Need help accessing care for an older adult, disabled person, or yourself? Here’s how to get started.
- Try the Eldercare Locator.
This is a free tool that connects you to support in your community (transportation, housing, legal aid, etc.) and your local Area Agency on Aging. Visit eldercare.acl.gov or call 1-800-677-1116 - What’s an Area Agency on Aging?
These agencies offer services like adult day care, caregiver training, respite care, and support groups, they can also help you apply for programs like Medicare & Medicaid. - Pro tip: These programs can also connect you to care resources for people under 65.
Medicare and Medicaid
These programs can provide *some* support to people who give and receive care. So what’s the difference?
- Medicare is for adults 65+ and those with certain disabilities. It covers doctors appointments, prescription medications, and palliative care.
- Medicaid is for low-income people and disabled people. Unlike Medicare, it provides long-term care, including home care, but has strict income limits and long waiting lists for some services.
- Visit medicare.gov & medicaid.gov for more info.
Other support resources
- Health Organizations
- Condition-specific organizations can provide info and connect you with support groups. Try searching the internet for the name of the health condition plus the word “association,” “foundation,” or “organization.”
- Support Groups
- Ask medical professionals, friends, family, and caregivers close to you if they know of any online or in-person support groups. You can also search the internet and social media for groups in your local community.
Share these resources with your friends & family!
