One of the most important things we do at The Elder Beat is connect you with what is actually available right here in Happy Valley and Clackamas. Whether you are searching for a government program, a local nonprofit, or a neighborhood business that makes daily life a little easier, this page is your starting point. The Elder Beat has gathered a directory of organizations and services that support older adults and their families right here in Happy Valley and Clackamas — from federal and state agencies like Medicare and the Oregon Department of Human Services, to community organizations like AARP, to local businesses that bring groceries, medications, and other essentials right to your door.
We have organized these resources by category so you can find what you need quickly and easily. This directory is a living document — we add new resources regularly and we welcome your suggestions. If you know of a service, organization, or local business that belongs here, please reach out and let us know. This is your community, and this page belongs to all of us.










CATEGORY 1 — Government Agencies and Programs
Federal and state programs that provide benefits, financial assistance, healthcare coverage, and legal protections for older adults.
Area Agency on Aging — Clackamas County
The Area Agency on Aging coordinates and advocates for services that support older adults and people with disabilities in Clackamas County. Programs include care coordination, caregiver support, nutrition services, and assistance navigating the complex landscape of senior services. The AAA serves as an important local bridge between residents and the full range of state and federal programs available to them.
Website: clackamas.us/socialservices/committee_aaa
Clackamas County Social Services
Clackamas County Social Services administers a range of local programs designed to support older adults, people with disabilities, and low-income residents in our community. Services include assistance with housing stability, food access, emergency financial aid, and referrals to county and state programs. Residents can contact the county directly to learn what programs may be available to them.
Website: clackamas.us/socialservices
Oregon 211
Oregon 211 is a free statewide information and referral service connecting residents with local health and human services. By calling 2-1-1 or visiting the website, older adults and caregivers can quickly find assistance with food, housing, transportation, healthcare, financial aid, and much more. The service is available in multiple languages and is accessible around the clock by phone.
Website: 211info.org
Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS)
The Oregon Department of Human Services is the state agency responsible for licensing and inspecting long-term care facilities, administering in-home services, and connecting older adults with benefits and support programs. ODHS is an essential resource for anyone researching assisted living communities, in-home care options, or financial assistance programs. Their Aging and People with Disabilities program serves residents across all Oregon counties including Clackamas.
Website: oregon.gov/odhs
Medicare
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for adults age 65 and older, as well as younger individuals with certain disabilities. It covers hospital stays, doctor visits, prescription drugs, and a range of preventive services. Medicare’s official website offers a plan finder tool, coverage information, and resources for comparing supplemental insurance options.
Website: medicare.gov
Medicaid / Oregon Health Plan
Oregon Health Plan is Oregon’s Medicaid program, providing health coverage for qualifying lower-income older adults and individuals with disabilities. It covers a broad range of medical services including long-term care, in-home support, and prescription medications. Eligibility is determined by income and other factors — the Oregon Department of Human Services can help you apply.
Website: oregon.gov/oha/hsd/ohp
Social Security Administration
The Social Security Administration manages retirement, disability, and survivor benefits for millions of Americans. Older adults can use the SSA website to check benefit amounts, apply for retirement or disability benefits, replace a Medicare card, and access their personal Social Security statement. The nearest SSA offices serving Happy Valley and Clackamas are located at 17925 SE Division Street, Portland, OR 97236 and 1830 Blankenship Rd, Suite 150, West Linn, OR 97068.
Website: ssa.gov
Administration for Community Living
The Administration for Community Living is the federal agency dedicated to supporting the independence and well-being of older adults and people with disabilities across the United States. ACL funds and oversees a broad network of programs — including Area Agencies on Aging, nutrition services, caregiver support, and elder rights initiatives — that reach communities like ours in Clackamas County every day. Their website is one of the most comprehensive sources available for understanding federal programs and resources for older Americans, and a valuable starting point for anyone navigating the landscape of senior services.
Website: acl.gov
CATEGORY 2 — Health and Medical Resources
Local healthcare providers, mental health services, and health information resources serving older adults in our community.
