Assisted Living for Seniors With Disabilities
Date Published: April 6, 2023
Many seniors develop diverse disabilities that can impair how and where they live. There are also those who have lived with a disability through adulthood, causing existing issues to compound in aging and affecting suitable housing and care options.
Often, seniors with disabilities experience reduced choices over where to live, who to live with and what care to receive. Disabled seniors may be encouraged to receive care in an institutional setting, such as a nursing home, rather than receive suitable care in a less restrictive setting, such as an assisted living community. However, the Americans with Disabilities Act required better housing options for those with disabilities. The law set out a requirement for equal housing opportunities for disabled Americans. Since its creation, housing options for people with disabilities have improved significantly.
Assisted living can provide a less restrictive housing option for disabled seniors. Individuals can live as part of a community, which can help to increase social bonds and life enjoyment. Facilities typically offer a range of enrichment activities and generally have diverse on-site amenities. Compared to nursing homes, there are often more choices with regard to residents’ accommodations, such as private or shared rooms, in-room cooking facilities, separate living areas and pet friendliness. Services are generally tailored to meet individual needs, with an emphasis on maintaining elder dignity and helping seniors to live as independently as possible.
This guide details assisted living for seniors with disabilities. It covers costs of assisted living, potential sources of funding, what to look for when choosing a facility and other possible housing solutions. It also lists disability resources for each state.
Common Disabilities That Impact Seniors
A significant number of people go through life with some form of disability. Unfortunately, the risk of having a disability also increases with age. Disabilities may include physical, sensory, intellectual, cognitive and mental limitations. Some disabilities may necessitate minimal extra support for a senior to live independently. On the other hand, other issues may demand around-the-clock care or constant supervision.
Intellectual Disabilities
Although seniors with intellectual disabilities will have had specific development issues since their youth, evidence suggests that such seniors have a greater risk of aging-related issues being undiagnosed. There’s also a greater risk of health needs not being addressed. Furthermore, some intellectual disabilities can make a person more predisposed to secondary conditions as they age. Seniors with intellectual disabilities are more inclined to become frail quicker than their counterparts without intellectual disabilities.
Older adults with intellectual disabilities are especially vulnerable and may require an advocate or guardian to ensure they receive appropriate care. Vulnerability is worsened by the fact that their primary caregivers may be family members who are also aging alongside the senior with intellectual limitations.
Sensory Disabilities
Sensory disabilities are those that affect any of the senses. These include sight, sound, touch, taste and smell. A lack of spatial awareness can also be a sensory disability. Causes of sensory disability are wide-ranging. They may result from lifelong neurological conditions, develop in aging, be caused by an injury, or be triggered by illness.
Per the CDC, sensory issues are significant for older Americans, with around 1 in 6 seniors experiencing some degree of vision loss and 1 in 4 experiencing hearing impairment. Approximately 25% of older Americans have a loss of feeling in their feet, which can affect balance and result in injury. Sensory issues increase with age, and studies suggest that around 2 in 3 older Americans have two or more sensory challenges.
Physical Disabilities
Physical disabilities affect a person’s physical functioning, such as walking and breathing. They can impact mobility, stamina and dexterity and have a wide range of causes. Studies indicate that mobility issues are among the most common disabilities among U.S. seniors. This can affect many aspects of a person’s life, including being able to attend medical and social appointments, go grocery shopping, complete domestic chores and perform personal care. People with limited dexterity may be unable to perform everyday activities such as preparing and eating meals, completing forms, bathing and fastening clothes.
Research also suggests that individuals with congenital or adult-acquired physical disabilities are more susceptible to developing chronic health conditions as they age than their able-bodied peers.
Mental Disabilities
According to the World Health Organization, mental health conditions affect around 15% of all people aged 60 and older. The most common types of mental disabilities among the elderly population are dementia and depression.
Dementia
An estimated 10% of senior Americans have dementia, with Alzheimer’s Disease being the most common form of dementia. Alzheimer’s Disease currently affects around 6.5 million Americans aged 65 and older. As the population grows older, the prevalence of Alzheimer’s is expected to increase.
Depression
Statistics indicate that around 2 million older Americans experience depression. Sadly, certain situations, such as bereavement, can mean the disease is overlooked in seniors, especially for those who are isolated. Older individuals also tend to have limited knowledge of the illness, which can prevent people from seeking the support they need.
