Area Agencies on Aging in Utah

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

Last updated: January 05, 2026

Emergency Resources and Crisis Support

Call 911 immediately if you or a loved one faces immediate danger, medical crisis, or abuse situation.

For urgent aging and disability support:

• Utah Division of Aging & Adult Services Crisis Line: 1-800-371-7897 – Elder abuse reporting, Monday-Friday 8 AM – 5 PM
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 – Free, confidential crisis support
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 – Mental health emergency assistance
• Adult Protective Services: Report online 24/7 at daas.utah.gov or call 1-800-371-7897

For immediate assistance:

• 2-1-1 Utah – Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency resources and services
• Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for emergency food, transportation, and shelter programs

Essential Information at a Glance

• Utah operates through 12 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) covering all 29 counties
• Free or affordable services available for adults 60+ and individuals with disabilities
• No statewide toll-free number – contact your specific regional AAA directly
• Utah Division of Aging & Adult Services coordinates statewide – call 801-538-3910 for guidance
• Income requirements vary by program – many services available regardless of financial status
• Medicaid waiver programs available including Aging Waiver and New Choices Waiver
• Rural service delivery adapted for Utah’s mountainous terrain and dispersed communities

Understanding Utah’s Aging Services Network

Utah’s aging services operate through a collaborative network designed to help older adults maintain independence and dignity while living in their communities. The system recognizes Utah’s unique geographic challenges, from urban centers along the Wasatch Front to remote rural areas across the state’s diverse terrain.

The Utah Division of Aging & Adult Services (DAAS) functions as the state’s central coordinating agency, working under the Utah Department of Health and Human Services. DAAS develops policies, distributes federal and state funding, and oversees quality standards while allowing local AAAs flexibility to meet their communities’ specific needs.

Unlike some states with centralized toll-free systems, Utah’s approach emphasizes regional expertise. Each AAA develops deep knowledge of local resources, cultural considerations, and geographic challenges. This model works particularly well in Utah, where community connections and local knowledge prove invaluable in rural and frontier areas.

Utah’s system also reflects the state’s collaborative culture, with AAAs frequently partnering with faith-based organizations, volunteer groups, and community nonprofits to extend their reach and impact.

Utah’s Area Agencies on Aging: Regional Directory

Note: Contact information may change. Verify current details by calling your regional AAA or the Utah Division of Aging & Adult Services at 801-538-3910.

Core Services Available Through Utah AAAs

Information and Resource Navigation

Every Utah AAA provides comprehensive information and assistance to help residents understand available options and access appropriate services. Staff members receive specialized training to provide guidance on:

• Comprehensive benefit eligibility screening and applications
• Medicare enrollment, appeals, and plan comparisons
• Medicaid waiver program navigation
• Community resource identification and referrals
• Crisis intervention and emergency planning
• Healthcare system navigation and advocacy

This foundational service requires no eligibility criteria – anyone can call for information and assistance.

Nutrition and Meal Programs

Utah AAAs recognize nutrition as fundamental to healthy aging and operate diverse meal programs adapted to local conditions and cultural preferences.

Community Dining Programs: Nutritious meals served at senior centers, community centers, and faith-based facilities throughout Utah. These programs emphasize social connection alongside nutrition, offering activities, health screenings, and educational programs. Suggested donations range from $3-6, but no one is denied service for inability to contribute.

Home-Delivered Meal Services: For homebound seniors or those with mobility challenges, AAAs coordinate meal delivery programs. Services range from daily hot meals to weekly frozen meal deliveries, depending on local capacity and individual needs. Volunteers often provide welfare checks during deliveries.

Nutrition Education and Counseling: AAAs offer nutrition education programs, dietary counseling, and connections to programs like SNAP (food stamps) and commodity food distribution.

Utah Reality: Mountain weather and rural distances can affect meal delivery schedules. AAAs maintain backup plans for severe weather and stock emergency food supplies for isolated communities.

Transportation Solutions

Transportation represents a critical challenge in Utah, given the state’s geography and weather patterns. AAAs address this through innovative, locally-adapted programs:

Medical Transportation: Priority transportation for healthcare appointments, dialysis, physical therapy, and medical treatments. Some AAAs operate specialized vehicles with wheelchair accessibility and medical equipment storage.

Essential Errands Transportation: Scheduled rides for grocery shopping, banking, pharmacy visits, and other essential activities. Rural AAAs often coordinate longer trips to regional shopping centers.

