Care Guide
Memphis Senior Resources and Services Directory
"Senior resources serving Memphis — the Aging Commission of the Mid-South, senior centers, transportation, meal programs, legal aid, and Medicare counseling."
David Thompson, LPN, Certified Care Manager
Elder Care Coordinator
Reviewed by Carol Bradley Bursack, NCCDP-certified — Owner of Minding Our Elders
1 min read
·
Updated May 13, 2026
Memphis has stronger senior services infrastructure than most families realize. the Aging Commission of the Mid-South, senior centers, community meal programs, transportation services, legal aid, Medicare counseling, and Tennessee-specific aging-services programs all serve the Memphis area. Most are free or low-cost. the Aging Commission of the Mid-South at https://www.agingcommission.org is the comprehensive starting point.
the Aging Commission of the Mid-South — your first call
The Area Agency on Aging is the federally-funded local hub for senior services. Services typically include:
- Information and referral for all Memphis-area senior services
- National Family Caregiver Support Program (limited free respite hours)
- Congregate and home-delivered meals
- Transportation programs
- Legal aid for seniors
- Medicare counseling (SHIP/SHINE)
- Elder abuse prevention
- Tennessee-specific aging initiatives
Senior centers in Memphis
Memphis-area senior centers offer free or low-cost drop-in programs:
- Daily congregate meals (often $2–$5 with sliding scale)
- Activities — bingo, cards, fitness, classes
- Health and wellness programs
- Volunteer opportunities
- Transportation to and from the center
- Medicare counseling
Drop-in — no licensing or care plan required. Best for mobile, mostly independent seniors.
Transportation and meals in Memphis
the Aging Commission of the Mid-South coordinates:
- Senior transportation (paratransit, volunteer driver programs)
- Home-delivered meals (Meals on Wheels)
- Congregate meal sites at senior centers
- Tennessee’s nutrition programs
Medicare counseling in Memphis
Free, unbiased Medicare counseling through Tennessee’s SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) or SHINE in some states. Counselors help with:
- Medicare Advantage vs Original Medicare decisions
- Part D prescription plan selection
- Medigap supplemental policy review
- Annual open enrollment
- Appeals and grievances
Free service — funded by federal grants. Access through the Aging Commission of the Mid-South.
Legal aid for Memphis seniors
Most Memphis-area Area Agencies on Aging fund legal aid for seniors:
- Power of attorney drafting
- Advance directive preparation
- Elder abuse and exploitation cases
- Medicare/Medicaid appeals
- Housing and landlord issues
- Consumer fraud and scam recovery
Services free for income-eligible Memphis seniors.
If you’re new to Memphis senior services, start with a 20-minute call to the Aging Commission of the Mid-South. Talk to an ElderCareServicesNearMe advisor if you’d like help navigating.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Aging Commission of the Mid-South free for Memphis seniors?
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Most services are free for qualifying seniors and family caregivers — including initial intake, information and referral, and most NFCSP respite hours. Some supplemental services have small fees or income guidelines. The exact menu varies by AAA. Memphis families confirm what's free in a 20-minute intake call.
How do I find a senior center near me in Memphis?
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Start with the Aging Commission of the Mid-South at <a href="https://www.agingcommission.org" rel="noopener" target="_blank">https://www.agingcommission.org</a>. They maintain the comprehensive Memphis-area senior center directory. Tennessee's Department of Aging website lists state-funded centers. Local libraries and churches often host senior programs that aren't formally classified as senior centers but offer similar engagement.
How does Meals on Wheels work in Memphis?
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Home-delivered meals to homebound Memphis seniors typically 5 days/week. Eligibility based on age (60+) and inability to prepare own meals safely. Coordinated through the Aging Commission of the Mid-South or partner organizations. Donations accepted but not required — service is funded by federal NFCSP funds plus local donations. Some sliding-scale fees apply in certain Memphis markets.
Can I get free legal help for elder care issues in Memphis?
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Yes, for income-eligible seniors. the Aging Commission of the Mid-South typically funds legal aid programs covering power of attorney, advance directives, Medicaid appeals, housing issues, and consumer fraud. Services free for qualifying Memphis seniors. For complex matters (estate planning, complex Medicaid planning), consider hiring an elder law attorney — most charge $300–$500 for an initial consultation.
What is SHIP and how does it help Memphis Medicare beneficiaries?
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SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) is a federal program providing free, unbiased Medicare counseling. Tennessee's SHIP serves Memphis through trained volunteers and staff. Counselors help compare Medicare Advantage plans, evaluate Part D prescription coverage, select Medigap supplements, and handle appeals. Access through the Aging Commission of the Mid-South or your state's SHIP office. Free service.
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