Other Issues Concerning Mental Disabilities for Seniors
Research indicates that around 40% of seniors in nursing homes have mental disabilities, including depression, anxiety, dementia and personality disorders. However, various mental health issues may be undiagnosed within the aging populace. Some conditions may be triggered or exacerbated by an individual’s environment, and physical symptoms may be worsened by a mental health condition.
What To Look for in Assisted Living Communities for Seniors With Disabilities
Assisted living communities provide a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can age alongside their peers. Communities generally offer a maintenance-free lifestyle, and staff members typically take care of domestic chores and meal preparation in addition to assistance with daily activities and personal care tasks. Facilities often offer an enrichment program to fulfill holistic wellness needs.
Communities may provide services that promote health, such as regular nurse wellness checks, pharmaceutical services, on-site lab work and transportation to medical appointments. Facilities usually offer tailored care plans to ensure individuals receive the necessary support. Seniors with disabilities should also look for specific amenities and services.
Assisted Living for Seniors With Intellectual Disabilities
- Staff members trained to care for seniors with intellectual disabilities, such as communication techniques and behavioral development
- Staff members trained to administer medication
- Around-the-clock on-site staffing
- Regular wellness checks to ensure health conditions are detected as soon as possible
- Secure living environment
- Use of assistive technology, such as text-to-speech software (and vice versa), memory aids and speech-activated devices
- Ability-appropriate social and activity programs
- Criminal background checks for all staff members and safeguarding policies to reduce the risk of abuse and exploitation of vulnerable individuals
Assisted Living for Seniors With Sensory Disabilities
- Staff members trained to care for seniors with sensory disabilities
- Use of assistive technology, such as screen-reading software, loop systems and weighted blankets
- Regular checks and maintenance of assistive devices such as hearing aids and glasses
- Special programming geared toward sensory stimulation
- Environment designed to stimulate the senses
- Use of therapies, such as sensory integration, massage, water and music therapy
- Diverse menus
- Staff members who can communicate using American Sign Language for seniors with hearing issues
- Safety adaptations, such as flashing alarms for deaf seniors and grab rails for seniors with balance issues
Assisted Living for Seniors With Physical Disabilities
- Staff members trained to care for seniors with physical disabilities, such as assistance with transferring, walking and personal care
- Physical and accessibility aids, such as grab rails, ramps and shower benches
- Wheelchair accessibility and nonslip flooring throughout
- Regular maintenance of mobility devices, such as frames, scooters and wheelchairs
- Single-level community or elevator access for an easy-to-navigate environment
- Inclusive activity programs
- On-staff or visiting physical and occupational therapists
Assisted Living for Seniors With Mental Disabilities
- Staff members trained to care for seniors with mental disabilities, such as communication techniques
- Activity program that includes cognitive stimulation and memory recall
- Easy-to-navigate environment with clear sign-posting and prompts such as memory boards or boxes
- Ability to include personal items in rooms to make the environment more familiar
- Specialized lighting to reduce the effects of sundown syndrome
- Professional counseling, psychotherapy or psychiatric services, as needed
- Around-the-clock resident monitoring
- Secure facility
- Use of a Snoezelen room or other sensory stimulation aids
- Menus designed for brain health
How To Choose an Assisted Living Community for an Older Adult With Disabilities
It’s important to compare assisted living communities before making a final decision. Keep in mind that seniors may require assistance with more than one disability.
Questions To Ask When Choosing an ALF for a Senior With Disabilities
In addition to touring a community, checking out its facilities and reading reviews, asking particular questions can help people decide whether a certain facility is the most suitable choice for them. Asking questions can help people obtain information that isn’t obvious from a facility’s website. Example questions include:
- What training do your staff members have?
- What experience do your staff members have with this particular disability?
- Must staff pass criminal background checks?
- What resident safeguarding policies do you have?
- What is your ratio of staff to residents?
- Can staff administer medications?
- Do you have overnight staffing?
- What services are included?
- What additional services are available?
- How often do you review care plans?
- What programs do you offer for people with this disability?
- How do you ensure social integration opportunities?
- How do you try to meet physical, cognitive, emotional and spiritual wellness needs?
- Is your facility fully accessible?
- Do you offer accessible transportation?
- What assistive technology do you offer?
- What safety, security and emergency features does your facility have?
- How often are health and wellness checks performed?
- What happens if my loved one’s condition worsens?
- Can you accommodate residents with multiple disabilities?
- How do you communicate with family members?