Adventist Health
Adventist Health provides care for every stage of your health journey including primary care, expert providers with innovative treatments, and urgent care. They offer convenient locations including an Eastside hospital and offices in Clackamas and Gresham. Their website and patient portal include a wealth of information to address patients’ every need, whether it be healing, comfort, spiritual, or financial.
Website: www.adventisthealth.org/portland/
Providence Health and Services
Providence is one of the most trusted names in healthcare in the Pacific Northwest, with hospitals, clinics, and specialty services serving Happy Valley and Clackamas residents. Whether you need a primary care physician, specialist, or same-day urgent care, Providence offers a wide network of providers who are welcoming new patients. Their website makes it easy to find a doctor, schedule an appointment, and manage your care online.
Website: providence.org
Kaiser Permanente
Kaiser Permanente offers integrated medical care and Medicare Advantage plans that many older adults in our area find convenient and cost-effective. With local medical offices and a robust online patient portal, Kaiser makes it straightforward to coordinate your care, refill prescriptions, and communicate with your care team. If you are reviewing your Medicare options, Kaiser’s senior plans are worth a close look.
Website: kp.org
Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU)
OHSU is Oregon’s premier academic medical center, offering specialty and subspecialty care that can be hard to find elsewhere in the region. For older adults dealing with complex or chronic conditions, OHSU’s geriatric medicine and specialty programs provide access to some of the state’s most experienced physicians and researchers. Their patient services team can help connect you with the right program for your needs.
Website: ohsu.edu
Clackamas County Behavioral Health
Mental health is just as important as physical health, and Clackamas County Behavioral Health Division offers counseling, crisis services, and support programs for older adults in our community. Their team understands the unique challenges that can come with aging — including grief, isolation, anxiety, and depression — and provides compassionate, professional care. If you or someone you love is struggling, reaching out is a meaningful first step.
Website: clackamas.us/mentalhealth
Oregon Prescription Drug Program
Prescription costs can be a significant burden for older adults on fixed incomes, and the Oregon Prescription Drug Program is designed to help. The program connects qualifying Oregonians with assistance programs, discount cards, and resources that can meaningfully reduce what you pay at the pharmacy. Their website includes a simple eligibility screening tool to help you find out what savings may be available to you.
Website: orpdp.org
Local Pharmacy Delivery Services
Many local pharmacies — including Fred Meyer Pharmacy, Walgreens, and CVS — offer prescription delivery services that bring your medications right to your door. This is a practical and valuable option for older adults who have difficulty getting to a pharmacy regularly, especially during inclement Pacific Northwest weather. Contact your local pharmacy directly to ask about delivery availability and any associated costs.
Website: Check with your local pharmacy
CATEGORY 3 — In-Home Care and Support
Services that help older adults remain safely and comfortably in their own homes.
Senior Companion Program
The Clackamas County Senior Companion Program supports homebound seniors and adults with disabilities. Trained Senior Companion volunteers meet one-on-one with elders, usually 1-2 times a week. Activities can include visiting, going to an activity at a senior center, go grocery shopping together, go to a movie, out for a coffee, help with small tasks at home, play a game, visit the library, go to a park, and so on. The program’s goal is to assist seniors so they can remain living safely in their home, feel connected and avoid having to move from what is familiar to them. To receive this service you must: 1) live independently in your home; 2) be ambulatory (walkers and canes are OK, wheelchairs are not); 3) need transportation at least once a week; 4) desire weekly companionship and support.
Website: clackamas.us/socialservices/companions
Oregon Home Care Commission
The Oregon Home Care Commission maintains a registry of screened and trained home care workers available to assist older adults and people with disabilities across the state. If you are looking for someone to help with personal care, household tasks, or daily living activities, the registry is a reliable and vetted starting point. The Commission also provides information about worker qualifications, background checks, and how to navigate the hiring process with confidence.
Website: oregon.gov/odhs/agency/pages/ohcc.aspx
Visiting Angels
Visiting Angels is a nationally recognized in-home senior care agency with local caregivers serving the Happy Valley and Clackamas area. Their services range from companionship and light housekeeping to personal care, medication reminders, and specialized support for seniors living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Families consistently appreciate their flexible scheduling and the consistency of having familiar, trusted caregivers in the home.