Volunteer Driver Programs: Many AAAs recruit and train volunteer drivers to provide flexible, personalized transportation. These programs work especially well in rural areas where traditional transit isn’t viable.

Transportation Vouchers: Some AAAs provide vouchers for taxi services, ride-sharing programs, or public transit to supplement direct transportation services.

Planning Note: Utah’s weather can significantly impact transportation availability. Book medical trips 5-10 days in advance, and always have backup plans during winter months.

Legal Assistance and Advocacy

AAAs provide free legal assistance for seniors in civil matters affecting their security, independence, and well-being. Common legal issues addressed include:

• Medicare and insurance disputes and appeals
• Social Security disability and benefit problems
• Housing discrimination and tenant rights issues
• Consumer fraud and financial exploitation
• Basic estate planning and advance directive preparation
• Family law matters affecting older adults
• Public benefit denials and administrative appeals

Legal services are provided through staff attorneys, contracted legal aid organizations, and volunteer attorney programs.

Medicare and Insurance Support

Utah AAAs participate in the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), providing unbiased counseling on Medicare and insurance issues:

• Medicare enrollment assistance and annual plan reviews
• Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plan comparisons
• Part D prescription drug plan selection and optimization
• Claims appeals and billing problem resolution
• Medicare fraud education and reporting assistance

SHIP counselors receive extensive training and provide completely objective advice with no financial interest in your insurance decisions.

Care Coordination and Case Management

For seniors with complex needs, AAAs provide comprehensive case management services to coordinate multiple services and advocate for appropriate care:

• Comprehensive assessment of health, social, and environmental needs
• Development of individualized care plans and service coordination
• Ongoing monitoring and adjustment of service plans
• Healthcare system navigation and provider communication
• Crisis intervention and emergency planning
• Family conference facilitation and caregiver education

Family Caregiver Support Services

Utah AAAs operate robust caregiver support programs recognizing that family caregivers provide the majority of long-term care in the state:

Education and Training: Workshops on caregiving techniques, stress management, understanding medical conditions, and recognizing when professional help is needed.

Support Groups and Counseling: Peer support groups led by trained facilitators and individual counseling services to help caregivers manage emotional and practical challenges.

Respite Care Services: Temporary care arrangements that allow family caregivers time to rest, attend appointments, or handle personal matters. Options include in-home companions, adult day programs, and short-term residential care.

Supplemental Support Services: Limited funding for services not available through other programs, such as emergency respite, assistive devices, home safety modifications, and caregiver training materials.

Utah Medicaid Waiver Programs

Utah offers several Medicaid waiver programs coordinated through AAAs that help eligible seniors and people with disabilities receive care at home instead of in institutional settings.

Aging Waiver (Waiver for Individuals Age 65 or Older)

Utah’s Aging Waiver provides comprehensive home and community-based services for eligible seniors who require nursing home-level care but prefer to remain in their homes or communities.

Available Services Include:

• Personal care assistance with activities of daily living
• Homemaker services including light housekeeping and meal preparation
• Adult day health programs with nursing supervision
• Respite care for family caregivers (in-home and facility-based)
• Personal emergency response systems and monitoring
• Home modifications and accessibility improvements
• Assistive technology and durable medical equipment
• Transportation for medical and essential appointments
• Case management and service coordination

Eligibility Requirements for 2026:

• Must be 65 years of age or older
• Must require nursing home level of care as determined by assessment
• Must be Utah Medicaid eligible
• Income limit: $1,305 per month (increased each March)
• Asset limit: $2,000 for individuals, higher limits for married couples
• Must choose community-based care over nursing home placement

Important Note: The Aging Waiver does not have enrollment caps, but funding limitations can create waiting periods for services. Applications are processed in order received.

New Choices Waiver (NCW)

The New Choices Waiver assists individuals already residing in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or small healthcare facilities who wish to transition back to community living.

Key Features:

• Designed specifically for institutional residents wanting to return home
• More liberal income limits than the Aging Waiver
• Comprehensive transition planning and support services
• Self-direction options allowing participants to choose their caregivers
• Ongoing support to maintain community living

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must currently reside in a qualifying institutional setting
• Must be 18 years or older (no upper age limit)
• Must require nursing home level of care
• Must be Utah Medicaid eligible or eligible for special income rules
• Income limit: $2,829 per month (2024 rates, adjusted annually)

Transition Process:

• Assessment of readiness for community living
• Development of comprehensive transition plan
• Arrangement of necessary home modifications and services
• Coordination of move from institutional to community setting
• Ongoing case management and support services

Community Supports Waiver

While primarily serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, this waiver also serves some older adults with these conditions who require specialized support services.