- How do you encourage family involvement?
Checklist of Things To Look for in an Assisted Living Community for a Senior With Disabilities
Take this checklist with you when you tour communities to make sure it has everything you need to make you or your loved one thrive.
Where To Find Assisted Living for Seniors With Disabilities
When researching suitable assisted living facilities for people with disabilities, it’s important to remember that services and amenities can change. Facilities may amend available services or stop providing certain services altogether. Assisted living communities may also add or remove amenities and change staffing policies. Always check for up-to-date information to ensure that facilities have the necessary support, services and staff training to accommodate seniors with specific disabilities.
How Much Does Assisted Living for Someone with Disabilities Cost?
Per Genworth’s Cost of Care Survey, assisted living costs an average of $4,500 per month in the United States. However, average rates can vary significantly between states, cities and regions. Costs also vary depending on factors such as facility amenities, specialized programming, staffing ratios and resident accommodations. Assisted living communities may also charge extra for add-on services that disabled seniors need.
Additional fees may be required for the following:
- More frequent safety checks
- Reminders to complete tasks
- Medication administration and management
- Clinical or rehabilitative services
- Pharmaceutical and laboratory costs
- Nurse or physician services
- Counseling
- Memory care neighborhoods
- One-on-one care
- Personal care services, such as bathing, toileting and dressing
- Personal care supplies
- Assistance with activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living
- Ambulation and transferring
- Transportation
- Assistive technology
Other additional fees may include:
- Charges for pets
- Salon services
- Excursions
- On-site purchases at a store or cafe
- Laundry
- Wi-Fi and telephone calls
Financial Assistance for Disabled and Handicapped Seniors
Many seniors struggle to pay the full costs of assisted living, including base and add-on fees. Fortunately, there are several programs that can help eligible older adults cover at least some costs of assisted living. Some programs provide varying aspects of financial assistance for seniors with disabilities.
Medicare
While Medicare doesn’t directly cover any assisted living costs, it might cover the costs of medical services provided by the facility. These may include nursing services, medications, physician appointments and rehabilitation therapies. Medicare Advantage plans may cover additional services; policyholders should check their plans for further details.
How To Apply for Medicare
Eligible individuals can sign up for Medicare 3 months before their 65th birthday. Applications can be made online via the Social Security Administration’s website, by visiting a local SSA office or by calling (800) 772-1213.
Medicaid
Medicaid may cover certain costs of assisted living for seniors who meet eligibility criteria. Such criteria are typically related to an applicant’s financial situation and functional care needs. Some states directly include assisted living coverage as part of the state plan, while others provide funding via home-based and community-based waivers. Financial assistance doesn’t normally include room or meal costs, but it may cover a range of services including personal care services, assistance with everyday activities and transportation.
How To Apply for Medicaid
Seniors can apply for Medicaid online through the Health Insurance Marketplace or by contacting their state’s Medicaid agency.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Public Housing Programs
Public housing programs provide affordable housing for low-income seniors and people with disabilities. While programs don’t provide funding for assisted living facilities, seniors with disabilities may find two programs helpful:
- Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities (Section 811)
- Supportive Housing for the Elderly (Section 202)
Each provides rental assistance for supported housing.
How To Apply for Public Housing
People should contact their local Public Housing Agency or their local HUD field office to apply for public housing programs.
Housing Choice Voucher Program
Previously known as Section 8, the Housing Choice Voucher Program can help low-income individuals pay for their rent. Vouchers may be used to pay the rent portion of assisted living fees.
How To Apply for the Housing Choice Voucher Program
To apply for the Housing Choice Voucher Program, individuals should contact their local Public Housing Agency. Alternatively, they can contact their local HUD field office.
Local Resources
Additional funding options may be available in particular areas. These may include:
- Local Rural Development agencies for assistance in rural locations
- Local government programs that support people with disabilities
- HUD-approved housing counselors can find local housing assistance for disabled seniors
Other Housing Options for Seniors Living With Disabilities
Assisted living is one of several housing options for seniors with disabilities. Certain housing environments will be better suited to individuals to meet both their care needs and preferences.
