Senior benefits in Alleghany County, Virginia

Local Office on Aging, Inc. (LOA Area Agency on Aging) is the Area Agency on Aging for Alleghany County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Meals on Wheels and congregate nutrition, Farm Market Fresh produce, health and wellness programs, legal assistance, long-term-care ombudsman, dementia support, and caregiver respite for adults 60+ in the 5th Planning District (Alleghany, Botetourt, Craig, and Roanoke counties and the cities of Roanoke, Salem, and Covington). Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-540-345-0451 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Alleghany County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Alleghany-Covington Department of Social Services, online at CommonHelp, or by phone at 1-855-635-4370. Cooling Assistance requires a household member who is 60 or older, has a disability, or is a child under 6. Fuel Assistance applications are taken each fall and Cooling Assistance each summer, while funds last.

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

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Alleghany County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at LewisGale Hospital Alleghany for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. In-county hospital: LewisGale Hospital Alleghany, 1 ARH Ln, Low Moor, VA 24457. HCA charity policy: 100% discount at 0-200% FPL; expanded assistance 201-400% FPL for balances over $1,500.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Alleghany County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $40,000 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $100,000 or less. Exemption on the dwelling and up to one acre; net worth excludes the dwelling, that acre, and household furnishings. File between January 1 and July 1 with the Commissioner of the Revenue. Phone given is the county main line (540-863-6600, verified on the county site); a direct Commissioner of Revenue extension was not published on the cited page. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

Estimated bill savings: $200–$3,000 a year

The Mountain Express (operated by RADAR) serves Alleghany County with Deviated fixed-route van service for Alleghany County, Covington, Clifton Forge, and Iron Gate; Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; ADA-certified riders may request route deviations up to 3/4 mile. Older adults and people with disabilities can use reduced fares or demand-response rides for medical appointments, shopping, and other essential trips. Rides are free or low-cost depending on the service. Call 1-800-964-5707 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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