How to Start an Alachua County Aging or Disability Needs Screening
Use the regional Elder Helpline to screen for home help, meals, caregiver support, transportation, benefits, and long-term-care routes.
Start here
Call the Elder Options Helpline at 800-262-2243. Elder Options is the state-designated Aging and Disability Resource Center serving older adults, adults with disabilities, caregivers, and families in Alachua County.
Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
See Elder Options servicesWhat to have ready
- Alachua County address and a safe callback number
- A one-sentence description of the need and what changed
- Any notice, application, denial, bill, or deadline involved
- Language, mobility, communication, and accommodation needs
Words you can use
“I need a needs screening for an Alachua County resident. Please screen for home help, meals, respite, transportation, benefits, and long-term-care options, and tell me what starts each application.”
Steps in order
- 1
Call or use the official intake route and lead with the immediate need.
- 2
Ask what eligibility, documents, assessment, and current funding or capacity apply.
- 3
Record the staff name, reference number, next action, and follow-up date.
- 4
Use the listed backup route if the program is closed, full, or not the correct door.
If the first answer is no or wait
Availability, funding, eligibility, and wait times can change. Ask for the reason in writing when possible, preserve every deadline, and dial 211 or call Alachua County at 352-374-5204 to locate another current route.
Official sources
Sources checked August 9, 2026. Confirm eligibility, hours, cost, service area, and current availability directly.
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