Meals: For seniors who cannot safely prepare meals or get to congregate meal sites, AAAs coordinate home-delivered meal programs. Volunteers or drivers deliver hot or frozen meals directly to your home, typically 1-5 days per week depending on need and funding. Priority goes to seniors who are homebound, isolated, or at nutritional risk.

Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program: Many AAAs distribute vouchers allowing eligible seniors to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at participating farmers markets throughout Pennsylvania’s growing season.

Transportation Services

Transportation barriers often prevent seniors from accessing healthcare, shopping, and social activities. Pennsylvania AAAs address this challenge through diverse transportation programs:

Medical Transportation: Priority transportation for medical appointments, dialysis treatments, physical therapy, and other health-related trips. Services range from AAA-operated vehicles with trained drivers to contracted taxi services and volunteer driver programs.

General Transportation: Scheduled transportation for shopping, banking, pharmacy visits, and other essential errands. Service frequency varies significantly between urban and rural areas, with cities typically offering more regular schedules.

Specialized Transportation: Some AAAs provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and transportation for specific populations, such as veterans traveling to VA medical centers.

Important Note: Transportation services often have waiting lists, particularly in rural areas. You typically need to schedule rides 3-7 days in advance, and emergency transportation is limited.

Legal Assistance

AAAs provide free legal assistance for seniors 60+ in civil matters affecting their health, safety, and economic security. Common legal issues include:

• Medicare and Medical Assistance problems
• Social Security and disability benefit appeals
• Housing issues (landlord-tenant disputes, foreclosure prevention)
• Consumer protection (scams, fraud, identity theft)
• Basic estate planning (wills, advance directives, power of attorney)
• Family law matters affecting seniors
• Public benefit applications and appeals

Legal services are provided by staff attorneys and volunteer lawyers through programs like the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Senior Law Initiative.

Medicare and Insurance Counseling (APPRISE)

Pennsylvania’s APPRISE program provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling through trained volunteers. Services include:

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

APPRISE counselors receive extensive training and have no financial interest in your insurance decisions, ensuring completely objective advice.

Care Management and OPTIONS Program

For seniors with complex needs, AAAs provide care management services through the OPTIONS program (also known as “Help at Home”). This comprehensive program helps seniors remain independent in their homes by providing:

Personal Care Services: Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and medication management.

Homemaker Services: Light housekeeping, meal preparation, laundry, and grocery shopping.

Adult Day Services: Supervised care and activities for seniors with functional impairments, including those with dementia.

Respite Care: Temporary relief for family caregivers through in-home companions or adult day programs.

Emergency Services: Life-sustaining supplies, emergency meals, and temporary shelter during crises.

Home Health Services: Skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.

Home Modifications: Ramps, grab bars, stair lifts, and other modifications to improve safety and accessibility.

Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS): Medical alert systems for seniors living alone.

Family Caregiver Support

Pennsylvania AAAs operate robust Family Caregiver Support Programs recognizing that family members provide 80% of long-term care. Services include:

PA CareKit: A comprehensive caregiver toolkit launched in 2025 providing resources, training materials, and support information for Pennsylvania’s 1.5 million unpaid caregivers.

Education and Training: Workshops on caregiving techniques, managing chronic conditions, understanding Medicare benefits, and stress management.

Support Groups: Peer support groups facilitated by social workers, available both in-person and virtually.

Respite Care: Temporary care services allowing family caregivers essential breaks from caregiving responsibilities.

Counseling Services: Individual and family counseling to address the emotional challenges of caregiving.

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

Pennsylvania’s Unique Prescription Assistance Programs

PACE and PACENET Programs

Pennsylvania operates the nation’s most generous state prescription assistance programs, PACE and PACENET, which offer low-cost prescription medication to qualified residents, age 65 and older.

PACE Eligibility (2026):

• Must be 65+ years old
• Pennsylvania resident for minimum 90 days
• Annual income under $14,500 for individuals, $17,700 for married couples
• Cannot receive Medicaid prescription benefits

PACENET Eligibility (2026):

• Must be 65+ years old
• Pennsylvania resident for minimum 90 days
• Annual income $14,501-$33,500 for individuals, $17,701-$41,500 for married couples
• Cannot receive Medicaid prescription benefits

Benefits:

• PACE: $6 generic copay, $9 brand name copay
• PACENET: $8 generic copay, $15 brand name copay
• No premiums or monthly fees
• Works with Medicare Part D and other insurance
• Covers most prescription medications, including insulin and diabetic supplies

How to Apply:

• Online at the PACE website
• Call 1-800-225-7223
• Mail application to PACE/PACENET, PO Box 8806, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8806
• Visit your local AAA for application assistance

Note: These programs are funded through the Pennsylvania Lottery and serve over 300,000 Pennsylvanians annually.