Website: visitingangels.com
Home Instead
Home Instead provides personalized in-home care designed to help older adults live safely and independently in the home they love. Services include companionship, personal care, meal preparation, transportation assistance, and specialized memory care support. Their local team works closely with families to develop a care plan that fits both the senior’s needs and the family’s budget and schedule.
Website: homeinstead.com
Comfort Keepers
Comfort Keepers takes a distinctive approach to in-home senior care, emphasizing what they call Interactive Caregiving — keeping older adults mentally and physically engaged while receiving the help they need. Services include personal care, homemaking, safety monitoring, and transitional care following a hospital stay. Their local office serves Happy Valley and Clackamas and is available to discuss your family’s specific situation at no obligation.
Website: comfortkeepers.com
Meals on Wheels
Clackamas County Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious, chef-prepared meals to homebound older adults in Clackamas County. Beyond the meal itself, the regular visits from friendly volunteer drivers provide a meaningful point of social connection for seniors who may otherwise spend long stretches of time alone. Eligibility and scheduling information is available on their website, and financial assistance is available for those who qualify.
Website: ccmow.org
Oregon Department of Human Services Home Care Services
ODHS administers several programs that help qualifying older adults receive personal care and household support in their own homes rather than moving to a care facility. Services may include assistance with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, medication management, and housekeeping, depending on the individual’s assessed needs. Contacting your local ODHS office is the first step toward finding out whether you or a loved one qualifies for in-home support.
Website: oregon.gov/odhs/home-care-consumers
Assisted Living Communities
There are seven assisted living communities in Happy Valley/Clackamas along with one independent living community. And there are other choices in nearby communities like Milwaukie, Gresham, and Oregon City. Check out our blog post dated May 1, 2026 for a listing of the communities closest to home, along with some suggestions for evaluating them based on your needs.
CATEGORY 4 — Transportation
Getting where you need to go — from medical appointments to grocery runs — without the stress.
TriMet
TriMet operates the public bus and MAX light rail network serving the Portland metro area, including routes connecting Happy Valley and Clackamas to destinations throughout the region. Older adults age 65 and over and people with qualifying disabilities are eligible for reduced fare cards, making TriMet an affordable option for everyday travel. Their online trip planner makes it easy to map out your route from door to destination, and customer service representatives are available to help if you need assistance getting started.
Website: trimet.org
Ride Clackamas
Clackamas County offers local transit options designed to help residents get around the county efficiently and affordably. The county’s transit services are particularly helpful for older adults who live in areas not well served by TriMet’s main routes. Visit their website or call their information line to learn about routes, schedules, and any special programs available to senior riders in Happy Valley and the surrounding area.
Website: rideclackamas.org
Transportation Reaching People
Clackamas County provides the Transportation Reaching People service for residents who are 65+ or have a disability. The program aims to assist individuals by promoting independent living. Transportation is provided free of charge to medical appointments, grocery shopping, and other essential errands. Donations are welcome. TRP can accommodate wheelchair users on most of their vehicles.
Website: clackamas.us/socialservices/transportation-reaching-people-trp
Ride Connection
Ride Connection provides free and low-cost rides to seniors and people with disabilities who live in Multnomah and Washington Counties. While it doesn’t offer rides to people who live in Clackamas County, it does offer the RideWise travel training program which provides public transportation training and support centered on the safe and independent use of public transportation.
Website: rideconnection.org
Uber
Uber is a convenient and widely used rideshare service that picks you up at your door and drops you directly at your destination — no parking, no waiting for a bus. The Uber app is available on smartphones and is straightforward to set up with a little help from a family member or friend if technology feels unfamiliar. For older adults who only travel occasionally or need a reliable ride to the airport, Uber is a flexible and reasonably priced option worth having in your toolkit.
