Area Agencies on Aging in Wisconsin
Complete Guide to Area Agencies on Aging in Wisconsin (2026)
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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:
- Wisconsin ADRC Helpline: 844-WIS-ADRC (844-947-2372) – Statewide 24/7 access to local aging and disability resource centers
- Adult Protective Services: (608) 266-2536 – 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 assistance:
- 211 Wisconsin – Dial 2-1-1 for local emergency resources and services
- Contact your local ADRC for emergency support and crisis intervention
Key Takeaways
- Wisconsin has 72 Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) serving all counties plus 11 tribal ADRSs
- ADRCs serve as both Area Agencies on Aging and disability resource centers – a “No Wrong Door” approach
- All core services are free regardless of income for seniors 60+ and adults with disabilities
- Call 844-WIS-ADRC (844-947-2372) to find your local ADRC from anywhere in Wisconsin
- Family Care and IRIS programs help eligible individuals receive long-term care at home instead of nursing facilities
- Self-direction options allow you to hire and manage your own caregivers, including family members
- Wisconsin’s integrated model combines aging and disability services under one system
What Makes Wisconsin’s System Unique?
Wisconsin pioneered an innovative approach to aging and disability services by creating Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) that serve both older adults and people with disabilities through a single, coordinated system. This “No Wrong Door” model ensures that regardless of where you enter the system, you’ll receive comprehensive assistance.
Unlike many states that operate separate aging and disability networks, Wisconsin’s integrated approach recognizes that many people have both age-related and disability-related needs. The ADRC system provides a seamless pathway to services whether you’re a 45-year-old with a disability, an 85-year-old with multiple chronic conditions, or a family caregiver supporting someone with complex needs.
Wisconsin’s system emphasizes consumer choice and self-direction. Through programs like Family Care and IRIS (Include, Respect, I Self-Direct), eligible individuals can take control of their care by choosing their own services, providers, and even hiring family members as paid caregivers.
The state also places strong emphasis on keeping people in their homes and communities. Wisconsin’s long-term care programs are designed to prevent or delay nursing home placement while ensuring people receive the support they need to live safely and independently.
Wisconsin’s ADRC Network: Your Gateway to Services
How Wisconsin’s ADRC System Works
Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) operate in all 72 Wisconsin counties, making them the most accessible aging and disability resource network in the country. Each ADRC serves as both the local Area Agency on Aging and the disability resource center for their county or region.
Statewide Access Number: 844-WIS-ADRC (844-947-2372) This single number connects you to your local ADRC based on your county of residence, providing 24/7 access to information and emergency assistance.
What ADRCs Provide
Information and Assistance: Unbiased information about all available services and programs, regardless of funding source or provider. ADRC staff help you understand your options and make informed decisions.
Benefits Counseling: Expert assistance with Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, FoodShare, and other benefit programs through specialized benefit specialists.
Options Counseling: Help exploring all long-term care options, from staying at home with support to choosing appropriate residential care settings.
Access to Long-Term Care Programs: ADRCs are the single entry point for Wisconsin’s Medicaid long-term care programs including Family Care and IRIS.
Care Transitions: Support during transitions between care settings, such as hospital to home or nursing home to community living.
Caregiver Support: Resources, education, and respite services for family caregivers.
ADRC Staff Specialists
Information and Assistance Specialists provide general information about resources and help navigate the service system.
Elder Benefit Specialists help adults 60+ with benefit applications, appeals, and problem-solving. Services are confidential and free.
Disability Benefit Specialists assist adults with disabilities ages 17½-59 with accessing benefits and resolving benefit problems.
Long-Term Care Options Counselors help people explore care options and understand the differences between various programs and services.
Dementia Care Specialists provide specialized support for individuals with dementia and their families, including education, resources, and care planning.
Core Services Available Through Wisconsin ADRCs
Nutrition Services
Wisconsin’s nutrition programs address both food security and social isolation among older adults.
Congregate Meals: Nutritious meals served at senior centers, community centers, and other locations throughout Wisconsin. These programs provide social interaction, wellness checks, and nutrition education along with meals. Suggested donation is typically $3-5 for seniors 60+.
Home-Delivered Meals: For seniors who cannot attend congregate meal sites due to mobility, transportation, or health issues. Volunteers deliver hot, cold, or frozen meals directly to homes, often providing the primary social contact for isolated seniors.
