Stamford Senior AdvisorWho is the Area Agency on Aging for Fairfield County?
Two agencies serve the county: Southwestern Connecticut Agency on Aging in Bridgeport (203-814-3698) for the shoreline and lower county, and Western Connecticut Area Agency on Aging in Waterbury (203-757-5449) for the Danbury area and Shelton.
If unsure, call CHOICES at 1-800-994-9422 and you will be routed to the right one.
Where can we get free Medicare counseling?
From CHOICES, Connecticut's State Health Insurance Assistance Program, at 1-800-994-9422.
Counselors can compare plans and screen for help with premiums.
How do we apply for the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders?
Call DSS at 1-800-445-5394 and press 4 to make a referral; TTY users can call 1-800-842-4524.
Have a list of daily needs, medications, income and assets ready.
Who do we call about suspected elder abuse?
DSS Protective Services for the Elderly at 1-888-385-4225 for anyone 60 or older, and 911 if the situation is life-threatening.
Scams and financial exploitation can also go to the Attorney General's Elder Justice Hotline at 860-808-5555.
Who advocates for residents of nursing homes and assisted living?
Connecticut's Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, free and confidential, at 1-866-388-1888 or 860-424-5200.
It also serves residents of residential care homes.
Where do we file a complaint about a care provider?
With DPH's Facility Licensing and Investigations Section through its online complaint form or 860-509-7400.
Keep notes with dates and names.
Is there local help in each town?
Yes: every Connecticut town has a municipal agent for the elderly, usually at the senior center or social services office, who can connect residents with local programs.
Senior centers also run transportation and meal programs.
Who helps veterans with VA pension claims?
The Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs and accredited veterans service officers help with claims free of charge.
Avoid anyone who charges a fee to file a VA pension application.
Is there free legal help for older adults in Fairfield County?
Yes: Connecticut's legal services programs offer free civil legal help to eligible older adults, including on benefits, housing and nursing home discharges, and the Area Agencies on Aging can make referrals.
For estate and Medicaid planning, private elder law attorneys are the usual route; ask about fees up front.
Is there help with transportation to medical appointments?
Yes: town senior centers, dial-a-ride services and mobility managers offer rides in most Fairfield County towns, and HUSKY members can arrange non-emergency medical transportation through the state's broker.
Ask the town's municipal agent for the elderly which services operate locally.
Where can caregivers find support groups?
The Area Agencies on Aging, hospitals and the Alzheimer's Association's Connecticut chapter run caregiver programs and support groups across the county.
Many meet online as well as in person.