Adult Family Homes/Care Homes for Seniors With Disabilities
Adult family homes or care homes for seniors with disabilities provide necessary support services in an intimate setting. Residents live in a smaller home with just a few other people. Homes are typically situated in regular residential neighborhoods. This care setting is often suitable for those with higher-level needs, as there’s generally a higher staff-to-resident ratio than in assisted living facilities. Some homes offer specialist services, such as skilled nursing, bariatric care and memory care, in a more family-like setting than a nursing home. Caregivers can sleep on-site. Homes generally don’t have the same range of amenities as a larger assisted living facility, although residents can generally access a communal lounge and garden and join diverse activities.
Nursing Homes for Seniors With Disabilities
Nursing homes offer the highest level of care and may be a suitable option for seniors with intensive care needs or severe limitations. They offer skilled nursing services and around-the-clock supervision and monitoring. This may make them especially suitable for seniors with respiratory needs, late-stage dementia or acute psychiatric disabilities. Nursing homes may also be the most appropriate option for seniors who need palliative or hospice care.
In-Home Care for Seniors With Disabilities
Seniors with disabilities who can live alone with the provision of support services may be suitable candidates for aging in place. Individuals can remain in the familiarity of their own homes with a range of services to enable safe and comfortable living. Services may include home-delivered meals, accessibility adaptations, personal assistance from visiting caregivers and transportation. Such type of care may be more appropriate for those with mild to moderate disabilities.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) for Seniors With Disabilities
Also referred to as a life plan community, a continuing care retirement community is generally suitable for seniors who have mild to moderate limitations. It is especially ideal for those who can live independently but like the safety net of having flexible services available if their support and care needs change. It can also cater to couples who wish to remain living together despite needing different levels of care. Services can be tailored to provide appropriate care for each party. Communities offer maintenance-free living in diverse types of accommodation with access to amenities and social programs. As needed, residents can increase services or move to other parts of the community to receive assisted living, memory or nursing home care.
State Resources for Disability Assistance
Most states have a dedicated agency or department responsible for providing resources to disabled individuals. Organizations typically act as a one-stop-shop for information, referrals and assistance related to care options, housing, financial aid, programs and support services.
State and Program
Contact Details
Description
Alabama
One Door Alabama
(800) 243-5463
ageline@adss.alabama.gov
One Door Alabama is an Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). Trained advisors connect seniors and people with disabilities with a wide range of local government and third-party supportive services. Advisors can also assist with benefit claims and appeals. Programs include those related to funding, legal assistance, long-term care advocacy and transportation.
Anchorage Office: (800) 478-9996
Juneau Office: (866) 465-3165
Fairbanks Office: (907) 451-5045
The Division of Senior and Disabilities Services provides access to programs that support the safety and well-being of older adults and people with disabilities. The division is home to Adult Protective Services, which safeguards vulnerable adults, and the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Unit. Programs include Centers for Independent Living, personal care services and an ADRC.
Via local offices
Arizona Department of Economic security manages many programs geared towards ensuring the safety and economic stability of the community. It’s home to Adult Protective Services, the Division of Developmental Disabilities, Arizona Rehabilitation Services and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman project. Relevant services may include those concerning home- and community-based supports, legal assistance, elder abuse, medical assistance and healthy living.
Arkansas
Choices in Living Resource Center
(866) 801-3435
choicesinliving@arkansas.gov
Operating as an ADRC, Arkansas’ Choices in Living Resource Center serves people with disabilities, seniors, family members and caregivers. Advisors help people navigate their options and signpost to local support services.
(800) 510-2020
California Aging and Disability Resource Connection operates under the umbrella of the California Department of Aging. It’s an ADRC that provides information and services via local Area Agencies on Aging. Support services may include those related to options counseling, benefits applications, disability adaptations, transportation and transition services.
(844) 265-2372
Aging and Disability Resources for Colorado is the statewide ADRC program. Individuals can obtain advice and referrals related to a wide range of supportive services, including financial assistance and options counseling. It operates under Colorado Department of Human Services, which is home to Adult Protective Services and the Office of Adult, Aging and Disability Services.
Connecticut
Community Choices
(800) 994-9422
Community Choices is the name of Connecticut’s statewide ADRC program. Trained advisors connect individuals with an array of services. These include those provided by the state government, such as Medicare and Medicaid advice, Long-Term Care Ombudsman project, Senior Medicare Patrol, Independent Living Program, disability determination services and deaf and hard of hearing counseling.
(800) 223-9074
delawareadrc@delaware.gov
As well as being a valuable source of information, Delaware’s ADRC provides free person-centered counseling on topics such as care options, housing and health insurance. Advisors can perform benefits assessments and help individuals submit claims. They can also assist with appeals in the case of unfavorable decisions.