Nutrition Education: Programs teaching healthy eating on limited budgets, meal planning, food safety, and nutrition for chronic disease management.
Emergency Food Programs: Food pantries and emergency meal delivery during crises, coordinated through local ADRCs and community partners.
Transportation Services
Transportation is crucial for maintaining independence and accessing services in Wisconsin’s mix of urban and rural communities.
Medical Transportation: Priority service for medical appointments, dialysis, physical therapy, and other healthcare needs. May include specialized wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
General Transportation: Scheduled service for shopping, banking, social activities, and essential errands. Service frequency varies by location and demand.
Volunteer Driver Programs: Community volunteers provide transportation, especially important in rural areas where other options are limited.
Transportation Vouchers: Some ADRCs provide vouchers for taxi services or other transportation providers.
Specialized Transportation: Wheelchair-accessible vehicles and services for people with specific mobility needs.
Legal Services
Free legal assistance for seniors 60+ in civil matters that affect their health, safety, and independence.
Legal Issues Addressed:
- Medicare and Medicaid problems and appeals
- Social Security disability and benefit issues
- Consumer protection and fraud prevention
- Housing problems including landlord-tenant issues
- Estate planning basics (wills, advance directives, power of attorney)
- Healthcare decision-making and patient rights
- Age discrimination and elder rights
Legal Aid Access: Wisconsin’s ADRCs coordinate with Legal Action of Wisconsin and volunteer attorney programs to provide services statewide.
Family Caregiver Support
Comprehensive support for family members and friends providing care to older adults and people with disabilities.
National Family Caregiver Support Program Services:
- Information about caregiving and available resources
- Education and training on caregiving skills
- Counseling and support groups (in-person and virtual)
- Respite care to give caregivers temporary relief
- Limited financial assistance for respite and support services
Powerful Tools for Caregivers: Evidence-based education program helping caregivers develop skills, reduce stress, and improve their own health.
Dementia-Specific Support: Specialized programming for caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Special support and resources for grandparents and other relatives providing full-time care for children.
Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
Programs designed to help seniors maintain their health, prevent chronic disease complications, and avoid injuries.
Evidence-Based Programs:
- Chronic Disease Self-Management Program
- Diabetes Self-Management Program
- Stepping On (fall prevention)
- A Matter of Balance (fall prevention)
- Powerful Tools for Caregivers
Wellness Activities:
- Health screenings and immunization clinics
- Fitness programs adapted for seniors
- Mental health and wellness education
- Medication management education
- Nutrition counseling
Medicare Preventive Services: Education about and assistance accessing Medicare-covered preventive services.
Wisconsin’s Medicaid Long-Term Care Programs
Wisconsin operates innovative Medicaid programs that help eligible individuals receive long-term care in their homes and communities rather than nursing facilities.
Family Care Program
Family Care is Wisconsin’s managed long-term care program serving frail elders and adults with disabilities who need nursing home level care but prefer to remain in the community.
How Family Care Works:
- Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) coordinate all services
- MCOs receive monthly payments to provide comprehensive care
- Members work with care managers to develop individualized care plans
- Services are provided through network providers contracted with the MCO
Services Include:
- Personal care and homemaker services
- Adult day care programs
- Nursing services and therapy
- Medical equipment and supplies
- Home modifications and assistive technology
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Respite care for family caregivers
- Case management and care coordination
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be eligible for Wisconsin Medicaid
- Must need nursing home level of care
- Must be 18+ years old
- Must live in a county where Family Care is available
- Must choose community-based care over nursing home care
Coverage Areas: Family Care is available statewide, implemented in phases since 1999.
IRIS Program (Include, Respect, I Self-Direct)
IRIS is Wisconsin’s self-directed long-term care program, allowing participants to control their own care decisions and budgets.