Personal Choice and Self-Direction Options

Utah’s waiver programs offer self-direction options that allow participants greater control over their care:

• Participant-Directed Services: Participants can hire, train, and supervise their own caregivers, including some family members
• Budget Management: Participants receive a monthly budget for services and can allocate funds based on their preferences and needs
• Service Selection: Flexibility to choose which services to receive and when to receive them
• Provider Choice: Ability to select providers who understand cultural preferences and communication styles

Special Population Services in Utah

Rural and Frontier Communities

Utah’s vast rural areas face unique aging challenges that AAAs address through innovative service delivery models:

Adapted Service Delivery:

• Mobile service units bringing services directly to remote communities
• Telehealth and telephonic support services
• Consolidated service delivery combining multiple programs in single visits
• Seasonal service adjustments for winter weather and access challenges
• Faith-based and volunteer partner networks extending service reach

Rural-Specific Programs:

• Extended-range transportation for medical specialties in urban areas
• Bulk purchasing programs for prescription medications and supplies
• Emergency communication systems for isolated residents
• Weather-related emergency planning and response
• Mobile meal delivery adapted for mountain and desert terrain

Cultural and Religious Communities

Utah’s AAAs serve diverse communities with respect for cultural and religious preferences:

LDS Community Services: Many AAAs partner with LDS Church welfare programs and volunteer networks while maintaining secular service availability for all residents.

Hispanic/Latino Seniors: Several AAAs provide bilingual services, culturally appropriate programming, and partnerships with Hispanic community organizations.

Native American Elders: While Utah has limited tribal territories, AAAs coordinate with tribal organizations and respect traditional approaches to elder care.

Refugee and Immigrant Communities: Urban AAAs provide interpretation services and culturally sensitive programming for diverse immigrant populations.

Veterans and Military Families

Utah has a significant veteran population, and AAAs coordinate extensively with VA services:

Veteran-Specific Coordination:

• Help accessing VA medical care and benefits
• Transportation to VA medical centers in Salt Lake City and other facilities
• Assistance with VA pension and disability applications
• Coordination between AAA services and VA home and community-based programs
• Honor guard and military burial coordination

Key Resources:

• Utah Department of Veterans & Military Affairs: 801-326-2372
• VA Salt Lake City Health Care System: 801-582-1565
• Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Utah AAAs work to ensure inclusive, welcoming services for LGBTQ+ seniors:

• All staff receive diversity and inclusion training
• Non-discrimination policies strictly enforced
• Referrals to LGBTQ+-friendly healthcare and social services
• Partnerships with Utah Pride Center and other LGBTQ+ organizations
• Confidential support for seniors facing family rejection or social isolation

Seniors with Disabilities

AAAs serve adults with disabilities regardless of age, providing specialized support for:

• Physical disabilities and mobility limitations
• Cognitive impairments and dementia-related conditions
• Sensory impairments including vision and hearing loss
• Mental health conditions affecting daily functioning
• Multiple or complex disability conditions

Accessing Services: Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Identify Your Regional AAA

Unlike states with centralized intake systems, Utah requires you to contact your specific regional AAA directly. Use the directory above to identify which AAA serves your county, then call their main number during business hours.

Step 2: Initial Consultation

AAA staff will conduct an initial consultation covering:

• Your current living situation and support system
• Specific services or assistance you’re seeking
• Health status and functional abilities
• Financial situation for programs with income requirements
• Immediate safety concerns or urgent needs

This conversation typically takes 15-30 minutes and helps staff determine appropriate next steps.

Step 3: Comprehensive Assessment (When Needed)

For ongoing services or waiver programs, you may need a detailed assessment:

• Phone Assessment: For basic services like meal programs or transportation
• Office Assessment: For complex services requiring documentation review
• Home Assessment: For waiver programs, home modifications, or safety evaluations

Assessments evaluate physical and cognitive functioning, safety concerns, social support systems, and service preferences.