Website: uber.com
Lyft
Lyft is another popular rideshare option that works similarly to Uber, offering on-demand rides from local drivers available throughout Happy Valley and Clackamas. Both Uber and Lyft are worth having installed on your phone so you can compare prices and availability before booking — rates can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Lyft also offers a program called Lyft Concierge that allows family members or caregivers to book and pay for rides on behalf of an older adult, which many families find especially helpful.
Website: lyft.com
American Cancer Society Road to Recovery
The Road to Recovery program connects cancer patients with volunteer drivers who provide free transportation to and from treatment appointments. For older adults undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or other ongoing cancer treatments, this program can be a tremendous relief — both practically and financially. Rides must be scheduled in advance, and availability varies by location, so it is worth contacting the local American Cancer Society office to learn more about coverage in Clackamas County.
Website: cancer.org/support-programs-and-services/road-to-recovery
CATEGORY 5 — Nutrition and Meal Services
Grocery delivery, meal programs, and nutrition services that support healthy eating at home and in the community.
Fred Meyer
Fred Meyer is a familiar fixture in Happy Valley and Clackamas, and their grocery pickup and delivery service makes it easier than ever to keep the kitchen stocked without making a trip to the store. Orders can be placed online or through the Fred Meyer app, with same-day delivery available in many areas. For older adults who find navigating a busy grocery store tiring or difficult, this is a practical and affordable solution from a trusted neighborhood retailer.
Website: fredmeyer.com
Safeway
Safeway offers grocery delivery and curbside pickup throughout the Happy Valley and Clackamas area, with a wide selection of fresh produce, pantry staples, deli items, and household essentials. Delivery can be scheduled for a convenient time window, and first-time customers often benefit from introductory offers that make the service especially affordable to try. Their website is straightforward to navigate, and customer support is available if you need help placing your first order.
Website: safeway.com
Instacart
Instacart is a grocery delivery service that connects you with personal shoppers who pick and deliver groceries from multiple local stores — including Fred Meyer, Safeway, Costco, and more — often within just a few hours. This flexibility makes Instacart particularly useful when you need items from more than one store or want to compare prices across retailers in a single order. Family members or caregivers can also place and pay for orders on behalf of an older adult, making it a convenient option for long-distance caregiving situations.
Website: instacart.com
DoorDash
DoorDash delivers restaurant meals and grocery items from hundreds of local businesses right to your front door, making it a convenient option when cooking feels like too much on a given day. The service covers a wide delivery area throughout Happy Valley and Clackamas, and many restaurants offer senior-friendly menu options at a range of price points. DoorDash also delivers from local grocery and convenience stores, making it useful for small fill-in shopping trips between larger grocery orders.
Website: doordash.com
Uber Eats
Uber Eats works similarly to DoorDash, offering restaurant and grocery delivery from a broad selection of local businesses in Happy Valley and Clackamas. If you are already using Uber for rides, Uber Eats is built into the same app — making it a natural addition without needing to set up a separate account. Delivery fees vary, and the app often features promotions and discounts that can make an occasional delivered meal a very reasonable treat.
Website: ubereats.com
Oregon Food Bank
The Oregon Food Bank works to eliminate hunger across the state by distributing food through a network of local food pantries, meal programs, and community partners in Clackamas County and beyond. Older adults on fixed incomes who are struggling to afford enough food are encouraged to reach out — accessing food bank services is nothing to be embarrassed about, and the people who work there genuinely want to help. Their website includes a simple tool for finding the nearest food resources in your neighborhood.
Website: oregonfoodbank.org
CATEGORY 6 — Senior Centers and Social Programs
Programs, centers, and organizations that help older adults stay active, engaged, and connected to their community.
Happy Valley Library
The Happy Valley Library is a remarkably rich and often overlooked resource for older adults, offering not only books but also free access to films, music, audiobooks, magazines, and digital resources that can be enjoyed from home. The library hosts many programs that appeal to seniors, including a book club, technology help sessions, and lifelong learning lectures. Library cards are free to all Clackamas County residents, and many materials can be delivered to your home through the library’s outreach services. The Library is a member of the Clackamas County Library System, so the holdings of other libraries in the system are available to patrons through interlibrary loan.