Self-Direction Features:
- Participants receive individualized budgets based on assessed needs
- Freedom to choose services, providers, and schedules
- Ability to hire family members and friends as paid caregivers
- Flexibility to purchase goods and services that meet individual goals
- Participant acts as employer for hired workers
IRIS Services Available:
- Self-Directed Personal Care (can be provided by family members)
- Adult day care and day habilitation
- Home modifications and assistive technology
- Transportation services
- Counseling and therapeutic services
- Respite care (in-home and out-of-home)
- Community integration support
- Personal emergency response systems
- Home-delivered meals
- Live-in caregiver services
Unique IRIS Features:
- Individual Directed Goods and Services (flexible spending for disability-related needs)
- Consumer Education and Training (including training for family caregivers)
- Financial Management Services through Fiscal Employer Agents
- Emergency backup planning requirements
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must meet all Family Care eligibility requirements
- Must be able to self-direct or have someone who can direct care
- Must live in own home, family home, adult family home, or residential care apartment complex
- Cannot live in group homes or nursing facilities
IRIS as Entitlement: Unlike most Medicaid waiver programs, IRIS is an entitlement program—all eligible applicants receive services without waiting lists.
Community Options Program (COP)
Limited geographic program serving people with severe long-term care needs in certain counties.
COP Features:
- Smaller program with intensive services
- Serves elderly individuals and adults with significant disabilities
- Provides cost-effective alternatives to institutional care
- Available only in select counties
Special Population Services
Tribal Aging and Disability Resource Specialists (ADRS)
Wisconsin’s 11 tribal nations operate specialized Aging and Disability Resource Specialists who provide culturally responsive services to tribal members.
Tribal ADRS Services:
- Culturally appropriate information and assistance
- Traditional healing and wellness approaches
- Coordination with tribal health and social services
- Access to both tribal and state programs
- Language interpretation when needed
Participating Tribes:
- Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa
- Forest County Potawatomi Community
- Ho-Chunk Nation
- Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa
- Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa
- Menominee Indian Tribe
- Oneida Nation
- Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa
- Sokaogon Chippewa Community
- St. Croix Chippewa Indians
- Stockbridge-Munsee Community
Tribal Member Options: Tribal members can choose to work with their tribal ADRS or the local county ADRC, or both, depending on their needs and preferences.
Rural Wisconsin Seniors
Wisconsin’s rural areas face unique challenges including geographic isolation, limited transportation, and fewer service providers. ADRCs adapt services to meet rural needs:
Rural Service Adaptations:
- Mobile services bringing programs to remote communities
- Volunteer networks covering large geographic areas
- Telehealth and virtual programming options
- Coordination with rural healthcare providers
- Flexible scheduling to accommodate travel distances
- Seasonal service adjustments for weather conditions
Challenges in Rural Areas:
- Limited public transportation options
- Longer distances to specialized services
- Fewer healthcare providers and specialists
- Limited internet connectivity in some areas
- Economic challenges affecting service funding
LGBTQ+ Seniors
Wisconsin ADRCs provide inclusive services and work to ensure LGBTQ+ seniors feel welcome and safe.
LGBTQ+ Considerations:
- Non-discrimination policies in all ADRC services
- Staff training on LGBTQ+ cultural competency
- Inclusive intake forms and documentation
- Support for same-sex couples in care planning
- Referrals to LGBTQ+ affirming providers when requested
Resources:
- SAGE Milwaukee provides LGBTQ+ elder services
- Wisconsin LGBT Aging Coalition advocacy and support
- National SAGE resources and support hotline
Veterans
Wisconsin has a large veteran population, and ADRCs coordinate closely with VA services to ensure comprehensive support.
Veteran-Specific Coordination:
- Assistance applying for VA benefits and services
- Transportation to VA medical centers
- Coordination between VA and Wisconsin Medicaid programs
- Help accessing VA pension benefits
- Support for veteran spouses and survivors
- Honor guard and burial assistance coordination
Key VA Resources:
- Zablocki VA Medical Center (Milwaukee)
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital (Madison)
- Tomah VA Medical Center
- County Veterans Service Officers in every county
How to Access Services in Wisconsin
Step 1: Contact Your Local ADRC
Primary Access: Call 844-WIS-ADRC (844-947-2372) from anywhere in Wisconsin. This number will connect you to your local ADRC based on your county.
Other Contact Methods:
- Visit your local ADRC office in person
- Request a home visit if you cannot travel
- Contact through your county government website
- Email your local ADRC directly
Step 2: Initial Conversation
ADRC staff will conduct an initial conversation to understand:
- Your current situation and living arrangement
- What type of assistance you’re seeking
- Urgency of your needs
- Basic information about your income and resources (for certain programs)
- Whether you need immediate crisis intervention
This conversation is confidential and there’s no obligation to pursue services.
