Aging and Disability Resource Centers

Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) serve as single points of entry into the long-term services and supports (LTSS) system for older adults, people with disabilities, caregivers, veterans and families. Some states refer to ADRCs as “access points” or “no wrong door” systems.

The vision behind ADRCs is to establish, in every community, highly visible and trusted sources of information where people of all incomes and ages can turn for the full range of long-term support options and smooth access to public long-term support programs and benefits. Rather than new entities or bricks-and-mortar locations, ADRCs build on the state and community’s existing resources on aging and disability. On the aging side, locally this means Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). Nearly two-thirds of AAAs perform ADRC functions in their communities according to USAging's 2022 National Survey of AAAs.

ADRCs provide unbiased, reliable information and counseling to individuals with all levels of income. They assist a wide range of individuals, including family caregivers, in accessing LTSS in the most desirable and appropriate setting. Since ADRCs do not limit their services to low-income individuals, they can help families of all income levels get the help they need as well as to utilize their resources more wisely, which may delay or prevent “spend-down” to Medicaid or unnecessary institutionalization.

Originally a program of the Administration on Aging (AoA), ADRC work is now supported by AoA’s umbrella within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Administration for Community Living (ACL), as well as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Veterans Administration (VA). For more on ADRCs, see the resources listed below.

Resources


USAging Fact: Learn about your peers’ work—and how it can fit into your agency’s goals! The AIA Awards recognizes successful and innovative programs that USAging members have developed to serve older adults. Get inspiration from our 2023 winners!