Website: happyvalleyor.gov/community/happy-valley-library
Happy Valley Parks and Recreation
Happy Valley Parks and Recreation offers a wide range of programs, classes, and community events for residents of all ages. For older adults specifically, the department offers chair yoga and Hatha yoga classes, wellness programming through Providence Basecamp (including free virtual tai chi and gentle yoga), nutrition classes, gardening classes, and organized day trips and outings. The department also coordinates Meals on Wheels delivery for homebound residents. Because the full program catalog skews heavily toward youth and family activities, older adults will find it most useful to look specifically for the yoga, wellness, gardening, and day trip listings rather than browsing the entire guide. Reach the department at 503-886-8415 or browse current programs and register online through the ACTIVENet portal at the link below.
Website: happyvalleyor.gov/services/parks-and-recreation-2/
North Clackamas Parks & Recreation District
North Clackamas Parks & Recreation District connects people to nature, activities, and each other through parks, programs, and community events in Milwaukie and the surrounding North Clackamas area. The district operates community centers, sports facilities, and the North Clackamas Aquatic Park, and offers fitness classes, enrichment programs, concerts in the park, and movies in the park throughout the year. A seasonal Discovery Guide outlines the latest programs and activities available. Note that discounted rates and early registration are available to residents within the district boundaries — check the district map on the website to confirm your eligibility.
Website: ncprd.org/
Clackamas County Senior Centers
Clackamas County is home to several senior centers offering a warm and welcoming place for older adults to gather, socialize, learn, and stay active. Programs vary by location but typically include fitness classes, arts and crafts, card games, educational workshops, day trips, and hot lunch programs. Whether you are looking for a regular social outlet or simply want to explore what is available in your neighborhood, your local senior center is a wonderful place to start.
Website: clackamas.us/socialservices/seniorresources
Clackamas County Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering is one of the most effective ways for older adults to stay engaged, find purpose, and build meaningful connections in the community. Clackamas County, the North Clackamas School District, and many nonprofits in the area offer volunteer opportunities across a wide range of interests and abilities — from delivering meals and driving neighbors to appointments, to mentoring young people and staffing community events.
Website: Contact local organizations directly.
Faith Community Programs
Many faith communities throughout Happy Valley and Clackamas offer programs and services specifically for older adults, including fellowship groups, volunteer visitor programs, transportation assistance, grief support, and meal programs. These programs are often open to everyone in the community regardless of religious affiliation, and they can be a wonderful source of connection and support for seniors who may be feeling isolated. We encourage you to reach out to congregations in your neighborhood to ask what they offer — you may be pleasantly surprised.
Website: Contact local congregations directly
CATEGORY 7 — Legal and Financial Assistance
Resources to help older adults and their families navigate legal rights, financial planning, and benefits.
Clackamas County Property Tax Deferral Program
If you are 62 or older and own your home in Clackamas County, you may be able to defer — meaning delay — paying your property taxes for as long as you live in the home. Oregon’s Senior Citizens’ Deferral program allows qualifying homeowners to have the state pay their property taxes on their behalf, with the deferred amount plus 6% annual interest becoming due only when the home is sold, ownership changes, or the owner permanently moves out. To qualify, your annual household income must not exceed $70,000 and your net worth must be under $500,000, not counting the value of your home. Applications are accepted between January 1 and April 15 each year. To learn more or to apply, contact the Clackamas County Assessment and Taxation office at 503-655-8671 and ask for the Senior Tax Deferral Clerk.
Website: www.clackamas.us/at/senior
Oregon State Bar Lawyer Referral Service
Finding the right attorney can feel overwhelming, and the Oregon State Bar Lawyer Referral Service takes the guesswork out of the process by connecting you with a qualified lawyer whose practice matches your specific legal need. Whether you need help with estate planning, a landlord dispute, a consumer protection issue, or any other legal matter, the referral service can point you in the right direction quickly and affordably. An initial consultation with a referred attorney is available for a modest fee, making it accessible for older adults on a fixed income.
