Senior benefits in Clay County, North Carolina

Older adults age 60 and over in Clay County, and adults with disabilities, can get help through the Southwestern Commission Area Agency on Aging (Region A). Services include caregiver support, free Medicare counseling (SHIIP), home-delivered and congregate meals, in-home aide help, and guidance on long-term care choices. Call 828-586-1962 to ask which services are open and how to start.

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

Clay County Department of Social Services runs the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP), a one-time yearly payment toward heating bills, and the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) for households facing a heating or cooling emergency. Households with someone age 60 or over, or a person with a disability who gets services through the Division of Aging, can apply starting December 1; all other households can apply January 1 through March 31 or until funds run out. Apply online through ePASS (https://epass.nc.gov) or contact the county DSS at 1-828-389-6301.

Estimated bill savings: $300–$900 a year

Clay County has no hospital of its own; residents are mainly served by Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital in nearby Murphy. That hospital offers financial assistance (charity care) covering free or discounted hospital care for patients who qualify by income. Insured and uninsured patients may apply. Call the Financial Counseling Department at 828-835-3662.

Estimated bill savings: $500–$20,000 a year

In this county: Clay County has no in-county hospital; this is the nearest serving hospital (Murphy). Erlanger's policy generally provides free or discounted care at or below 300% of the federal poverty guidelines; the hospital makes the final decision.

Home Care Independence lets Clay County residents age 60 and older hire a family member, friend or other person of their choice as a paid personal assistant. The assistant helps with personal care such as bathing and dressing, and with home tasks such as cooking, cleaning, laundry and shopping. A care advisor helps you plan and direct your own care, and a payroll service pays the assistant. Call Clay County Department of Social Services at 828-839-6301 ext. 118 to ask about openings.

Clay County Transportation gives rides to any Clay County resident, with priority help for older adults and people with disabilities getting to medical appointments, the senior center, shopping, and errands. Vans with wheelchair lifts are available. Trips are booked ahead — give 2 to 3 business days' notice. Call 828-389-0644 for routes and fares.

Estimated service value: $200–$1,500 a year