Senior benefits in Coosa County, Alabama

The East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission (EARPDC) runs the Area Agency on Aging for 10 counties in east Alabama, including Coosa County. Its Aging and Disability Resource Center helps adults 60 and older, people with disabilities, and family caregivers find services. Programs include senior centers and meals, Alabama Cares caregiver support, Medicaid Waiver in-home help, SHIP Medicare counseling, SenioRx prescription help, legal help for older adults, the long-term care ombudsman, and senior jobs. Call 256-237-6741 or 1-800-239-6741, or the Alabama Ageline at 1-800-243-5463.

Estimated service value: $200–$2,000 a year

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay home heating and cooling bills. In Coosa County, LIHEAP applications are taken by the Community Action Committee of Chambers-Tallapoosa-Coosa. Household income must not be more than 150% of the federal poverty level, and the program targets older adults, people with disabilities, and young children. Call 256-825-4287 to ask how to apply or to check on an application. ADECA, the state office, does not take applications. Help depends on available funds.

Estimated bill savings: $280–$1,100 a year

Coosa County has no hospital. Russell Medical in Alexander City gives free or discounted care for emergency and medically necessary services. People with family income at or below 350% of the federal poverty guidelines can get a sliding-scale discount of 20% to 100%. Patients who qualify are not charged more than insured patients are generally billed. Call Patient Financial Services at 256-329-7136 to apply or get an application.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Coosa County's rural public transit gives demand-response rides within the county, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. With enough notice, it also drives to Montgomery, Alexander City, Birmingham, or Tuskegee for kidney dialysis. Rides within the county cost $1.50 each way. Call 256-794-8257. In northeast Coosa County, Goodwater's service can be reached at 256-839-5653.

Estimated service value: $150–$1,500 a year