Special Population Services

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Pennsylvania AAAs strive to create welcoming, inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ seniors. While services aren’t specifically LGBTQ+-designated, all AAAs follow non-discrimination policies.

What to Expect:

• Staff training on cultural competency and LGBTQ+ issues
• Non-discriminatory service delivery regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity
• Confidential services with respect for chosen families and relationships
• If discrimination occurs, contact the AAA director or Pennsylvania Department of Aging

Resources:

• LGBT Elder Initiative of Philadelphia: (215) 800-5926
• SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline: 1-877-360-LGBT (5428)
• Local PFLAG chapters often provide senior-specific programming

Veteran Seniors

Pennsylvania serves approximately 800,000 veterans, many of whom are seniors. AAAs coordinate closely with the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and VA Medical Centers.

Veteran-Specific Services:

• Assistance applying for VA benefits and healthcare enrollment
• Transportation to VA medical appointments and facilities
• Help with VA pension and disability claim applications
• Connection to Veterans-Directed Home and Community-Based Services
• Coordination with County Veterans Service Officers
• Honor guard and burial benefit assistance

Key Resources:

• Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs: (717) 861-8910
• County Veterans Service Officers in all 67 counties
• VA Medical Centers in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Lebanon, Wilkes-Barre, and Coatesville
• Veterans Crisis Line: 988 (Press 1)

Disabled Seniors and Adults

All Pennsylvania AAAs serve people with disabilities regardless of age, following the principles of independent living and community integration.

Disability-Specific Services:

• Assistive technology assessments and training
• Home modifications for accessibility and safety
• Wheelchair-accessible transportation options
• Independent living skills training and support
• Benefits counseling for disability-related programs
• Advocacy for disability rights and accommodations

Important Note: If you acquire a disability after age 60, you may be eligible for services through both aging and disability service systems. AAA staff can help coordinate these services.

Rural Seniors and Families

Rural seniors face unique challenges including geographic isolation, limited transportation options, and fewer service providers. Pennsylvania’s AAAs adapt their service delivery models to meet rural needs:

Rural-Specific Adaptations:

• Mobile service delivery bringing services directly to homes
• Extended volunteer driver programs for long-distance medical trips
• Telehealth and telephone-based services
• Strong partnerships with faith-based organizations and volunteer groups
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate agricultural and seasonal work patterns
• Group purchasing programs for medications and supplies

Challenges to Expect:

• Longer wait times for in-home services
• Limited transportation frequency and destinations
• Fewer congregate meal sites requiring longer travel
• Limited high-speed internet access for virtual services
• Difficulty recruiting and retaining service providers

How to Access Services

Step 1: Call PA Link

Dial 1-800-753-8827 from anywhere in Pennsylvania. This statewide number connects you to aging and disability resources. PA Link operates Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM, with 24/7 automated assistance for basic information.

Step 2: Initial Assessment

PA Link staff will conduct a preliminary assessment covering:

• Your age and county of residence
• Type of assistance you’re seeking
• Current living situation and safety concerns
• Immediate or urgent needs
• Basic income information (for income-based programs)
• Insurance coverage (Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance)

This conversation typically takes 15-20 minutes and helps staff determine the best resources for your situation.

