Senior benefits in Iredell County, North Carolina

The Centralina Area Agency on Aging serves adults age 60 and older and their caregivers in Iredell 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 and adult day services. Call the Area Agency on Aging to find out 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 Iredell 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

Iredell Health System (Iredell Memorial Hospital in Statesville) is the main hospital serving Iredell County, and is the only nonprofit in the county that provides charity care. Its Financial Assistance Program covers medically necessary hospital services for patients who qualify based on income. Novant Health, which operates in Mooresville and Huntersville, has its own assistance policy. Call the business office to apply.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

In this county: Iredell: Iredell Health System financial assistance covers medically necessary care and is income-based; it does not cover copayments for insured patients or non-medically-necessary care. The hospital makes the final decision.

Helps veterans of any age stay safely at home instead of in a long-term care facility. The veteran gets a monthly budget for long-term services and supports and can hire, schedule and supervise their own caregivers — family members, friends, or professional caregivers. Available to veterans enrolled in VA health care who meet the clinical criteria for long-term services and supports. To get started, talk to your social worker or primary care provider at your VA Medical Center; they confirm eligibility and start enrollment. Centralina Aging: 704-372-2416 or 1-800-508-5777.

The Iredell County Area Transportation System (ICATS) is the county's community transportation system, providing scheduled curb-to-curb, shared rides; older adults, people with disabilities, and lower-income riders are priority groups. The Iredell Council on Aging arranges free rides for residents age 60 and older to medical appointments, the senior center, grocery stores, and other essential trips. Book trips at least two business days ahead.

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

In this county: Iredell: ICATS provides shared community transportation; Council on Aging rides for residents 60+ are free with optional donations.