As we get older, it’s normal to require more help and support. At CCA Health Michigan, we want to help our members age well and stay independent. The good news is no matter where you live, there are agencies and non-profit organizations dedicated to helping older adults in the community.

Each state has an agency dedicated to providing seniors with the support they need to live independently and thrive as they age. These agencies offer services that help seniors stay connected and live their best lives. Services include in-home support, nutrition assistance, adult day centers, legal advice, adult protective services, transportation, housing, and more.

Other programs offer financial assistance to low-income households to help with utility bills. For those caring for a loved one, there are special programs to support caregivers.

Food insecurity is a common concern among seniors. By working with community agencies, you can ensure your loved one’s nutritional needs are met.

In addition, a variety of in-home services are available to help seniors remain happy and independent. Services include home health visits, 24-hour crisis lines, and even companion programs.

We’ve put together this guide for our members in Michigan so you can have easy access to the services that will help you stay well and independent.

Community Resources in Michigan

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services: This agency provides a variety of services to help older adults live in the home of their choice for as long as possible. It offers help with in-home support services, access to community service agencies, nutrition services, and more. Call 517-241-3740 or click here.

MI Bridges: This state program offers a variety of benefits for residents of Michigan, including assistance with healthcare coverage costs, food assistance, and cash assistance to those who qualify. Click here for more information.

Food and Nutrition Assistance

• Michigan’s Home-Delivered Meals: This program provides nutritional meals to homebound individuals aged 60 and older or those living with disabilities. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging:
  • Genesee County: Call 810-239-7671 or click here.
  • Lapeer County: Call 810-239-7671 or click here.
  • Macomb County: Call 800-852-7795 or click here.
  • Monroe County: Call 800-852-7795 or click here.
  • Oakland County: Call 800-852-7795 or click here.
  • St. Clair County: Call 810-987-8811 or click here.
  • Wayne County: Call 313-446-4444 or click here.
• Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan: This non-profit provides nutrition for those in need through its partners and mobile distributions. Call 866-GLEANER (866-453-2637) or click here.
• Food Bank of Eastern Michigan: Provides nutritious foods through mobile distributions, food pantries, and soup kitchens. Call 810-239-4441 or click here.
• Michigan Meals on Wheels: Delivering healthy meals to homebound seniors. Call 810-632-2155 or click here. For county-specific resources:
• For Genesee County, a list of food pantries and food assistance resources is available here.
• The Stone Soup Food Bank (in Lapeer County) can be reached at 810-245-0500 or by clicking here.
• The Community Food Bank of Macomb County can be reached at 586-469-6004 or by clicking here.
• Lighthouse (in Monroe County) can be reached at 248-920-6000 or by clicking here.
• For Oakland County, information about food access programs can be found by calling 248-215-6307 or by clicking here.
• Blue Water Community Access food assistance (in St. Clair County) can be reached at 810-987-7886 or by clicking here.
• The Wayne Metro Community Action Agency can be reached at 313-388-9799 or by clicking here.

In-Home Care Support Programs

Michigan’s Home Help program is designed to support individuals who wish to live independently in their home. For an overview of services and a list of local county Michigan Department of Health & Human Services offices that can connect you or your loved one with help, click here.

Help with Utility Bills

The State of Michigan Energy Assistance Plan offers help to individuals who are having trouble paying for their heating costs. Call Michigan’s 211 line or go to this website to learn about agencies in your county that may assist with your energy bill.

Healthcare

• Medicare counseling: The Michigan Medicare Assistance Program provides free counselors for Medicare recipients. Call 800-703-7174 or click here.
• Insurance coverage: This site contains everything you need to know about Michigan’s healthcare coverage.
• Prescription drug assistance: Michigan offers a variety of programs to provide free medications or help offset the cost of prescription drugs for those who are eligible. Click here to learn more about these programs.

Disaster Relief and Recovery Centers

The FEMA Helpline can be reached at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 711). Video Relay Service is also available.

Michigan Emergency Management and Homeland Security is responsible for coordinating disaster relief and recovery efforts in the state. Contact the Michigan Emergency Management Association here.

Caregiver Support: Childcare and Elder Care

There are several programs available for caregivers in Michigan. Click here to learn more.

Elder Abuse Reporting

Call 855-444-3911 to report elder abuse.

Transportation

Seniors and disabled riders in Michigan have a range of transportation options. Mobility Managers can help people find the best option for them. Click here for more information.

Legal Advice

The Legal Hotline for Older Michigan Citizens provides Michigan residents aged 60 and older with advice on issues such as Medicare and Medicaid, Social Security, medical bills, wills and probate, real estate, personal injury, landlord/tenant relations, family, and automobiles. The hotline can be reached at 800-347-5297. 

Mental Health and Substance Use

• Crisis: Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or having thoughts of suicide. This 24/7 hotline has counselors available and is confidential and free of charge. 
• Warmline: The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services offers a warmline for support for individuals with mental health conditions, manned by certified peer support specialists. It can be reached at 888-733-7753.
• The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services provides a listing of publicly funded substance use disorder treatment, problem gambling counseling, and mental health counseling programs in each county. Click here.

Volunteer Opportunities

• The Michigan Community Service Commission coordinates volunteer efforts with community partners throughout Michigan. Learn more or sign up on this website.
• Each local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) offers a variety of volunteer opportunities. Contact your local AAA for more information.
  • Genesee County: Call 810-239-7671 or click here.
  • Lapeer County: Call 810-239-7671 or click here.
  • Macomb County: Call 800-852-7795 or click here.
  • Monroe County: Call 800-852-7795 or click here.
  • Oakland County: Call 800-852-7795 or click here.
  • St. Clair County: Call 810-987-8811 or click here.
  • Wayne County: Call 313-446-4444 or click here.