Step 3: Assessment and Options Counseling
Based on your needs, you may receive:
- Information about available services and programs
- Benefits counseling and application assistance
- Long-term care options counseling
- Functional assessment for long-term care programs
- Referrals to appropriate service providers
Step 4: Service Planning and Coordination
For ongoing services, ADRC staff will:
- Help you apply for appropriate programs
- Coordinate with service providers
- Develop care plans for long-term care programs
- Provide ongoing case management if needed
- Monitor your situation and adjust services as needs change
Step 5: Ongoing Support
Wisconsin’s system provides:
- Regular check-ins and reassessments
- Help accessing new services as needs change
- Advocacy when service problems arise
- Emergency assistance during crises
- Transition support when moving between care settings
Costs and Financial Assistance
Free Services
Available at no cost to all eligible participants:
- All ADRC information and assistance services
- Benefits counseling and application assistance
- Options counseling for long-term care
- Legal consultations and advice
- Caregiver education and support groups
- Dementia-specific services and support
Donation-Based Services
Suggested donations help sustain programs, but services cannot be denied for inability to pay:
- Congregate meals ($3-5 suggested donation)
- Home-delivered meals ($3-6 suggested donation)
- Transportation services ($2-5 suggested donation per trip)
- Some wellness and educational programs
Income-Based Services
Some services use sliding fee scales based on income:
- Extended transportation services
- Intensive case management
- Some adult day programs
- Respite care services
Medicaid-Funded Services
Long-term care services funded through Wisconsin Medicaid:
- Family Care program services
- IRIS program services
- Community Options Program services
- Nursing home care when appropriate
Cost-Sharing: Some Medicaid programs may require monthly cost-sharing based on income, but basic ADRC services remain free.
Financial Eligibility for Wisconsin Medicaid Long-Term Care Programs
2026 Income Limits
Single Applicant: $2,901/month Married Couple (both applying): $5,802/month combined Married Couple (one applying): $2,901/month for applicant; spouse income not counted
2026 Asset Limits
Single Applicant: $2,000 in countable assets Married Couple (both applying): $4,000 combined countable assets Married Couple (one applying): $2,000 for applicant; $157,920 for non-applicant spouse
What Counts as Income and Assets
Countable Income: Social Security, pensions, wages, investment income, rental income, alimony Countable Assets: Bank accounts, investments, second homes, vehicles over certain value
Exempt Assets: Primary residence (with equity limits), one vehicle, personal belongings, small life insurance policies, burial funds up to $1,500
Quality and Accountability
Program Standards and Oversight
Wisconsin’s aging and disability services operate under multiple layers of oversight:
Federal Standards: All programs must meet federal Older Americans Act and Medicaid requirements State Standards: Wisconsin Department of Health Services sets additional quality standards Local Standards: County and ADRC-specific policies ensure local accountability
Monitoring and Quality Assurance
Regular Monitoring:
- Annual reviews of ADRC performance
- Consumer satisfaction surveys
- Financial audits and compliance reviews
- Quality assurance visits and assessments
Consumer Protection:
- Ombudsman services for long-term care programs
- Grievance and appeals processes
- Background checks for all direct care workers
- Incident reporting and investigation systems
Your Rights as a Service Recipient
Fundamental Rights:
- Receive services without discrimination
- Have personal information kept confidential
- Participate in decisions about your care
- File complaints without fear of retaliation
- Receive services that meet professional standards
- Be treated with dignity and respect
Long-Term Care Program Rights:
- Choose your own providers and services (where applicable)
- Self-direct your care (in IRIS program)
- Appeal decisions you disagree with
- Have an advocate assist you
- Receive culturally appropriate services
Complaint and Appeals Process
For General ADRC Services:
- Speak with your ADRC worker or supervisor
- Contact the ADRC director
- Contact Wisconsin Department of Health Services
- Contact federal oversight agencies if needed
For Long-Term Care Programs:
- Contact your care manager or ADRC
- File formal grievance with your MCO (Family Care) or IRIS program
- Request fair hearing through Wisconsin Department of Health Services
- Contact ombudsman programs for assistance
Ombudsman Services:
- Board on Aging and Long-Term Care: (608) 266-8944 (for people 60+)
- Disability Rights Wisconsin: (608) 267-0214 (Family Care and IRIS ombudsman)
Regional ADRC Examples
Urban ADRCs
ADRC of Milwaukee County
- Serves Wisconsin’s largest county with diverse urban population
- Specialized programs for different communities
- Multiple service locations throughout the county
- Strong public transportation connections
Aging and Disability Resource Center for Dane County (Madison)
- Serves state capital region
- University of Wisconsin partnerships
- Innovation in service delivery models
- Strong volunteer networks
Rural ADRCs
ADRC of Central Wisconsin
- Serves four counties: Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, and Wood
- Multiple office locations to serve large geographic area
- Strong volunteer driver programs
- Mobile service delivery options
ADRC of Southwest Wisconsin
- Multi-county service area
- Rural service delivery innovations
- Strong community partnerships
- Agricultural community connections
Small County ADRCs
ADRC of Adams County
- Single-county service area
- Close-knit community approach
- Strong volunteer networks
- Personalized service delivery
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I receive services if I have private insurance or Medicare?
