Senior benefits in Bates County, Missouri

Care Connection for Aging Services is the Area Agency on Aging for Bates County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Region 3 Area Agency on Aging in Warrensburg. Services listed: nutrition, care management, family caregiver support, in-home services, health education, fitness and recreation, disease management, falls prevention, long-term care ombudsman program, benefits counseling, Medicare information and counseling, Health Insurance Marketplace enrollment assistance, senior transportation. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-660-747-3107 to get started.

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

Missouri's Energy Assistance and Energy Crisis Intervention programs (LIHEAP) help income-eligible households in Bates County pay heating and cooling bills and resolve utility emergencies. The DSS Family Support Division funds the program, and West Central Missouri Community Action Agency (WCMCAA) takes applications for this county. Winter and summer components run on their own seasons while funds last. Call 1-660-476-2185 to apply.

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

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Bates County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Bates County Memorial Hospital for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. 615 West Nursery Street, Butler, MO 64730. Financial assistance for emergency and medically necessary care; the page states "If your gross income is less than or equal to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, you will receive a 100% financial assistance write-off". Small copays apply ($20 clinics/surgery, $50 emergency). Available to Bates County residents.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

OATS Transit serves Bates County with Rural demand-response plus scheduled routes: Kansas City area (1st and 4th Wednesday), Nevada (2nd Wednesday), Clinton (3rd Wednesday). City of Butler service to approved hospitals and clinics in Butler, Rich Hill and Adrian Monday-Friday; in-town Butler service Monday-Friday $2.50 each way. Trips must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. Toll-free 800-276-6287. OATS Transit is open to riders of any age — the page for this county states it is 'available to anyone regardless of age, income, disability, race, gender, religion, or national origin'. Fares are listed above, but riders age 60 and older — and riders with disabilities — who travel under the Area Agency on Aging contract do not pay a set fare. They are asked to contribute what they can instead. Ask about the AAA contract when you book. Call ahead, as rides are scheduled in advance. Call 1-660-827-2611 for schedules, fares, or to book a ride.

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