Senior benefits in Plymouth County, Massachusetts

Old Colony Elder Services, Inc. is the Area Agency on Aging for Plymouth County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Services at home (home care), nutrition/Meals on Wheels, caregiver support, adult family care, behavioral health, community housing options, elder-abuse protective services, health insurance & budget guidance. 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 Plymouth County pay home heating bills from November 1 through April 30, with extra protection against winter shut-offs. The Commonwealth funds the program, and Self Help, Inc. takes applications for this county. Homeowners and renters can qualify, including renters whose heat is included in rent. Call 1-508-588-5440 to apply.

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

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Plymouth County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. Quote: 'For information on Financial Assistance or Counseling, call 508-941-7919.' 680 Centre Street, Brockton (main 508-941-7000); page hosts the FA policy, plain-language summary and MassHealth application PDFs. The Plymouth-town side of the county is served by Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth (BILH), financial assistance page https://bidplymouth.org/patients-visitors/billing-financial-services/assistance, billing questions (508) 830-2057. Massachusetts also runs the statewide Health Safety Net for eligible low-income patients (cited separately at the state level).

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Brockton Area Transit Authority (BAT) serves Plymouth County with BAT fixed-route and Dial-A-BAT/ADA paratransit are currently fare free (BAT Flex microtransit is $1.50/trip), so no senior fare or age applies. Plymouth/Wareham-area routes (Freedom Link, Liberty Link, Mayflower Link, SAIL, Wareham links) are run by GATRA, which is also fare free through June 30, 2027 per https://www.gatra.org/2026/07/30/fare-free-service-june-30-2027/ ('GATRA Fixed Route and ADA Complementary Paratransit Services will continue to be Fare Free through June 30, 2027.'). 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 1-508-588-1000 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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