(800) 963-5337
Florida’s ADRC program operates as a bridge between individuals and the wide variety of support services offered for people with disabilities and older individuals by Florida’s Department of Elder Affairs. People can connect with ADRC advisors via the toll-free helpline or in a local office.
(866) 552-4464
Individuals can connect in person or via the telephone with a knowledgeable advisor from Georgia’s ADRC to learn about local support services. The program operates throughout the state and serves people with disabilities, older adults and their family members. Services include benefits screenings and assistance, Medicare counseling and needs assessments.
(808) 643-2372
adrc@doh.hawaii.gov
The team at Hawaii ADRC links individuals with disabilities and older adults with long-term supports and services in their local area. Managed by the Hawai’i Executive Office on Age, ADRC advisors signpost to programs such as the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program, the State Health Insurance Program, dementia information and healthy aging programs.
(877) 471-2777
icoa@aging.idaho.gov
Partnering with local Area Agencies on Aging, disability agencies, the 211 CareLine and the Department of Health and Welfare, the ADRC gives information and tools to ensure people get the help and support they need to live as independently as possible. The resource center also has information and programs for caregivers and families.
The Aging and Disability Resource Network maintains a valuable online database of support services for seniors and people with disabilities across the state. Individuals can also discuss their individual concerns and situations with a trained advisor to be connected with appropriate services and programs.
Indiana
INConnect Alliance
(800) 713-9023
Members of staff at INConnect Alliance provide information about support services. Individuals can discuss housing options, including assisted living and nursing facilities as well as remaining at home with appropriate support services and modifications. The organization gives insights into care planning and recommends resources tailored to meet unique needs.
(866) 468-7887
ADRC staff members advise seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, family members and caregivers about appropriate programs and supports in their locale. The aim is to enable people to live with dignity and with as much independence as possible. Members of the public can contact an advisor by telephone or in person at their nearest AAA.
(855) 200-2372
ADRC advisors offer free options counseling and information to help people plan for their long-term care and supports. The center is also responsible for completing functional need evaluations for those who wish to apply for home- and community-based services as well as CARE assessments for individuals moving into a nursing home.
(877) 925-0037
chfs.listens@ky.gov
Kentucky ADRC operates in conjunction with the state’s Centers for Independent Living and Area Agencies on Aging to inform people with disabilities and older adults about the vast array of supportive services available to them. Programs include those related to financial assistance, in-home care, legal advice, abuse, home adaptations and transportation.
Louisiana
Louisiana Answers
(800) 280-0908
Louisiana Answers functions as the state’s ADRC. It provides a single-point of access for information about programs and services designed to help people with disabilities and seniors aged 60 and older. The goal is to enable individuals and their family members to resolve any unmet care and support needs. Topics include living with a disability, care options, financial assistance, paying for medications, caregiver support and access to advocacy.
(800) 262-2232
oads@maine.gov
The Office of Aging and Disability Services manages the departments of Intellectual and Developmental Disability, Adult Protective, Long-Term Care and Aging and Community. Relevant services include assistive technology, transportation, respite, home and community supports, therapy, personal care and engagement.
Maryland
Maryland Access Point
(844) 627-5465
Maryland Access Point is a one-stop shop for health and care needs. Individuals can use the online assessment tool to understand options that may be available to them or people can connect with an in-person advisor in their county office. Acting as the state’s ADRC, it offers person-centered counseling to inform, assist and empower disabled and older individuals.
Massachusetts
Executive Office of Elder Affairs
(800) 243-4636
information.resources@mass.gov
Partnering with many local organizations throughout the state, the Executive Office of Elder Affairs works to support seniors and adults with disabilities to age safety, comfortably and with dignity as part of the community. The office staffs an information and referral line to connect people with relevant services, including those related to nutrition, transportation, mental health, housing, in-home supports, public benefits and health insurance.
(517) 241-3740
Michigan Aging & Disability Resource Collaboration is Michigan’s no wrong door system, which helps disabled people and seniors access various support services. Staff provides information on topics ranging from home modifications and assistive technology to in-home care and financial assistance.
Minnesota
Disability Hub MN
(866) 333-2466
Disability Hub MN is a free statewide resource that informs people about support services and their varied options, helps people navigate the support system and assists with applications for programs. Individuals and their loved ones can chat online with an advisor or via the telephone.
