A Federal Agency Supporting Older Adults and People with Disabilities in Living Independently in the Communities of Their Choice
The Administration for Community Living (ACL) is an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that supports programs, grants, and information and referral systems to help older adults, people with disabilities, families, and caregivers live and participate as independently as possible in their own homes and communities rather than in institutional settings. The Administration on Aging (AoA) is part of ACL. |
| Everyday Question | System Supported by ACL | Assistance You May Be Connected To |
|---|---|---|
| I want to continue living at home, but I need help | Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) / No Wrong Door | In-home support, counseling on long-term services and supports options, and connections to local agencies |
| I am concerned about my parents’ meals and transportation | Aging Network / Eldercare Locator | Meals, transportation, in-home services, and connection to an Area Agency on Aging (AAA) |
| I am exhausted from providing long-term care | Family caregiver support / Lifespan Respite | Family caregiver education, counseling, respite care, and connections to local resources |
| Medicare is too complicated | State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) / Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) | Free insurance counseling and assistance applying for low-income support programs |
| There is a problem at a long-term care facility | Long-Term Care Ombudsman | Support for residents’ rights and assistance resolving complaints and problems |
| I want to find local programs related to dementia or chronic conditions | Brain health / dementia / evidence-based health promotion programs | Education, self-management, community programs, and support systems |
