Frequently Asked Questions

What does Ocean County Office of Senior Services do?

Welcome to Senior Services, also known as the Area Agency on Aging (AAA).

Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for older adults aged 60 years and older. Working closely with community agencies, we provide essential programs and services to over 21,000 seniors annually. As the county’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC), we’re here to assist not only older adults but also caregivers, family members, and individuals with disabilities. Whether you need information, access to benefits, or community-based alternatives, we’re your resource. ??

Feel free to ask if you’d like more details or have any other questions related to our services!

What is the mission of Ocean County Office of Senior Services?

At Senior Services, our unwavering commitment is to empower older adults with essential information about services and programs. These initiatives enhance their well-being, promote health, and bolster their independence, ensuring they can age gracefully right here in Ocean County.

What services are available through your office?

We serve as a comprehensive resource hub, offering information on transportation, housing, PAAD (Pharmaceutical Assistance for the Aged and Disabled), Senior Gold, Medicare, Medicaid, Energy Assistance, Senior Centers, Property Tax Relief programs, Caregiver Resources, Home Delivered Meals, and a wealth of other essential services.

I need minor repairs done at my house. Is there help for me?

Discover our volunteer-based programs designed to assist older adults in maintaining safe and comfortable homes. Dedicated volunteers perform minor home repairs and chores, including tasks like installing grab bars, widening doorways, repairing windows, and setting up smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Additionally, they construct handicap ramps to improve accessibility. If you’d like more information, don’t hesitate to give us a call!

What transportation services are available to seniors in Ocean County?

Ocean Ride offers both fixed bus routes and reserve-a-ride services. You can find schedules at the County Connection, conveniently located in the Ocean County Mall, or visit their website at https://www.co.ocean.nj.us/transportation/. For more details, feel free to call 732-736-8989. Additionally, if you’re interested, our website provides a transportation packet with various options. And don’t forget to explore the resource directory for additional transportation choices throughout Ocean County!

Transportation rev. 2021.pdf

I have questions about my health insurance, Medicare, and/or Medicaid. Where can I get help to understand my benefits?

At our office, we have certified SHIP (State Health Insurance Program) counselors who specialize in assisting with Medicare-related inquiries. Whether you’re curious about different Medicare plans, need help navigating the options, or want to enroll in a prescription drug plan, our counselors are here to guide you.

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free assistance to New Jersey Medicare beneficiaries who encounter challenges or have questions about their health insurance. And remember, if you’re considering enrolling in Medicare health and drug plans, mark your calendar for the Open Enrollment period, which runs from October 15 to December 7.

Feel free to reach out if you need any further information or have additional questions! ??

I am over 60, and need a home health aide. How can I learn about my options?

As the number of older adults, many of whom have disabilities, continues to increase each year, the need for resources to support older adults becomes greater and greater. Ocean County offers a variety of programs and resources for older adults.
The links below contain information about supports for older adults:

https://www.co.ocean.nj.us//WebContentFiles//Caregivers.pdf

https://www.co.ocean.nj.us//WebContentFiles//CaregiverResources.pdf

https://www.nj.gov/disabilities/resources-by-life-stages/older-adults/index.shtml

I am caring for an older adult and am finding it difficult to manage everything. Is there any help out there for me?

Caregivers have access to both income-based programs designed to provide support and volunteer programs that don’t depend on income. If you’re seeking relief as a caregiver, consider exploring these options. Additionally, you can reach out to the Care2Caregivers Helpline at 1-800-424-2494 to find a support group.

Remember, caregiving can be challenging, and it’s essential to seek out resources and connect with others who understand your journey. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!

https://www.nj.gov/disabilities/resources-by-life-stages/caregivers/index.shtml

I am having a hard time shopping and cooking. Is there any help for me?

If you find yourself homebound and unable to prepare your own meals, Home Delivered Meals can be a great option. However, if you’re still able to cook but need assistance with grocery shopping, there are programs available to help. Check out our Resource Directory or give us a call to find out more about the services offered.

I am having a hard time paying for my prescriptions, is there any help to help cover the cost?

NJSave is an online application to help low-income older adults and individuals with disabilities save money on Medicare premiums, prescription costs, and other living expenses. Click on the link below to access the application.

https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/l-p/njsave/index.shtml

Programs Accessed Through NJSave
NJSave enrolls eligible applicants into the following programs:

Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD)
Senior Gold Prescription Discount Program
Lifeline Utility Assistance
Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB & QI)
Medicare Part D's Low Income Subsidy (LIS, also known as "Extra Help")
Hearing Aid Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (HAAAD)
The application is also used to screen individuals for numerous savings and assistance programs. If it looks like they may qualify, their data is forwarded on for enrollment.

These programs include:

Universal Service Fund (USF)
Low-Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Finally, individuals who qualify for PAAD and Lifeline Utility Assistance through NJSave may also be eligible for:

Property Tax Freeze
Reduced Motor Vehicle Fees
Low-Cost Spaying/Neutering
NJ Hearing Aid Project

2021 PAAD and Senior Gold Comparison Chart.pdf

I am looking for housing, I do not know where to begin.

Looking over the housing guide is a great place to start. There are many options such as subsidized housing, where you can call the property to be placed on their waiting list. If you are looking to move to the area, we have an extensive list of the adult communities located in Ocean County.

Adult Communities 2020-2021.pdf

Housing Guide 2020- 2021.pdf

Is there an age requirement for your services and programs?

Under the provisions of the Older Americans Act, our services primarily focus on individuals aged 60 and over. However, we also extend support to caregivers, family members (including sons, daughters, and relatives), as well as spouses who require caregiver assistance. Additionally, the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) serves as an essential resource for individuals with disabilities.

How can I sign up for your newsletter?

Click the link below to sign up for our digital newsletter.

https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/J3x4HDp

Newsletter Sign up

Is there a fee/charge for your services?

At Ocean County Senior Services, all our services are provided free of charge. Our funding comes from multiple sources, including federal support through the Older Americans Act, state funds, and a substantial contribution from the Ocean County Board of Commissioners.

		Director John P. Kelly has been an Ocean County elected official since 1993. He was sworn into his 11th three-year term on the Board of Commissioners during the Board’s organization meeting Jan. 4, 2023. Read more
		Deputy Director Frank Sadeghi was sworn to his first three year term on the Ocean County Board of Commissioners during the Board’s reorganization meeting Jan. 3, 2024. A successful businessman and a long-time public servant, Commissioner Sadeghi brings years of leadership experience to the Board. Read more
		Commissioner Virginia E. "Ginny" Haines, a lifelong resident of Ocean County, brings years of public service and leadership experience to the Board of Commissioners. She was sworn into her third three-year term on the Board during its organization meeting Jan. 4, 2023. Read more
		Commissioner Robert S. Arace was sworn into his first three-year term on the Ocean County Board of Commissioners during the Board’s 2025 organization meeting on Jan. 6. A lifelong resident of Ocean County, Commissioner Arace is deeply committed to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and family-friendly community. Read more
		Commissioner Jennifier Bacchione was sworn to her first three-year term on the Ocean County Board of Commissioners during the Board’s Jan. 6, 2025 Organization Meeting. Read more
Michael J. Fiure, County Administrator 101 Hooper Ave. Admin Building Toms River, NJ 08754 Phone: (732) 929-2147 \| Email: MFiure@co.ocean.nj.us
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Frequently Asked Questions

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