Step 4: Service Planning and Implementation

Based on your assessment, AAA staff will:

• Explain available services and eligibility requirements
• Help complete applications for benefits and programs
• Develop a personalized service plan if appropriate
• Make referrals to other agencies and organizations
• Schedule and coordinate ongoing services

Step 5: Ongoing Support and Monitoring

AAAs provide continued assistance through:

• Regular contact to assess changing needs
• Annual reassessments for waiver participants
• Help accessing new services as circumstances change
• Advocacy when service problems arise
• Crisis intervention and emergency planning

Program Costs and Financial Assistance

No-Cost Services

These services are available without charge to eligible participants:

• Information and assistance consultations
• Benefits counseling and Medicare assistance
• Legal consultation and advice
• Case management and service coordination
• Caregiver education and support groups

Donation-Based Services

These services have suggested donation amounts but cannot deny service for inability to pay:

• Community dining meals ($3-6 suggested donation)
• Home-delivered meals ($4-7 suggested donation)
• Transportation services ($2-8 suggested donation depending on distance)
• Social activities and educational programs

Income-Based Services

Some services use sliding fee scales based on household income:

• In-home personal care services
• Adult day programs
• Extended respite care services
• Home modification projects

Insurance and Medicaid Coverage

Many services can be covered through:

• Medicaid waiver programs
• Medicare for medically necessary services
• Veterans benefits for eligible veterans
• Private insurance (limited coverage)
• Utah state supplemental programs

Financial Reality Check: Even free services operate with limited funding, which means waiting lists, reduced service levels during budget constraints, and potential service interruptions. Donations help programs serve more people and maintain service quality.

Quality Assurance and Your Rights

Program Oversight

Utah AAAs must meet stringent standards for:

• Staff training and professional qualifications
• Service quality and safety protocols
• Financial accountability and management
• Cultural competency and non-discrimination
• Privacy protection and confidentiality

Monitoring and Accountability

AAAs are regularly monitored by:

• Utah Division of Aging & Adult Services
• Federal Administration for Community Living
• Independent financial and programmatic auditors
• Local advisory councils and governing boards
• Consumer feedback systems

Complaint Resolution Process

If you experience problems with services:

1. Address concerns with your service provider – Many issues can be resolved quickly at the direct service level
2. Contact the AAA supervisor or director – Each AAA has formal complaint procedures
3. File a complaint with Utah DAAS – Call 801-538-3910 for state-level intervention
4. Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman – For issues with nursing homes or assisted living facilities

Your Rights as a Service Recipient

You have the right to:

• Respectful, dignified treatment regardless of background or circumstances
• Services provided without discrimination based on race, religion, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics
• Confidential handling of personal and medical information
• Active participation in decisions about your care and services
• File complaints without fear of retaliation or service termination
• Receive services that meet established professional standards

Regional Service Highlights

Northern Utah (Bear River, Davis, Weber-Morgan)

• Strong public transit connections along Wasatch Front
• University partnerships providing research and volunteer programs
• Extensive volunteer networks through community organizations
• Specialized services for agricultural and rural communities

Central Utah (Salt Lake County, Mountainland/MAG)

• Most comprehensive urban services in the state
• Extensive healthcare partnerships and specialty programs
• Diverse cultural programming and multilingual services
• Technology initiatives including telehealth and digital inclusion

Southern Utah (Five County AAA)

• Innovative rural service delivery models
• Strong faith-based partnerships and volunteer programs
• Seasonal resident programs for winter visitors
• Specialized desert and rural transportation solutions

Eastern Utah (Southeastern, Uintah Basin)

• Mining and energy industry retiree programs
• Extended-range transportation for specialized medical care
• Tribal coordination and cultural sensitivity programs
• Emergency preparedness for isolated communities

Central Rural Utah (Six County, Tooele)

• Agricultural community specialization
• Mobile service delivery for dispersed populations
• Weather-adaptive programming and emergency planning
• Small-town partnership networks

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these services only for people who can’t afford private care?

No, many Utah AAA services are available regardless of income level. Information and assistance, Medicare counseling, and legal consultations are free to anyone. While some intensive services like personal care may have income requirements, the system is designed to help middle-income seniors as well as those with limited resources. Even if you don’t qualify for subsidized services, AAAs can help you navigate private options and community resources.

How do Utah’s mountain winters affect service availability?

Utah AAAs plan extensively for winter weather impacts. Meal delivery schedules may be adjusted during storms, and emergency food supplies are pre-positioned in mountain communities. Transportation services maintain winter-capable vehicles and backup plans. Many AAAs shift to telehealth and phone-based services during severe weather. It’s important to register for emergency contact programs and maintain at least a week’s supply of essential medications and food during winter months.

