Senior benefits in Lauderdale County, Alabama

The Northwest Alabama Council of Local Governments (NACOLG) is the Area Agency on Aging named by the Alabama Department of Senior Services for Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Marion and Winston counties, including Lauderdale County. It helps adults 60 and older, people with disabilities, and family caregivers find services. Its Aging and Disability Resource Center is a single place to start, even if you do not know which program you need. Services include senior centers, meals, Alabama Cares caregiver support, the long-term care ombudsman, senior jobs, SenioRx prescription help, SHIP Medicare counseling, and Medicaid Waiver in-home help. Call 256-389-0531 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 Lauderdale County, LIHEAP applications are taken by the Community Action Agency of Northwest Alabama. Household income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, and older adults and households with children get priority. Call 256-764-5142 to make an appointment, or call the Lauderdale County office at 256-766-4330. Walk-in utility applications are not taken. Help depends on available funds.

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

North Alabama Medical Center in Florence offers charity care and financial assistance, with free or reduced-charge care for eligible patients who cannot afford to pay. Read the Notice of Availability on the hospital's website, then fill out the Application for Charity/Financial Assistance. The completed application and all requested documents must arrive within 14 days. Call 256-629-1172 for help with the application or to set up an in-person appointment.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

NACOLG Dial-a-Ride is shared public transportation open to anyone. It takes riders from their pickup place to their destination in ADA-accessible vehicles. In Lauderdale County it serves the area within 10 miles of Florence. Rides in rural parts of the county may be offered at a variable rate when vehicles and drivers are available. Rides run 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Book up to two weeks ahead, and no later than 3:00 p.m. the business day before. One-way fares start at $3; pay the driver with exact change. A personal care attendant may ride free. Call 256-314-0047 or toll-free 833-314-0047.

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