Senior benefits in Blount County, Tennessee

The East Tennessee Area Agency on Aging and Disability, run by the East Tennessee Human Resource Agency (ETHRA), serves older adults age 60 and older, adults with disabilities, and caregivers in Blount County. It plans and funds local aging services such as congregate and home-delivered meals, the SHIP/SMP Medicare counseling program, family caregiver support and respite, options counseling for long-term care and home- and community-based services, the long-term care ombudsman, and public guardianship. Call the toll-free Information and Assistance line to find out what is offered locally.

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

Tennessee's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay home heating and cooling bills. In Blount County it is delivered by the Blount County Community Action Agency (BCCAA). Eligibility uses a priority point system that favors households with elderly members, members with a disability, or children under six. Crisis help is available for households facing disconnection. Apply through the state THDA portal, at the BCCAA office in Maryville, or dial 2-1-1 for referral.

Estimated bill savings: $174–$750 a year

Blount Memorial Hospital in Maryville is the main hospital serving Blount County. It offers financial assistance (charity care) that can forgive or reduce bills for uninsured and underinsured patients who cannot afford to pay for needed care. Applications are reviewed for up to 240 days after the first bill. Ask the Business Office for a financial assistance application or call for help applying.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

In this county: Blount: Blount Memorial reviews charity care applications for up to 240 days after the first bill; the income basis is set in its published financial assistance policy and the hospital makes the final decision.

ETHRA Public Transit runs door-to-door, demand-response vans across Blount County and the wider East Tennessee region. The service meets Americans with Disabilities Act requirements and is open to the general public, with priority help for older adults and riders with a disability getting to medical visits, shopping, senior centers, and other trips. Rides are shared and must be booked ahead, so call at least three business days before the trip to reserve a seat.

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