You have aging questions, and we have aging answers.
With one call to 800‑994‑9422, you’ll be connected to a highly trained Information Specialist ready to help you find the support you need. Our Specialists can assist with navigating housing options, understanding Medicare and Medicaid insurance and eligibility, locating your senior activities center, home delivered meals, accessing support for someone with dementia, or addressing any other question related to aging and disability. For individuals with more complex needs, SWCAA’s service navigators can provide short-term case management and navigation to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable adults.
SWCAA is federally funded through the Older Americans Act, which means we do not sell any products or services. All information provided is unbiased, objective, and offered at no cost to the individual.
Aging Answers responds to more than 800 calls each month. Just leave your name and number on our voicemail line, and a Specialist will return your call within 72 hours.
Aging Answers Programs
Every stage of life brings its own challenges. At Aging Answers, we can help answer some of the questions and challenges that come with growing older. Should I continue driving? Where can I met people my age? What options do I have if I can no longer manage my medications? Aging Answers is government-funded. This means we can give you the unbiased, accurate information and guidance you need. Call us at 800-994-9422 and let our Information Specialists and Service Navigator help you age well!
CT’s Program for Health Insurance, Outreach, Information & Eligibility
The CHOICES program is Connecticut’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), offering free, unbiased, and confidential information and counseling to older adults, persons with disabilities, and their caregivers. Our knowledgeable CHOICES staff and trained volunteers are here to help you navigate a wide range of topics, including:
- Medicare & Medicare Advantage Plans
- Medigap (Supplemental) Insurance
- Medicaid
- Medicare Savings Program
- State & Federal Assistance Programs
- Long-Term Care Insurance
- Durable Medical Equipment
- Homecare Services
- Transportation
- Housing Options
- Respite & Caregiver Resources
Whether you’re turning 65 and exploring your options, comparing plans to find the best fit, or trying to understand available benefits and programs — CHOICES can help you make informed decisions with confidence.
If you’re seeking home healthcare or housing options for yourself or a loved one, give us a call at 203-333-9288. We’re here to answer your questions and guide you to the right resources.
CHOICES Counselors in Your Community
In addition to our dedicated CHOICES team at SWCAA, experienced counselors are available throughout the region at senior centers, housing complexes, libraries, and other community sites.
If you are interested in becoming a CHOICES Counselor and helping others in your community, contact:
📞 Katie Wheeler at 203-814-3639 or ✉️ kwheeler@swcaa.org.
You can also download the CHOICES Volunteer Description Sheet (PDF).
About the Program
The CHOICES program is funded in part by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. It operates in cooperation with the Connecticut Department of Social Services, Elderly Services Division, and the Center for Medicare Advocacy, and is administered by Connecticut’s five Area Agencies on Aging.
This project was supported in part by grant number 90SAPG0068-01-00 from the U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL). The views expressed do not necessarily represent official ACL policy.
The Southwestern Connecticut Agency on Aging (SWCAA) administers two state-funded programs that provide financial support and relief to caregivers in 14 towns across Fairfield County. These programs give caregivers a much-needed break from the daily challenges of caring for a loved one, offering flexible services that can be adjusted as needs change.
- Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program (CSRP): For individuals with a doctor’s diagnosis of Dementia living in the community, cared for by an informal caregiver. Offers up to $7,500 per grant year in respite services.
- National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP): For caregivers assisting someone age 60 or older, providing up to $3,500 per grant year in services.
Both programs require an application and in-home assessment, and a cost-share contribution is requested.
Sometimes, you need more than a question answered. Complex systems like Medicaid can take weeks to navigate and complete an application. You may come to SWCAA seeking help with meals. Our Service Navigators will assess you for other programs and services that can greatly improve your financial position. Service Navigators peel the onion to discover all of the benefits that add quality to your life.
The Veterans Administration of Connecticut (VACT) contracts with SWCAA to provide the Veterans Care Program. This program is subject to VACT eligibility and approval. If eligible, a Veteran may use family, friends and others to provide personal care while being reimbursed for their work. Call 800-994-9422 for more information.
See how Aging Answers can help you.
Browse through our applications and trusted resources or call us directly at 800-994-9422.