SilverBeacon · Find help
Who to call, and what they do
Many kinds of professionals help families through the transitions of aging, and many free services exist that families never hear about. Here is who does what, when to call them, and how to find one.
If it's urgent
- Medical emergency or immediate danger: call 911.
- Emotional crisis, for you or your loved one: call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Veterans can press 1.
- Abuse, neglect or exploitation of an older adult: contact your local Adult Protective Services. The Eldercare Locator can connect you.
- Scams or fraud: National Elder Fraud Hotline, 1-833-372-8311.
Start here: free local help
One call can open many doors
Start here: free local help
One call can open many doors| Eldercare Locator | A free national service that connects you to your local Area Agency on Aging and other services: meals, rides, caregiver support, legal aid. Call 1-800-677-1116 or visit eldercare.acl.gov. |
| Area Agency on Aging | Your county or regional office for aging services. It can explain local programs and who qualifies. |
| 211 | Dial 211 for local help with food, housing, utilities and other needs. |
| SHIP Medicare counseling | Free, unbiased help choosing and using Medicare, from trained counselors in every state. In California it is called HICAP. Find yours at shiphelp.org. |
Professionals who can help
What each one does, and when to call
Professionals who can help
What each one does, and when to call| Aging Life Care professional (geriatric care manager) | Assesses needs, makes a care plan, finds and coordinates services, and guides the family. Helpful when family lives far away or decisions are piling up. Usually paid privately by the hour. Find one at aginglifecare.org. |
| Elder law attorney | Powers of attorney, health care documents, Medicaid planning, conservatorship and protection from exploitation. Find one through the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys at naela.org. |
| Estate planning attorney | Wills, trusts and beneficiary planning. Many also prepare powers of attorney and advance directives. |
| Primary care doctor or geriatrician | Overall health, medications, memory concerns and referrals. A geriatrician specializes in the care of older adults. |
| Hospital social worker or discharge planner | Plans the move from hospital to home or rehab and arranges services. Ask to meet them early in any hospital stay. |
| Occupational therapist | Checks home safety and helps with daily tasks like bathing and dressing. Ask the doctor for a referral. |
| Driver rehabilitation specialist | Evaluates driving safety and suggests changes or training. Find one through ADED, the Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists. |
| Home care agency | Provides paid helpers for personal care, meals and company. In California, caregivers who work for agencies must be listed on the state Home Care Aide Registry. |
| Home health, hospice and nursing homes | Compare Medicare-certified providers, with ratings and inspection results, at Medicare's Care Compare (medicare.gov/care-compare). |
| Financial planner or tax professional | Long-term care costs, cash flow and taxes. Ask whether they are a fiduciary, meaning they must act in your loved one's best interest. |
| Long-term care ombudsman | A free advocate for people living in nursing homes and assisted living, who helps resolve problems and complaints. Every state has one. |
SilverBeacon is building a directory of partner professionals who use our guides with families. Learn about partnering with us.
National helplines
Numbers worth saving in your phone
National helplines
Numbers worth saving in your phone| Eldercare Locator | 1-800-677-1116 · local aging services |
| Alzheimer's Association | 800-272-3900 · 24 hours a day, for anyone affected by dementia |
| 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline | Call or text 988 · any time |
| National Elder Fraud Hotline | 1-833-372-8311 · U.S. Department of Justice |
| VA Caregiver Support Line | 1-855-260-3274 · for people caring for a veteran |
| Medicare | 1-800-633-4227 (1-800-MEDICARE) |
| Social Security | 1-800-772-1213 |
Choosing well
Questions to ask any professional or agency
Choosing well
Questions to ask any professional or agency- What are your credentials, and are you licensed or certified in this state?
- How do you charge, and what will the first month likely cost?
- Do you receive commissions or referral fees from anyone you recommend?
- Who will we actually work with day to day, and how do we reach you after hours?
- Can you share references from families in a similar situation?
A good sign: they ask about your loved one's goals and routines before suggesting services.
Related toolComing Home ChecklistPlan care at home step by step, from wishes to choosing caregivers.
Related guideWhat family caregivers need to knowFirst steps, money, work and caring for yourself.
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SilverBeacon does not endorse any listed organization, and listings are for general information. Phone numbers and services can change; check with each organization. Sources: Eldercare Locator; SHIP National Technical Assistance Center; Aging Life Care Association; National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys; ADED; Medicare Care Compare; National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center; National Elder Fraud Hotline; VA Caregiver Support Program; 988 Lifeline. See our Disclaimer & Privacy Statement.