Your State Unit on Aging: The Secret Resource for Senior Care Savings (A Step-by-Step Guide)
A State Unit on Aging (SUA) is a government office that manages federal Older Americans Act funds to provide:
- Free/reduced-cost senior services
- Caregiver support programs
- Protection against elder abuse
Did You Know?
- Every $1 invested in SUA programs saves $3 in Medicaid costs (AARP)
- 73% of eligible seniors miss out due to a lack of awareness
We’re like a concierge for aging services—but most families don’t know to call us.
Step 1:
Find Your SUA
- Google: [Your State] State Unit on Aging
- Call: Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116)
Step 2:
Qualify for Benefits
- No strict income limits for most programs
- Priority groups:
- Seniors 60+
- Caregivers
- Veterans
Step 3:
Apply
- Documents needed: ID, proof of residency
💡 Pro Tip: Ask about "no wrong door" policy (they’ll route you to all eligible services)
Program | What It Covers | Annual Value |
|---|---|---|
Home-Delivered Meals | 14+ weekly meals | $2,800 |
Caregiver Salary | Pays family caregivers | Up to $3,000/month |
Emergency Home Repairs | Ramps, grab bars | $5,000 lifetime |
Respite Care Vouchers | 40 hours of free care | $1,600 |
Health Insurance Counseling | Saves on Medicare drugs | $900 avg. annual savings |
How the Texas SUA Helped Diane Keep Her Husband Home Despite Dementia
Red Flags (How to Spot Scams)
- "Pay us to help apply" (SUA services are FREE)
- Fake "SUA" calls asking for SSNs (Real SUAs never cold-call)
- [Find Your SUA’s Phone Number]
- Prepare These 3 Documents:
- ID
- Recent utility bill
- List of medications
Ask About:
- "Aging and Disability Resource Centers" (local offices)
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I’ll never forget the moment my grandfather, a once-vibrant storyteller, sat silently in his chair, lost in the fog of early dementia.