Yes, ADRC services are available regardless of your insurance status. Many services are funded through the Older Americans Act and state funds, not health insurance. However, ADRCs can also help you maximize your Medicare and private insurance benefits and coordinate with these programs when appropriate.
What if I need services that aren’t available through my local ADRC?
ADRCs maintain extensive resource networks and can refer you to other agencies, programs, and providers. If a service truly isn’t available in your area, your ADRC can advocate for service development or help you access services in other regions when possible.
How does Wisconsin’s integrated aging and disability system benefit me?
The integrated system means you don’t need to navigate separate agencies for different types of needs. Whether you’re aging into disability, have both age-related and disability-related needs, or are supporting someone with complex conditions, you get comprehensive assistance from one entry point.
Can I choose between Family Care and IRIS if I’m eligible for both?
Yes, if you’re eligible for long-term care services and live in an area where both programs are available, you can choose which program better meets your needs and preferences. Your ADRC options counselor will help you understand the differences and make an informed choice.
What if I want to hire my spouse or adult child as my caregiver?
This is possible through Wisconsin’s self-directed programs, particularly IRIS. Family members must meet qualification requirements, pass background checks, and follow employment procedures. The IRIS program provides training and support for family caregivers, and a fiscal employer agent handles payroll and tax responsibilities.
How does Wisconsin’s system handle people who move between counties?
Your services can transfer when you move to a different Wisconsin county. You’ll need to contact the ADRC in your new county to transfer your case and re-establish services. Your service history and assessments can usually be shared to speed up the process.
What support is available for family caregivers who are overwhelmed?
Wisconsin offers comprehensive caregiver support including education programs, support groups, respite care, counseling, and emergency assistance. The Powerful Tools for Caregivers program is especially helpful for developing coping strategies and reducing caregiver stress.
Are there services specifically for people with dementia and their families?
Yes, Wisconsin has dementia care specialists in ADRCs who provide specialized support, education, and resources. There are also dementia-specific adult day programs, support groups, respite services, and care planning assistance designed for the unique challenges of dementia care.
What happens if I disagree with a decision about my long-term care services?
Wisconsin has robust appeals processes for all long-term care programs. You can file grievances, request fair hearings, and get assistance from ombudsman programs. ADRCs can help you understand your rights and navigate the appeals process.
How does Wisconsin coordinate with neighboring states if I need services across state lines?
Wisconsin ADRCs can coordinate with aging and disability agencies in neighboring states for certain situations, such as when you need specialized medical care or are relocating. However, ongoing services are generally limited to Wisconsin residents, so you may need to establish residency and re-apply for services if you move permanently.
Disclaimer
Service availability, contact information, and program details can change without advance notice. While this guide uses the most current information available as of January 2026, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with your local ADRC or the Wisconsin Department of Health Services 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:
- Wisconsin ADRC Helpline: 844-WIS-ADRC (844-947-2372)
- Wisconsin Department of Health Services: (608) 266-1865
- Your local ADRC
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 and people with disabilities seeking assistance programs.
Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, federal agency websites (HHS, Administration for Community Living, CMS), 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 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.
This resource is independently researched to help seniors and people with disabilities access available assistance programs in Wisconsin.
About the Authors