Family Caregiver Resources for Pennsylvania
En español | Caregiving may be one of the most important, and challenging, roles you’ll ever take on. No matter where you are in your caregiving journey — starting to plan; taking care of a family member in your home, in a facility, or from a distance; or managing end-of-life caregiving responsibilities — having resources at your fingertips will make the process easier.
AARP developed this family caregiver guide with you, the caregiver, in mind and as a starting point to help you find the services and support you might need throughout your journey.
To order a print copy of this online guide, call the toll-free AARP Family Caregiving Resource Line at 877-333-5885 and indicate which state(s) you would like to receive. A copy will be mailed to you.
Caregiver Support
Pennsylvania Caregiver Support Program 717-783-1550
Supports caregivers with information, training, counseling and financial reimbursement for certain out-of-pocket expenses related to their caregiving duties. Or contact your local area agency on aging.
Pennsylvania Department of Aging (717-783-1550)
Provides information for family caregivers about various services including counseling, support groups, respite care, supplemental services to complement care, and caregiver training to assist in making decisions and solving problems relating to their caregiving roles.
Pennsylvania Living Independence for the Elderly (833-472-5433)
Connects adults 55-plus with information, training and resources related to caregiving, social services and respite care.
Finances
Department of Human Services (800-692-7462)
Provides programs and resources for older adults with disabilities long-term care services and supports, including heating and food assistance and financial and housing help, among other services.
PACE Prescription Assistance Program (800-225-7223)
Offers low-cost prescription medication to qualified residents aged 65 and older.
Health
APPRISE – Medicare Counseling (800-783-7067)
Provides free consultations related to Medicare and Medicare
Supplemental Insurance, Medicaid and long-term care insurance to older adults.
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (800-783-7067)
Provides one-on-one counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families. The agency can help with understanding health care options, obtaining benefits and filing claims.
Housing and Care Facilities
Long-Term Care Ombudsman (717-783-8975)
Provides consumer protection advocacy services to residents of long-term care facilities such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, specialty care facilities and boarding homes. Anyone can use an ombudsman to report a concern and get help resolving problems, including residents, residents’ family members and friends, and long-term care facility employees.
OPTIONS Program (717-783-1550)
Helps eligible residents 60+ develop in-home care plans and manage personal care, meals, medical transportation and home modifications.
PA Housing Finance Agency (855-827-3466)
Offers affordable homeownership and rental apartment options for older adults, low and moderate- income families and people living with disabilities.
Legal
Older Pennsylvania Legal Assistance Program (717-783-1550)
Offers free legal counseling and representation to adults 60-plus on abuse, age discrimination and housing issues.
Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network Inc. (800-322-7572)
Offers legal assistance and information to low-income individuals and families.
Pennsylvania SeniorLAW Helpline (877-727-7529)
Confidential hotline offers legal advice and referrals to adults 60-plus.
Information and Services
Transit Program for Seniors (717-783-8025)
Provides free public transportation to residents over age 65.
Pennsylvania Link to Aging and Disability Resource Center (800-753-8827)
Connects older and disabled citizens with access to long-term care supports related to care, medication, nutrition, insurance, housing and transportation, and other services for them to continue to live as independently as possible.
Pennsylvania Office of Veterans Affairs (717-861-8910)
Helps veterans and their families access federal, state and local resources and benefits.
Shared-Ride Program (717-783-8025)
Coordinates and provides curb-to-curb shared-ride services for adults 65-plus at a low cost.