Website: osbar.org
Certified Public Accountants
You might need the services of a CPA for a variety of reasons, from estate planning to investment management to taxes. There are two organizations that can be helpful in identifying the right CPA firm for you. The Oregon Society of CPAs has a Find-a-CPA Directory on their website that allows you to search for licensed professionals in your area and the particular service you’re looking for. And, before hiring someone, you can check their credentials using the Oregon Board of Accountancy Licensee Lookup to ensure their license is active and free of disciplinary actions.
Website: orcpa.org/find-a-cpa
Website: oregon.gov/boa/pages/licensee-lookup.aspx
Legal Aid Services of Oregon
Legal Aid Services of Oregon provides free civil legal assistance to low-income Oregonians, including older adults facing issues related to housing, benefits, consumer protection, family matters, and more. Their attorneys and advocates understand the challenges that older adults face and are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to justice regardless of their financial situation. If you are unsure whether you qualify for free legal help, their website includes an easy eligibility screening tool to get you started.
Website: oregonlawhelp.org
Oregon Division of Financial Regulation
The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers from financial fraud, predatory lending, and insurance abuses — issues that unfortunately affect older adults at a disproportionately high rate. If you have concerns about a financial product, insurance policy, or suspect you may have been the target of a scam, this agency is your advocate and your resource. Their website includes practical consumer guides and a straightforward complaint filing process for those who need to report a problem.
Website: dfr.oregon.gov
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide
Every tax season, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides free tax preparation assistance to older adults and low-to-moderate income individuals at locations throughout Clackamas County. Trained and IRS-certified volunteers help ensure that you claim every deduction and credit you are entitled to — which can make a real difference for seniors living on a fixed income. Appointments typically open in February each year, so it is worth checking the AARP website early in the season to secure your spot at a nearby location.
Website: aarpfoundation.org/taxaide
Oregon 211 Financial Assistance
Oregon 211 connects residents with local financial assistance programs covering a wide range of needs — from utility bill help and rent assistance to emergency food funds and prescription cost support. For older adults facing an unexpected financial hardship, 211 is often the fastest way to find out what local help is available and how to access it quickly. The service is free, confidential, and available by phone around the clock — simply dial 2-1-1 from any phone in Oregon.
Website: 211info.org
Oregon Long-Term Care Ombudsman
The Oregon Long-Term Care Ombudsman advocates for the rights and wellbeing of residents living in nursing facilities, assisted living communities, and other long-term care settings across the state. If you or a family member has concerns about the quality of care being received in a facility — including issues with staffing, treatment, finances, or living conditions — the Ombudsman’s office investigates complaints and works to resolve them on behalf of residents. Their services are free and confidential, and no concern is too small to bring to their attention.
Website: oltco.org
Benefits.gov
Benefits.gov is the official federal government website for finding and applying for federal benefit programs, including Social Security, Medicare, veterans benefits, housing assistance, and much more. The site’s benefit finder tool asks a series of simple questions and then generates a personalized list of programs you may be eligible for — many older adults are surprised to discover benefits they did not know were available to them. It is a worthwhile place to spend a few minutes, particularly if your financial situation has recently changed.
Website: benefits.gov
CATEGORY 8 — Nonprofits and Advocacy Organizations
Regional and national organizations that advocate for, support, and provide services to older adults and their caregivers.
AARP Oregon
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering older adults, and their Oregon chapter is an active and valuable presence in our community. Members enjoy a wide range of benefits including insurance discounts, travel savings, and access to financial and legal resources, but AARP’s advocacy work — fighting for policies that protect Social Security, Medicare, and the rights of older Americans — may be their most important contribution of all. Whether or not you choose to become a member, AARP’s website is packed with free tools, articles, and resources that any older adult or caregiver will find useful.
Website: aarp.org/oregon
American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society offers a broad range of programs and services for older adults living with cancer, including free rides to treatment through their Road to Recovery program, a 24-hour helpline, and connections to local support groups and lodging assistance. Their website is one of the most comprehensive sources of cancer information available, covering everything from understanding a diagnosis and navigating treatment options to managing side effects and planning for life after cancer. If cancer has touched your life or the life of someone you love, the American Cancer Society is a resource worth knowing well.
