Options Counseling FAQs

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Is there an age requirement to receive services?

Yes. In most cases, people must be 60 or over to qualify for services. There are some exceptions. For example, the MI Choice Medicaid Waiver Program is available to people 18 and over who are medically and financially eligible to have Medicaid pay for their long-term care support services.

How will I know what I am eligible to receive?

Each program and service have a unique funding source and different eligibility requirements. When you call our office, our Access and Eligibility Specialists will ask you a few questions to help you determine which programs and services you are eligible to receive.

Do older adults have to be low-income to qualify for services?

No, there no income guidelines for most services. The Older Americans Act states that everyone who is 60+ is eligible for assistance. *Exception, to be eligible for the MI Choice Medicaid Waiver program you must be Medicaid eligible.

Do older adults have to pay for services?

No. For most services, donations or cost-sharing are requested, but not required. However, there are many services available that can also be purchased privately, and our Access and Eligibility Specialists can provide information on those services.

Are services available to all who need them?

No. Since funding is capped rather than open-ended, there are times when applicants are placed on a waiting list. In many cases, participants are limited in the number of hours of service they can receive to allow for more people to be served.

What is the difference between the Area Agency on Aging and the County Commission or Council on Aging?

The Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Michigan (AAANM) serves a ten-county region. AAANM generally provides limited services directly to participants. Most often, we work to connect participants to programs, resources, and supports in your community. Most services are provided by an array of over 50 providers in the Region. A Commission or Council on Aging serves one county.

What services are available through the Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Michigan and your partner service providers?

Click here to view a list of services available. Keep in mind that every service may not be available in all areas of Region 10. Our Access and Eligibility Specialists can provide information on which services are available in your area and who provides them.

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