AAA Western MI 8 Information and Assistance Team

The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM), serving Region 8 around Grand Rapids, runs an Information and Assistance (I&A) Team that is the free, central point of access for older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers across the region — including those looking for assistive technology and equipment to support independent living.

I&A specialists assess each caller’s needs and connect them to the right mix of services: information and referral, care management, the MI Choice Medicaid Waiver for in-home long-term care, nutrition programs, caregiver education and respite, benefits counseling, and devices that improve safety and mobility. As the designated Area Agency on Aging for its service area, AAAWM has the knowledge and relationships to match families to programs quickly, replacing a frustrating solo search with expert guidance. A single contact can coordinate multiple supports tailored to a loved one’s situation.

This resource matters because the aging-services landscape is fragmented, and an I&A team exists precisely to cut through that complexity for local families. For western Michigan caregivers exploring assistive technology — or any other form of help — the team offers both direct assistance and a roadmap to sustainable care. Reach AAAWM by visiting aaawm.org or contacting the agency directly to speak with staff who can assess the situation and connect families to appropriate supports.