Senior benefits in Patrick County, Virginia

Southern Area Agency on Aging is the Area Agency on Aging for Patrick County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Area Agency on Aging (PSA 12). Home-delivered meals and senior cafes, in-home personal care, transportation, respite/caregiver support, insurance counseling, ombudsman. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-276-632-6442 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Patrick County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Patrick 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 Patrick County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Sovah Health - Martinsville for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. No hospital in Patrick County (Pioneer Community Hospital of Patrick County in Stuart closed in 2017); nearest is Sovah Health - Martinsville, ~28 miles from Stuart.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Patrick County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $32,000 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $100,000 or less. Up to $500 in real estate tax exemption for owners age 65+ or 100% disabled meeting the income and net-worth criteria. Applications due March 1 annually to the Commissioner of Revenue, 106 Rucker Street, Room 220, Stuart. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

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

STEP, Inc. (Solutions That Empower People) — Senior Transportation serves Patrick County with Demand-response rides for Patrick County seniors to congregate meals, medical appointments, and grocery shopping; Monday-Friday 8:30am-2:30pm; call the Patrick County office (4559 Wayside Road, Stuart) to apply. No fixed-route public transit in the county. 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 1-276-694-2239 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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