Step 3: Local AAA Connection

Based on your location and needs, you’ll be connected to your local AAA for:

• More detailed assessments if needed
• Service applications and enrollment
• Care plan development
• Ongoing case management
• Regular follow-up and support

Step 4: Comprehensive Assessment (If Needed)

For ongoing services like OPTIONS program or care management, you may need a comprehensive assessment conducted:

• By phone for simple service requests
• In person at the AAA office
• In your home for complex situations or mobility issues

Assessments evaluate:

• Physical and cognitive functioning
• Safety risks and environmental concerns
• Social support systems and family involvement
• Financial resources and insurance coverage
• Service preferences and cultural considerations
• Caregiver needs and stress levels

Step 5: Service Planning and Implementation

Following assessment, AAA staff will:

• Explain all available services and programs
• Help complete applications for relevant benefits
• Develop a personalized care plan if appropriate
• Arrange service connections and referrals
• Schedule ongoing services and supports
• Provide emergency contact information

Step 6: Ongoing Support and Monitoring

Pennsylvania AAAs provide continuous support through:

• Regular check-ins with care managers
• Annual reassessments for OPTIONS program participants
• Assistance accessing new services as needs change
• Advocacy when service problems arise
• Emergency response during crises

Costs and Financial Assistance

Free Services

These services are available at no cost to all eligible participants:

• Information and assistance through PA Link
• APPRISE Medicare counseling
• Legal consultations and brief services
• Care management and assessments
• Family caregiver support and education
• Emergency assistance during crises

Suggested Donation Services

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

• Congregate meals ($3-5 suggested donation)
• Transportation services ($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 income and assets:

• OPTIONS program in-home services
• Adult day services
• Respite care services
• Home modifications and assistive devices

Insurance and Public Program Coverage

Many services can be covered through:

• Medical Assistance (Medicaid)
• Medicare (for medically necessary services)
• Private insurance and Medicare supplements
• Veterans Administration benefits
• Other federal and state assistance programs

Financial Reality: Even free services face funding limitations, which means:

• Waiting lists exist for popular services
• Service levels may be reduced during budget constraints
• You may receive fewer hours than preferred
• Voluntary donations help programs serve more people and maintain quality

Quality Assurance and Accountability

Program Standards and Oversight

All Pennsylvania AAAs must meet rigorous federal and state standards including:

• Staff qualifications, training, and continuing education requirements
• Service quality standards and safety protocols
• Financial management and audit requirements
• Non-discrimination and civil rights compliance
• Confidentiality and privacy protections

Monitoring and Evaluation

AAAs undergo regular monitoring through:

• The Pennsylvania Department of Aging’s CAPE (Comprehensive Agency Performance Evaluation) system
• Federal Administration for Community Living reviews
• Independent financial and programmatic audits
• Consumer satisfaction surveys and feedback
• Local advisory council oversight

Complaint Resolution Process

If you have concerns about AAA services:

1. Address issues with your service provider first – Many problems can be resolved quickly at the direct service level
2. Contact your AAA director – Each AAA has formal complaint procedures and consumer rights policies
3. Call the Pennsylvania Department of Aging – (717) 783-1550 for state-level review and investigation
4. Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman – 1-800-753-8827 for nursing home, assisted living, and personal care home complaints

Your Rights as a Service Consumer

As someone receiving AAA services, you have the right to:

• Be treated with dignity, respect, and cultural sensitivity
• Receive services without discrimination based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability
• Have your personal and health information kept confidential
• Participate in all decisions about your care and services
• File complaints without fear of retaliation or service reduction
• Receive services that meet established professional standards
• Be informed about service costs, limitations, and alternatives

Resources by Pennsylvania Region

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I qualify for the OPTIONS program in Pennsylvania?

The OPTIONS program serves Pennsylvania residents age 60+ who need assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, or meal preparation to remain safely at home. There are no strict income limits, but you may be required to contribute toward service costs based on your income level. Your local AAA will conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine your functional needs and develop an appropriate care plan. Even if you don’t qualify for OPTIONS, other services may be available to help you.

What makes Pennsylvania’s prescription assistance different from other states?

Pennsylvania’s PACE and PACENET programs are unique because they’re funded entirely by the state lottery rather than requiring federal matching funds, allowing more generous benefits. Unlike most state programs, you don’t need to enroll in Medicare Part D to participate, though doing so can save you even more money. The programs cover virtually all prescription medications, have no premiums, and offer some of the lowest copayments in the nation. Pennsylvania also provides the PACE Clearinghouse for people who don’t qualify for the main programs.

Can I get services from multiple AAAs if I split time between counties?

No, you can only receive ongoing services from the AAA in your primary county of residence. However, if you spend significant time in multiple counties (such as seasonal residents), you should establish services with the AAA where you spend the majority of your time. Emergency services and information/assistance are available from any AAA. If you permanently move to a different county, you’ll need to transfer your services, though your assessment information can typically be shared to expedite the process.

