Senior benefits in Nelson County, Virginia

Jefferson Area Board for Aging (JABA) is the Area Agency on Aging for Nelson County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to AAA for Charlottesville City and Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson counties (PSA 10). Services for adults 60+: home-delivered meals, community senior centers, Medicare/insurance counseling, nutrition assistance, respite and caregiver support, health education, advocacy. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-434-817-5222 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Nelson County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Nelson County 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 Nelson County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at UVA Medical Center (Charlottesville) for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. No in-county hospital; nearest full-service hospital is UVA Medical Center in Charlottesville (~30 miles from Lovingston). Blue Ridge Medical Center in Arrington is a community health center, not a hospital.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Nelson County offers real estate tax relief for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently and totally disabled. The income and net-worth limits are set by local ordinance and are not published online — call the Commissioner of the Revenue at 434-263-7070 for the current figures and an application. Applications go to the Commissioner of the Revenue early in the year; call for the current window.

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

JAUNT serves Nelson County with Curb-to-curb demand-response public transportation in Nelson County, plus CONNECT commuter route from Lovingston to Charlottesville; book 1-7 days in advance at (434) 296-3184 option 1. JAUNT does not publish a fare table on its site. 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 1-434-296-3184 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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