Senior benefits in El Paso County, Colorado

The Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments is the Area Agency on Aging for El Paso, Park, and Teller counties, including El Paso County. It provides Older Americans Act programs for adults 60 and older and their caregivers — the Senior Information and Assistance Center, senior insurance (Medicare) counseling, the Family Caregiver Support Center, mobility coordination, and the long-term care ombudsman. Call the Senior Information and Assistance Center at (719) 471-2096.

$200–$2,000/yr

El Paso County residents can apply for the Colorado Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP), which helps pay part of winter heating costs. Apply November 1 through April 30 online at Colorado PEAK or with a paper application, or call 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435). For questions about El Paso County Human Services programs, call the general information line at (719) 636-0000. Income limits are on the statewide LEAP record.

$200–$1,000/yr

Uninsured and underinsured residents of El Paso County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central in Colorado Springs for emergency and medically necessary care. Free or discounted care is based on household income and size under the UCHealth financial assistance policy. Call UCHealth Financial Counseling at 855.843.3547 or apply online.

Silver Key's Reserve & Ride gives rides to anyone 60 and older in Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, and nearby communities — to medical appointments and physical therapy, grocery shopping, social activities, and worship services. Wheelchairs, walkers, and oxygen tanks can be accommodated. A $5 contribution is suggested, but no one is turned away for inability to pay. Register once, then book rides at 719-884-2300.

$150–$1,500/yr