Senior benefits in Autauga County, Alabama

The Central Alabama Aging Consortium (CAAC) is the Area Agency on Aging for Autauga, Elmore, and Montgomery counties, including Autauga County. Its Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) screens callers for public and community benefits and helps with applications. CAAC also offers senior centers with lunch, home-delivered lunches for homebound people 60 and older, Alabama Cares caregiver support, legal help for people 60 and older, SenioRx prescription help, SHIP Medicare counseling, the long-term care ombudsman, Elderly and Disabled Waiver in-home care, and a home modification program (grab bars, shower and toilet chairs, wheelchair ramps, door widening and other safety items; call 334-240-4680). Call the ADRC at 334-240-4670.

Estimated service value: $200–$2,000 a year

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay home heating and cooling bills. In Autauga County, LIHEAP applications are taken by the Community Action Partnership of Middle Alabama. Household income must not be more than 150% of the federal poverty level, and the program targets older adults, people with disabilities, and young children. Call 205-287-0139 to ask how to apply or to check on an application. ADECA, the state office, does not take applications. Help depends on available funds.

Estimated bill savings: $280–$1,100 a year

Baptist Health's Hospital Charity/Financial Assistance Program covers uninsured patients at its South, East, and Prattville hospitals. Alabama residents with family income at or below 400% of the federal poverty guidelines may qualify, based on a sliding scale. All self-pay, uninsured patients get discounts and can use interest-free payment plans of up to two years. Call Customer Service at 334-747-4570, or the Medicaid Financial Counselors at 334-747-2926 for help applying for Medicaid or Marketplace coverage.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Autauga County Rural Transportation gives rides to Autauga County residents, including the City of Prattville, to medical offices, pharmacies, senior centers, grocery stores, and jobs. Elderly riders and people with disabilities pay $2.00 each way inside the county and $4.00 each way to Montgomery and Elmore County. Personal care attendants ride free. Rides run Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 334-358-6730 at least 24 hours ahead to schedule.

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