How long are the waiting lists for Pennsylvania AAA services?

Waiting times vary significantly by service type, location, and funding availability. Information and assistance services are typically available immediately. Congregate meals and transportation may start within 1-2 weeks. The OPTIONS program (in-home services) may have waiting lists of 2-6 months depending on your county and level of need. Emergency services are prioritized for immediate response. Rural areas often have longer waits due to provider shortages, while urban areas may have more immediate availability but higher demand.

What happens to my AAA services if I move to assisted living or personal care?

Your eligibility for AAA services changes when you move to a residential care facility. You can still access information and assistance, APPRISE Medicare counseling, legal services, and PACE/PACENET prescription benefits. However, most direct care services like personal care, homemaker services, and meals are discontinued since the facility is expected to provide these. Your AAA can help you understand which services remain available and assist with the transition process.

Does Pennsylvania’s Medical Assistance (Medicaid) cover the same services as AAAs?

There’s significant overlap, but each program has different strengths. Medical Assistance waiver programs may provide more comprehensive in-home care services and have higher income limits than some AAA programs. However, AAA services are often more accessible and have no asset limits. Many people receive services from both systems – for example, Medical Assistance might cover skilled nursing while AAA provides transportation and meals. Your AAA can help you understand how to maximize benefits from both systems.

Can family members be paid to provide care through Pennsylvania AAA programs?

Yes, under certain circumstances. The OPTIONS program allows participants to hire family members as caregivers in some situations, though spouses typically cannot be paid. This is handled on a case-by-case basis depending on the family member’s qualifications and the local AAA’s policies. Veterans may have additional options through Veterans-Directed Care programs. Your AAA can explain the specific requirements and help you explore all available options for family caregiver compensation.

How do Pennsylvania’s 52 AAAs coordinate with each other?

Pennsylvania’s AAAs coordinate through the state Department of Aging, regional coalitions, and shared training programs. They use standardized assessment tools, participate in joint purchasing agreements, and share best practices through regular meetings and conferences. The CAPE evaluation system ensures consistent quality standards across all AAAs. While each AAA adapts services to local needs, this coordination ensures you receive similar service quality regardless of where you live in Pennsylvania.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my AAA services?

Start by discussing concerns directly with your service provider or case manager – many issues can be resolved quickly. If problems persist, contact your AAA director who must investigate complaints and provide written responses. You can also file complaints with the Pennsylvania Department of Aging or request mediation services. For nursing home or assisted living concerns, contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman. Remember that filing complaints should not affect your continued eligibility for services.

Are AAA services available in languages other than English?

Yes, all Pennsylvania AAAs are required to provide interpretation services for non-English speakers at no charge. Spanish interpretation is most readily available, but other languages can be arranged with advance notice. Some AAAs in areas with large immigrant populations may have bilingual staff. Translation services for written materials are also available upon request. Contact your local AAA to discuss language needs when requesting services.

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Disclaimer

Program details, contact information, and services are subject to change without advance notice. While this guide reflects 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 Pennsylvania Department of Aging before making decisions or applying for services.

This guide provides general information only and does not constitute professional legal, medical, or financial advice. Always consult with qualified professionals for advice specific to your individual circumstances.

For the most current information, contact:

• PA Link: 1-800-753-8827
• Pennsylvania Department of Aging: (717) 783-1550
• Your local Area Agency on Aging

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About This Guide

Researched and Compiled by Grants for Seniors

This comprehensive guide has been meticulously researched using official government resources and verified program websites. We systematically review federal and state program information to create accurate, detailed guides for older Americans seeking financial assistance and support services.

Our Research Sources: All information is derived from official sources including federal agency websites (Administration for Community Living, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Social Security Administration), Pennsylvania 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, confirming current program status and availability, verifying contact information and addresses, and checking eligibility requirements and application procedures.

Information Currency:
• Last Updated: January 2026
• Sources Verified: January 2026
• Next Review: April 2026

Important Note: Government programs and services 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 or making decisions.

Found an Error or Omission? If you discover outdated information or additional programs that should be included, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. Your feedback helps us maintain accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Always confirm program details with official sources before applying. Grant opportunities and eligibility criteria may change frequently.

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This resource is independently researched to help seniors and their families access available financial assistance programs and support services in Pennsylvania.