Mississippi
Mississippi Access to Care Network
(844) 822-4622
Individuals can identify their care needs and access direct service providers via the statewide Mississippi Access to Care Network. Programs include various Medicaid waivers, the senior companion program, Medicare counseling, adult day care and the long-term care ombudsman. Caregiver services include family support and respite.
Missouri
Senior and Disability Services
(800) 235-5503
Senior and Disability Services is part of the Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services. Programs include those related to long-term care, home and community supports, adult day care, elder abuse, prescription drugs, nutrition and Alzheimer’s. Individuals can also connect with Adult Protective Services to report abuse, neglect and exploitation.
(800) 551-3191
The Information, Assistance and Referral service educates people about the wide range of programs and support services for adults with disabilities and senior citizens. Such services include social and health, crisis intervention, in-home assistance, transportation, health insurance counseling and mental health. Trained advisors also administer outreach services.
Nebraska
Aging and Disability Resource Center
(402) 441-7070
Managed by Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services’ State Unit on Aging, the ADRC links people with disabilities with various sources of support. It works in partnership with state and regional disability organizations as well as local Area Agencies on Aging.
(866) 536-5654
Nevada has several physical ADRC offices throughout the state where people can visit or call to obtain information and assistance. Staff members connect people to diverse services that enable them to remain living at home, such as home-delivered meals, accessibility modifications, assistive technology, home care services and wellness programs. They also advise on sources of financial assistance and care options.
New Hampshire
ServiceLink Aging and Disability Resource Center
(866) 634-9412
ServiceLink is New Hampshire’s statewide ADRC. As well as providing information and completing referrals, the center facilitates diverse educational workshops on disability- and aging-related topics. The website has a section dedicated to assistive technology in the state, covering resources, programs and publications.
New Jersey
Aging and Disability Resource Connection NJ
(877) 222-3737
Part of the Department of Human Services, the Aging and Disability Resource Connection provides information for seniors, people with disabilities and their caregivers. Disability resources include home and community services, financial assistance and a variety of health and wellness services, such as pharmaceutical assistance, health workshops, mental health and caregiver support. Individuals can also learn more about assistive technology resources, including vehicle modifications, home safety systems and text-to-speech programs.
New Mexico
Aging and Disability Resource Center
(800) 432-2080
Trained advisors from New Mexico’s ADRC provide free options and health insurance counseling as well as benefits screenings and application assistance. The center is responsible for administering Medicaid waiver programs. It’s also home to the Senior Medicare Patrol program, which protects people from scams. Employees advise on the state’s prescription drug assistance program.
New York
NY Connects
(800) 342-9871
Administered through various statewide agencies, NY Connects is a first-contact no wrong door service that connects New Yorkers with a range of supportive services. Staff members provide information and offer person-centered counseling on pertinent topics, such as benefits, housing and care options. The organization also seeks to educate the public about long-term support availability.
North Carolina
NCDHHS Disability Services
(800) 662-7030
Disability Services is part of North Carolina’s Department of Health and Human Services. It helps adults with disabilities find appropriate employment, informs as to benefit eligibility and advises on care options and providers. Other topics include community rehabilitation and in-home care. Programs include Independent Living for People with Disabilities, Assistive Technology and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
(855) 462-5465
carechoice@ND.gov
The Aging and Disability Resource-Link provides free and confidential advice about local support services. The resource helps caregivers and family members as well as people with disabilities and older adults. Advisors can help people find programs, direct services, facilities and support groups that operate in their local area. Online, people can search based on a particular service or by city.
The Ohio Association of Area Agencies on Aging is a statewide network of agencies that offer support services for older individuals and people with disabilities. The network also advocates at local, state and national levels to improve the lives of those it serves.
Oklahoma
Service Oklahoma Disability Services
(405) 522-7000
info@service.ok.gov
Disability Services provides a range of services designed to enhance quality of life for people with diverse disabilities. Transportation programs include disability placards for private vehicles and subsidized public transport. The agency provides diverse supportive technology, interpreters and in-home assistance. Advisors can help individuals find suitable employment and apply for benefits. Specialist assistance is also available for veterans.
(855) 673-2372
The Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon operates statewide to connect seniors and people with disabilities with appropriate supports and services. Individuals can learn more about programs related to in-home care and adaptations, employment, financial aid, prescription drugs, transportation and more.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Link to Aging and Disability Resources
(800) 753-8827
Pennsylvania Link to Aging and Disability Resources staffs a free information and advice hotline through which disabled and older adults, along with their loved ones, can find out about local services. Support services are designed to help people live independently at home or in the community, transition back to the community and maintain quality of life. Programs also seek to promote overall well-being, safety and happiness.