Can I get services if I split time between Utah and another state?

This depends on which state you claim as your primary residence for tax and legal purposes. If you’re a Utah resident who winters elsewhere, you can typically maintain Utah AAA services but may have limited access during your absence. Some coordination with other states’ aging networks is possible. If you’re considering changing residence, consult with both states’ AAAs about service continuity before making the transition.

What happens to my services if I move between Utah counties?

Services don’t automatically transfer when you move between counties served by different AAAs. You’ll need to contact the AAA in your new county to reestablish services. However, your assessment information and service history can usually be shared between AAAs to expedite the process. If you’re receiving waiver services, the transition is typically seamless since these are state programs, though you may be assigned a new case manager.

How do Utah’s AAAs handle the state’s cultural and religious diversity?

Utah AAAs are required to provide culturally competent services and respect religious preferences. This includes offering services that accommodate LDS culture without excluding non-LDS residents, providing bilingual services for Spanish-speaking communities, and respecting diverse family structures and traditions. Staff receive diversity training, and AAAs partner with cultural organizations to ensure inclusive programming.

Can family members be paid to provide care through Utah’s waiver programs?

Yes, through the participant-directed services option in Utah’s waiver programs, you can often hire family members to provide personal care services. However, spouses and legal guardians cannot be paid caregivers. Adult children, siblings, and other relatives may be eligible if they meet provider qualifications and complete required training. A financial management service handles payroll and taxes for participant-directed caregivers.

What should I do if I suspect elder abuse in Utah?

Utah has mandatory elder abuse reporting. Contact Adult Protective Services immediately at 1-800-371-7897 or report online at daas.utah.gov. For immediate danger, call 911. APS investigates abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation of vulnerable adults. You can report anonymously, and there are legal protections for people who report suspected abuse in good faith.

How do Utah AAAs serve the state’s rural and frontier communities?

Utah AAAs use innovative approaches for rural service delivery including mobile service units, volunteer driver networks, faith-based partnerships, and consolidated service visits. Some AAAs coordinate regional shopping trips to larger towns and provide bulk purchasing programs. Telehealth and telephone-based services help bridge distances. However, rural residents should expect longer travel times for some services and may need to plan further in advance.

Are there special programs for Utah veterans?

Yes, Utah AAAs coordinate extensively with VA services and provide specialized assistance for veterans. This includes help accessing VA benefits, transportation to VA medical facilities, and coordination between civilian and military benefits. Utah has a strong veteran support network, and many AAAs have staff specifically trained in veteran issues. Contact your local AAA for information about veteran-specific programs in your area.

What if I need services but don’t speak English well?

All Utah AAAs are required to provide interpretation services at no cost to you. Spanish interpretation is widely available, and other languages can be arranged. Many AAAs have bilingual staff and culturally appropriate programming. Translation of essential documents can also be provided. Never let language barriers prevent you from seeking help – interpretation is considered a basic service requirement.

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Important Disclaimers

Program details, contact information, eligibility requirements, and service availability can change without advance notice. While this guide reflects the most current information available as of January 2026, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with the appropriate Area Agency on Aging or the Utah Division of Aging & Adult Services before making decisions or applying for services.

This guide provides general information only and does not constitute professional legal, medical, or financial advice. Individual circumstances vary, and you should consult with qualified professionals for advice specific to your situation.

For the most current information, contact:

• Utah Division of Aging & Adult Services: 801-538-3910
• Your local Area Agency on Aging (see directory above)
• Utah Commission on Aging: ucoa.utah.edu

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About This Guide

Researched and Compiled by Grants for Seniors

This guide has been meticulously researched using verified government sources and official program documentation. Our team systematically reviews federal and state aging program information to create accurate, comprehensive resources for older Americans seeking support services and financial assistance.

Information Sources: All content is sourced from official government websites including the Utah Division of Aging & Adult Services, Utah Department of Health and Human Services, federal aging administration sites, and verified Area Agency on Aging documentation.

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

Currency and Updates:
• Last Updated: January 2026
• Sources Verified: January 2026
• Next Scheduled Review: April 2026

Important Note: Government programs and contact information can change rapidly. While this guide uses the most current available information, we strongly recommend confirming all details directly with program administrators before applying for services.

Report Errors or Updates: If you discover outdated information or know of 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 and eligibility requirements with official sources before applying for services or making decisions based on this information.

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This resource is independently researched to help seniors access available support services and benefits programs.