Senior benefits in Norfolk County, Massachusetts

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) is the Area Agency on Aging for Norfolk County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to ASAP services: services at home (home care), nutrition/home-delivered meals, caregiver support, adult family care, behavioral health, elder-abuse protective services, health insurance and budget guidance, community housing options. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-508-584-1561 to get started.

Estimated service value: $500–$6,000 a year

Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Norfolk County pay home heating bills from November 1 through April 30, with extra protection against winter shut-offs. The Commonwealth funds the program, and Quincy Community Action Programs (QCAP) - Heating Assistance takes applications for this county. Homeowners and renters can qualify, including renters whose heat is included in rent. Call 617-479-8181 ext 354 to apply.

Estimated bill savings: $300–$1,000 a year

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Norfolk County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at South Shore Hospital (Weymouth) for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. South Shore Hospital's billing page: 'You may be eligible for financial assistance through a public assistance program, including Connector Care Plans, MassHealth, and Health Safety Net' - financial counseling at 781-624-4329. The statewide Health Safety Net covers eligible low-income patients at all Massachusetts acute-care hospitals (https://www.mass.gov/info-details/health-safety-net-for-patients). Other Norfolk hospitals: Beth Israel Deaconess-Milton and Beth Israel Deaconess-Needham (BILH).

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

MBTA serves Norfolk County with MBTA Red Line, commuter rail, and buses serve Quincy, Braintree, and much of Norfolk County; Senior CharlieCard gives roughly half-price one-way fares. The RIDE ADA paratransit (https://www.mbta.com/accessibility/the-ride, TRAC 844-427-7433) covers the MBTA district. Older adults and people with disabilities can use reduced fares or demand-response rides for medical appointments, shopping, and other essential trips. Rides are free or low-cost depending on the service. Call 1-617-222-3200 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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