Aging Services Access Point/AAA

Aging Services Access Points, commonly referred to as ASAPs, are one-stop entry points for all of the services and benefits available to seniors in Massachusetts. ASAPs manage the Massachusetts Home Care Program, Meals on Wheels, Money Management Program and Caregiver Support Program, as well as provide information and referrals for senior services such as home care, housing options, public benefits, legal assistance, hospice care, the ombudsman program, health insurance, senior companions and adult day care.

While most ASAPs also serve as federal Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), which receive and disburse federal funding under the Older Americans Act, the communities in the coverage area of Tri-Valley, Elder Services of Worcester Area, Inc. and Montachusett Home Care Corporation are served by the Central Massachusetts Agency on Aging.

Senior Center/Council on Aging

Councils on Aging (COAs) are local volunteer organizations that offer information and direct services to seniors, their caregivers and other people with aging issues. COAs are part of the local government, and work with other senior agencies and city/town departments to provide social, recreational, health, safety and educational programs for seniors in their communities. Most COAs operate Senior Centers for area residents age 60 or older. COAs are also home to each town’s SHINE Program representatives, who provide free, confidential and unbiased health insurance information, assistance and counseling.