Senior benefits in Dare County, North Carolina

The Albemarle Commission Area Agency on Aging serves older adults age 60 and older and their caregivers in Dare County. Services include congregate and home-delivered meals, family caregiver support and respite, the Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) for Medicare counseling, options counseling for long-term care, the long-term care ombudsman, and links to in-home aide and adult protective services. Call the Area Agency on Aging to learn what is available locally.

Estimated service value: $1,000–$6,000 a year

North Carolina's Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) gives a one-time payment toward heating costs, and the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) helps when a household faces a heating or cooling emergency. Both are run by the Dare County Department of Social Services. Households with an older adult (60+) or a person with a disability can apply starting December 1; other eligible households apply starting in January, until funds run out. Apply online through ePASS at epass.nc.gov, by phone, or at the county DSS office.

Estimated bill savings: $300–$1,500 a year

The Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head is the hospital serving Dare County. Outer Banks Health offers charity care to patients who cannot afford to pay because of financial hardship, and helps patients apply for Medicaid and other programs. Financial counselors are available on request. Ask for a financial assistance application or call the billing office.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

In this county: Dare: Outer Banks Health's published policy gives 100% charity care to patients with income below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines and limited assets; the award depends on household income and the hospital's policy.

Dare County Transportation runs curb-to-curb, ride-by-appointment service for all Dare County residents. The Elderly and Disabled Transportation Assistance Program (EDTAP) helps riders who are age 60 or older, or who have a disability, get to medical appointments and other daily-living destinations. Fare ticket books can be bought in advance, with a discount, at the transportation office. Call to sign up and schedule rides.

Estimated service value: $200–$2,000 a year

In this county: Dare: EDTAP serves riders 60+ or with a disability; fares depend on the trip, and discounted fare ticket books are available. Trips are by appointment.