Full Definition

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are locally operated organizations — funded through the federal Older Americans Act and administered in Texas by HHSC — that plan, coordinate, and often directly provide services for seniors and family caregivers. Texas has 28 AAAs covering every region of the state.

AAA services vary by region but typically include: information and referral for local senior services; benefits counseling (help understanding Medicare, Medicaid, and other programs); caregiver support programs; nutrition programs (Meals on Wheels coordination); transportation assistance; legal assistance referrals; and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program.

For families navigating senior care decisions in Texas, the local AAA is often an underutilized resource. Benefits counselors can help families understand what public benefits their loved one qualifies for. The AAA can often connect families with vetted local resources and community services that may delay or prevent a costly care transition.

Families can find their local AAA through the Eldercare Locator (eldercare.acl.gov) or by calling 2-1-1 in Texas. AAA services are generally free or low-cost for qualifying seniors, with many programs having no income requirements.