As Iowa’s population ages, more older Iowans face legal challenges that put their health, housing, and independence at risk.
Iowa Legal Aid works to increase access to legal help for older adults—addressing issues such as medicaid and medicare, nursing home facilities, social security, veterans benefits, wills and estates, and advanced directives/powers of attorney.
The Hotline for Older Iowans
Since 1998, the Hotline for Older Iowans has been the first stop for seniors seeking legal assistance. The Hotline provides quick and effective legal advice and refers cases needing further help to one of Iowa Legal Aid’s regional offices.
In addition to legal guidance, Hotline staff often identify non-legal needs and connect callers with programs and services that support their basic well-being.
Hotline staff use a broad approach to reach older Iowans, including:
Direct legal services (advice, negotiations, and representation)
Community legal education
Outreach events
Referrals to human services
The Hotline also trains Area Agencies on Aging and community partners to help them better understand and identify legal issues affecting seniors.
Rural Justice Project for Older Iowans
In 2022, Iowa Legal Aid launched the Rural Justice Project for Older Iowans to improve access for older adults in underserved rural areas. Staff visit communities to assess legal needs, often identifying problems seniors didn’t realize had legal solutions. The program also helps older Iowans prepare for or recover from natural disasters.
2024 Impact on Iowa’s Seniors
In 2024, Iowa Legal Aid served 4,718 people aged 60+ through 3,308 closed cases. The oldest client was 103.
41% of cases involved housing
33% involved income or public benefits
9% were family-related
17% addressed other legal needs, such as
Of those helped, 63% had disabilities, 62% were women, and 477 were veterans. The total financial benefit secured for clients exceeded $1 million, providing critical support for basic needs.