Website: cancer.org
National Council on Aging (NCOA)
The National Council on Aging is a respected national nonprofit whose BenefitsCheckUp tool has helped millions of older adults identify federal, state, and local benefit programs they may be eligible for but unaware of. Beyond benefits screening, NCOA offers programs focused on healthy aging, falls prevention, financial wellness, and caregiver support that are available to older adults across the country. Their website is thoughtfully designed with older adult users in mind — clear, accessible, and genuinely useful.
Website: ncoa.org
Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon
Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon is a Portland-based nonprofit providing education, support, and community to people living with Parkinson’s disease and their families throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington. Their programs include support groups, exercise classes specifically designed for people with Parkinson’s, caregiver workshops, and an information helpline staffed by knowledgeable staff who understand the day-to-day realities of living with the disease. For families navigating a Parkinson’s diagnosis in Clackamas County, this organization is an invaluable local ally.
Website: parkinsonsresources.org
Family Caregiver Support Program
The Clackamas County Family Support Program advocates for family caregivers, working to ensure that the people who care for older adults and individuals with disabilities have the support, resources, and recognition they deserve. Their website connects caregivers with training opportunities, respite care resources, and a community of others who understand the unique rewards and challenges of the caregiving role. If you are caring for an older adult in your life, knowing that this organization exists and is fighting for you can make a meaningful difference.
Website: clackamas.us/socialservices/respite
Disability Rights Oregon
Disability Rights Oregon is the state’s federally mandated protection and advocacy organization, providing free legal assistance and advocacy to Oregonians with disabilities — including many older adults whose conditions qualify them for protection under disability rights law. Their attorneys and advocates take on cases involving abuse and neglect, housing discrimination, access to services, and violations of civil rights in institutional settings. If you or a loved one has experienced discrimination or a violation of your rights as an older adult or person with a disability, Disability Rights Oregon is a powerful and accessible resource.
Website: droregon.org
CATEGORY 9 — Hospice and End-of-Life Resources
Compassionate organizations and services supporting older adults and families through serious illness and end-of-life planning.
Oregon Hospice and Palliative Care Association
The Oregon Hospice and Palliative Care Association is the statewide voice for hospice and palliative care, working to ensure that every Oregonian has access to compassionate, high-quality care at the end of life. Their website includes a searchable directory of licensed hospice and palliative care providers throughout Oregon, making it a valuable starting point for families beginning to research their options in Clackamas County and the surrounding region. They also offer educational resources to help older adults and families understand the difference between hospice and palliative care and know what questions to ask when evaluating providers.
Website: oregonhospice.org
Providence Hospice
Providence Hospice provides compassionate end-of-life care to patients and families throughout the Portland metro area, including Happy Valley and Clackamas. Their interdisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers works together to ensure that each patient’s final chapter is as comfortable, dignified, and meaningful as possible. Providence Hospice also offers bereavement support for family members both during and after their loved one’s care, recognizing that the needs of the whole family matter deeply.
Website: providence.org/hospice
End of Life Choices Oregon
Oregon was the first state in the nation to legalize medical aid in dying, and End of Life Choices Oregon provides education, advocacy, and support for Oregonians who wish to understand or exercise their rights under the Death with Dignity Act. Their website offers clear, straightforward information about eligibility requirements, the process for requesting aid in dying, and how to find a participating provider. Whether or not this option is one you are considering personally, understanding that it exists is part of being fully informed about end-of-life choices in Oregon.
Website: eolcoregon.org
Five Wishes
Five Wishes is a widely used advance directive document that goes beyond the standard legal requirements to capture not just your medical wishes but also your personal, emotional, and spiritual preferences for end-of-life care. Written in plain, accessible language rather than complex legal terminology, Five Wishes makes it easier to have honest and meaningful conversations with family members and healthcare providers about what matters most to you. Completing an advance directive is one of the most important and loving things an older adult can do for the people they care about, and Five Wishes makes the process as straightforward and human as possible.
