Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs)
The Department of Elder Affairs administers programs and services for elders across the state of Florida through 11 Area Agencies on Aging, which operate as Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs). These ADRCs function as a single, coordinated system for information and access to services for all Floridians seeking long-term care resources. The ADRCs provide information and assistance about state and federal benefits, as well as available local programs and services. See below to contact your local ADRC.
By sharing a common information and referral system, the ADRCs are able to provide elders with uniform assistance no matter where they live. This system also offers the public access to a statewide database of local community resources, available on the internet or by calling the Elder Helpline toll-free at 1-800-96 ELDER (1-800-963-5337).

Primary Functions:
- Provide information and referral services.
- Ensure that eligibility determinations are done properly and efficiently.
- Triage clients who require assistance.
- Manage the availability of financial resources for certain key long-term care programs targeted for elders to ensure financial viability and stability.
Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs)
In April 2004, the Department received a federal grant from the U.S. Administration on Aging and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to establish at least two pilot Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs). As a result, Aging and Disability Resource Centers in the Orlando, St. Petersburg and Fort Lauderdale areas began providing services to caregivers, elders and adults with severe and persistent mental illnesses (SPMI) in the summer and fall of 2005.
Florida’s ADRCs provide information and referral not only to elders, but also to adults age 18 and older who have SPMI (such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or clinical depression). The ADRCs enhance the existing mental health referral network. Information and referral specialists are trained to refer callers to mental health providers if they indicate that they have a severe and persistent mental illness or if the specialist discerns that the inquiry may be related to SPMI.
With the support of an ADRC expansion grant funded by the U.S. Administration on Aging, the Department has partnered with the developmental disability community and the Agency for Persons with Disabilities. Through this partnership, ADRC services are being offered in two Florida locations to persons with developmental disabilities age 50 and older, and their family caregivers age 55 and older. This initiative will support the expansion of the ADRC based in St. Petersburg and the transition of the Fort Myers based Aging Resource Center into an ADRC.
Resources
To apply for services, call 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337) or contact your local Aging and Disability Resource Center. (PSA = Planning and Service Area)