Senior benefits in Rockbridge County, Virginia

Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS) is the Area Agency on Aging for Rockbridge County. It is the local starting point that connects older adults and caregivers to Meals on Wheels and VPAS Cafes, senior transportation (60+), caregiver support, Medicare consultation (VICAP), information and assistance, one-time emergency financial help, ombudsman, Senior Cool Care, and Farm Market Fresh vouchers. Most services are for adults 60 and older; adults with disabilities may also qualify for some services. Call 1-540-949-7141 to get started.

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

The Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps income-eligible households in Rockbridge County pay heating and cooling bills, with crisis help for shut-offs and broken equipment. Apply during the program windows through the Rockbridge-Buena Vista-Lexington Area 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 Rockbridge County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Carilion Rockbridge Community Hospital for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. In-county hospital in Lexington (the county seat area). Carilion's system-wide financial assistance policy applies to all its hospital facilities: free care up to 300% FPL with under $25,000 in available assets; discounts for 301%-500% FPL with under $100,000 in assets. FAP page content is client-rendered but the text is embedded in the page source.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Rockbridge County offers real estate tax relief (exemption) for homeowners who are 65 or older or permanently disabled. Total household income must be $50,000 or less, and net worth (not counting the home) must be $200,000 or less. Must be at least 65 or permanently and totally disabled prior to January 1 of the tax year. The first $10,000 of income of each relative other than a spouse or owner is excluded. Net worth excludes the dwelling and up to two acres. Apply with the Commissioner of the Revenue between January 1 and April 1 each year. Apply through the local commissioner of the revenue or assessment office.

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

Maury Express (operated by RADAR Transit) and Rockbridge Area Transportation System (RATS) serves Rockbridge County with Maury Express is a deviated fixed route serving Lexington, Buena Vista, and Rockbridge County, Mon-Fri 8am-6pm and Sat 10am-4pm; no senior-specific fare published. RATS (rockbridgetransportation.org, 540-463-3346) provides door-to-door demand-response for Rockbridge County and both cities, accepts Medicaid and private pay, and has a fund for free/reduced-fare medical rides. 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 1-540-463-3346 for schedules, eligibility, or to book a ride.

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