Rhode Island
The Point
(401) 462-4444
The Point provides tailored advice and information to people aged 55 or older and those with disabilities. Through statewide partnerships, advisors connect seniors with relevant services in their communities, including those related to financial assistance, in-home supports, long-term care, wellness, home-delivered meals, nutrition and abuse. The organization also advocates for people with disabilities and older adults, helping to influence laws and bring about positive changes.
South Carolina
GetCareSC
(800) 868-9095
GetCareSC runs a wide range of programs geared toward helping people with disabilities, seniors and their families. Individuals can check they are receiving all funding they’re eligible for, get help applying for benefits and take advantage of free and impartial Medicare counseling. People can access transportation programs to help them run errands and medical appointments, learn with food and nutrition programs and connect with adult advocates, such as the long-term care ombudsman.
South Dakota
Dakota at Home
(833) 663-9673
Operated by the South Dakota Department of Human Services, Dakota at Home is the state’s ADRC program. Individuals can get free assistance identifying suitable support services in their town or city. Knowledgeable advisors can connect people with both government and private assistance programs, and people may benefit from unbiased options counseling.
Tennessee
TN Commission on Aging and Disability
(615) 741-2056
Tennessee’s Commission on Aging and Disability runs programs that help seniors and people with disabilities. Examples include home- and community-based services, transportation assistance and nutrition schemes. The commission is home to the long-term care ombudsman and the public guardian as well as the State Health Insurance Assistance Program. Individuals can learn more about these and other programs by contacting staff members of the Information and Assistance Program.
(855) 937-2372
Part of the countrywide No Wrong Door system, Texas’ ADRC helps senior citizens, people with disabilities and family members navigate the long-term care and supports system. Individuals can learn more about eligibility requirements for particular programs and discuss various options available to them.
Utah
Utah Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Services for People with Disabilities
(801) 538-4200
The Division of Services for People with Disabilities oversees home- and community-based supports and care and also manages a range of support services for people with various disabilities. Services include Medicaid waivers, environmental adaptations, transportation, in-home assistance, behavior supports and day programs.
(800) 639-1522
info@vcil.org
Vermont Center for Independent Living delivers varied services to promote dignity and quality of life for people with disabilities. Home-bound individuals may benefit from home-delivered meals via the Meals on Wheels Program. Telephone equipment loans may enhance communication. Funding may be available to help people live independently in their own homes and the Home Access Program provides funding for accessibility modifications. The Deaf Independence Program provides resources for those who are deaf, deafblind or hard of hearing.
Virginia
Virginia No Wrong Door
(888) 992-0959
nowrongdoor@dars.virginia.gov
Virginia No Wrong Door is the state’s ADRC program, part of a national initiative to ensure all people with disabilities and older adults can access necessary supportive services in their communities. The program empowers people to make informed decisions related to their care, housing situation, service providers and similar.
Washington
Washington State Independent Living Council
(800) 624-4105
wasilc@dshs.wa.gov
Washington State Independent Living Council promotes useful resources for anyone living with a disability in Washington. The organization advocates on behalf of disability communities and raises awareness of issues that affect the community. It maintains a list of local Centers for Independent Living, through which individuals can access an array of direct services.
West Virginia
West Virginia Aging and Disability Resource Center
(866) 981-2372
adrc@wvstateu.edu
West Virginia’s ADRC makes it easier for individuals to access supportive services that can help them live more comfortably, independently and safely. All information and advice is free, unbiased and confidential.
Wisconsin
Aging and Disability Resource Center
Via local ADRCs
The Aging and Disability Resource Center is a program under Wisconsin Department of Health Services. It helps people with disabilities and older individuals identify suitable supports, including accessibility equipment and modifications, transportation, wellness programs, nutrition, home care and home health care services, dementia support, long-term care and financial assistance.
(800) 442-2766
Wyoming ADRC links people with services geared toward supporting people with disabilities, seniors, veterans and caregivers. Health and wellness services include dental care, medical care, prescription drug assistance, enrichment programs, companionship, mental health and food assistance. Individuals can learn about sources of funding, public benefits and health insurance, as well as emergency assistance. Other services include legal, home care, transportation, home modifications, case management and environmental adaptations.