Senior benefits in Osage County, Missouri

Aging Best (Region 6 Area Agency on Aging) is the Area Agency on Aging for Osage County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Congregate meals at nutrition activity centers and home-delivered meals; in-home support (homemaker, minor home repair and modification, pet care); long-term care ombudsman; benefits counseling (Medicare/Medicaid, marketplace navigation, help applying for financial assistance); transportation coordination to nutrition centers, classes, shopping and medical appointments. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-800-369-5211 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 Osage County pay heating and cooling bills and resolve utility emergencies. The DSS Family Support Division funds the program, and Central Missouri Community Action (CMCA) takes applications for this county. Winter and summer components run on their own seasons while funds last. Call 1-573-200-6655 to apply.

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

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Osage County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Capital Region Medical Center (MU Health Care) for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. Nearest hospital; Osage County (county seat Linn) has no hospital and Jefferson City is roughly 25 miles west. Capital Region Medical Center is listed as an MU Health Care financial-counseling location; toll-free 1-866-608-8025. No FPL threshold is published on the page. SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital - Jefferson City is a comparable alternative (https://www.ssmhealth.com/resources/pay-my-bill/Financial-Assistance, 888-918-3512). Osage County is also inside Phelps Health's stated primary service area.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

OATS Transit serves Osage County with Demand-response only. County page: 'General Public service is available on demand and is subject to driver and vehicle availability at the time of your request. Please call us to check on availability.' Office hours Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. No fixed schedule or fare is published on the Osage County page. 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; call ahead to book, as rides are scheduled in advance. Call 573-449-3789 or 800-269-6287 for schedules, fares, or to book a ride.

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