About us

Get to know Aging and Disability Services

The mission of Aging and Disability Services (ADS) is: Maximizing opportunities for the independence and well-being of people with disabilities and older adults in Connecticut.

ADS creates programs, policies, and services to:

Meet the changing needs of people in Connecticut
Lead important work on aging and disability issues across the state
Connect services like jobs, education, independent living, accessibility, and advocacy
Stand up for the rights of people with disabilities and older adults
Provide helpful information and resources across the state

ADS was created in 2011 by bringing several disability programs together into one agency. In 2017, the Department on Aging joined ADS. This helped make services more connected and easier to use.

To learn more about ADS, you can explore its programs, offices, and leadership team.

Contact ADS

Our core values

Integrity

We interact honestly and fairly with all others, adhering to strong ethics, values and principles.

Respect

We value and recognize others for their unique skills, talents and contributions, and are considerate in all interactions.

Professionalism

We are mindful of our daily conduct and strive to have the highest work standards with a courteous attitude.

Open communication

We encourage the sharing of information and knowledge in an accurate, honest and supportive way.

ADS service bureaus

Aging

We oversee federal and state aging services programs within Connecticut.

Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing Services

We provide services for residents who are deaf, DeafBlind, or are hard of hearing to live and work independently.

Disability determination services

We determine medical eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income programs.

Education and Services for the Blind

We provide services for residents who are blind, DeafBlind, or have low vision to live and work independently.

Rehabilitation Services

We help people with disabilities to train for work, find a job and thrive in their careers. We also provide services to help them live independently.

Long Term Care Ombudsman Program

Have a concern about a skilled nursing facility, residential care home, or assisted living facility? The Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) advocates for residents’ rights, care, and well-being.

Administrative bureaus and units

Human Resources

The HR Unit is tasked with supporting ADS employees and providing guidance when needed.

Legislative and Legal

This includes the Legislative Liaison and the Staff Attorneys, who advise ADS on matters of law and legislation.

Organizational Support

ADS’s primary business unit, supporting all of the agency’s programs with accounting and contracting services.

Public Information and Communications

Your main contact for all ADS outreach: media, social media, and web. This office also handles Freedom of Information requests.

Meet ADS Senior Leadership

Commissioner Amy Porter

Meet Commissioner Amy Porter, the driving force behind ADS. Her leadership reflects our core values of integrity, respect, professionalism, and open communication. Commissioner Amy Porter is committed to enhancing the independence and well-being of Connecticut's older adults and people with disabilities. She has championed innovative approaches and inclusive solutions. Her focus is on honest, fair interactions and recognizing the unique contributions of every individual. Commissioner Porter embodies the spirit of ADS in every endeavor.

Interested in working with ADS?

Check out our Careers page for information on careers with Aging and Disability Services. Find out more about job openings, how to apply, potential career paths, and more.

Advisory Groups

Want to get involved? Join our Advisory Groups! They provide many benefits to ADS and the state of Connecticut by studying issues, plans, and policies, and encouraging open communication and advocacy between the department and the communities we serve. Information on membership can be found on each group’s page.