Senior benefits in Suffolk County, Massachusetts

Boston Senior Home Care is the Area Agency on Aging for Suffolk County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to ASAP for central Boston: home care, caregiver solutions, supportive housing, options counseling, Senior Care Options / One Care, community transition liaison, nutrition referrals. Information and referral via Boston ElderINFO: 617-292-6211. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-617-451-6400 to get started.

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

Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Suffolk County pay home heating bills from November 1 through April 30, with extra protection against winter shut-offs. The Commonwealth funds the program, and Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD) - Fuel Assistance takes applications for this county. Homeowners and renters can qualify, including renters whose heat is included in rent. Call 1-617-357-6012 to apply.

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

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Suffolk County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Massachusetts General Hospital for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. Mass General Brigham financial assistance offers 70-100% low-income discounts on emergency/medically necessary care when household income is below 301% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, plus help enrolling in MassHealth, Health Connector, and the statewide Health Safety Net (free/reduced-cost care for eligible low-income patients at all Massachusetts acute-care hospitals and community health centers; see https://www.mass.gov/info-details/health-safety-net-for-patients). Boston Medical Center (bmc.org) is the city's principal safety-net hospital alternative.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

MBTA serves Suffolk County with Senior CharlieCard gives roughly half-price one-way subway and bus fares plus discounted passes. The RIDE ADA paratransit (https://www.mbta.com/accessibility/the-ride) provides door-to-door service across the MBTA district for people whose disability prevents use of fixed-route transit; trip booking (TRAC) 844-427-7433. 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