Website: fivewishes.org
Grief Support — Dougy Center
The Dougy Center is a Portland-based nonprofit providing free support groups and resources for children, teens, young adults, and families grieving a death. While their programs focus significantly on younger grievers, they also offer resources and referrals for adults navigating loss and can connect older adults with appropriate grief support services in the Clackamas County area. Grief is a profoundly individual experience, and having a compassionate community of support can make an enormous difference in finding a path forward.
Website: dougy.org
Grief Support —Lines for Life
Lines for Life operates a statewide crisis and support line that includes services specifically for older adults experiencing grief, depression, or emotional distress. Their Senior Loneliness Line — reachable at 1-800-645-5ecret — connects isolated or grieving older adults with trained volunteers who offer a listening ear and a warm, unhurried conversation. For older adults who may not be ready for formal counseling but simply need someone to talk to, this free service is a gentle and accessible first step.
Website: linesforlife.org
CATEGORY 10 — Caregiver Support
Resources specifically for the family members, friends, and neighbors who care for older adults in our community.
Alzheimer’s Association Oregon Chapter
The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support, and research, and their Oregon chapter serves families throughout our region with education, support groups, and a 24-hour helpline staffed by specialists. Whether you are newly navigating a diagnosis, caring for a loved one in the later stages of the disease, or simply want to learn more about brain health and prevention, the Association’s local team is knowledgeable, compassionate, and genuinely helpful. Their annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s events in the Portland metro area are also a meaningful way to connect with others touched by this disease.
Website: alz.org/oregon
Online support community: https://alzconnected.org/
Family Caregiver Alliance
The Family Caregiver Alliance is a national nonprofit with one of the most comprehensive collections of caregiver resources available anywhere, covering topics from understanding specific medical conditions and managing difficult behaviors to navigating legal and financial decisions and taking care of your own wellbeing. Their website contains dozens of clearly written, practical guides on nearly every aspect of caregiving that families commonly face. For caregivers who want to be as informed and prepared as possible, the Family Caregiver Alliance website is genuinely indispensable.
Website: caregiver.org
AARP Caregiver Resource Center
AARP’s Caregiver Resource Center offers a rich collection of tools, articles, and community support specifically designed for the millions of Americans caring for an aging parent, spouse, or loved one. Their online community forums give caregivers a place to share experiences, ask questions, and find encouragement from others who truly understand what they are going through. AARP also offers a free Care Guide tool that helps caregivers assess their loved one’s needs and identify appropriate local services — a practical starting point for families just beginning to navigate the caregiving journey.
Website: aarp.org/caregiving
Oregon 211 Caregiver Services
Oregon 211 is an often-overlooked but tremendously useful resource for caregivers, providing free and confidential referrals to local services that can ease the caregiving load — from in-home support and adult day programs to transportation assistance, meal delivery, and emergency financial aid. Caregivers can reach 211 by phone around the clock, seven days a week, and speak with a trained specialist who can help identify the right resources for their specific situation. When you are not sure where to start, dialing 2-1-1 is always a good first step.
Website: 211info.org
Eldercare Locator
The Eldercare Locator is a free public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging that connects older adults and caregivers with local services anywhere in the country — simply by entering a zip code. Whether you are caring for a parent who lives nearby or coordinating care for a loved one in another part of the state or country, the Eldercare Locator can quickly identify relevant local resources including transportation, meal programs, legal assistance, caregiver support, and much more. It is a quietly powerful tool that more caregivers in Happy Valley and Clackamas should know about.
Website: eldercare.acl.gov
Caregiver Action Network
The Caregiver Action Network is a national nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life for the more than 90 million family caregivers in the United States. Their website offers practical tools, inspirational stories, and a supportive community for caregivers at every stage of the journey — from those just beginning to navigate a loved one’s diagnosis to those providing intensive daily care. Their Caregiver Help Desk connects caregivers with trained volunteers who can offer guidance, encouragement, and a compassionate ear when the road feels especially long.
Website: caregiveraction.org
The Elder Beat is a community information resource. Content is provided as a public service and does not constitute an endorsement of any individual organization or provider.
