Senior benefits in Colbert County, Alabama

The Northwest Alabama Council of Local Governments (NACOLG) is the Area Agency on Aging named by the Alabama Department of Senior Services for Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Marion and Winston counties, including Colbert County. It helps adults 60 and older, people with disabilities, and family caregivers find services. Its Aging and Disability Resource Center is a single place to start, even if you do not know which program you need. Services include senior centers, meals, Alabama Cares caregiver support, the long-term care ombudsman, senior jobs, SenioRx prescription help, SHIP Medicare counseling, and Medicaid Waiver in-home help. Call 256-389-0531 or the Alabama Ageline at 1-800-243-5463.

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

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay home heating and cooling bills. In Colbert County, LIHEAP applications are taken by the Community Action Agency of Northwest Alabama. Household income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, and older adults and households with children get priority. Call 256-764-5142 to make an appointment, or call the Colbert County office at 256-383-3832. Walk-in utility applications are not taken. Help depends on available funds.

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

Helen Keller Hospital in Sheffield, part of Huntsville Hospital Health System (HH Health), offers financial assistance to uninsured and underinsured patients for emergency and medically necessary hospital care. Under the system policy, patients with household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level can get this care free, and patients below 400% can get discounts. Eligibility is based on household income, assets, and the federal poverty guidelines. Assistance covers hospital charges only, not separate doctor bills. Call a financial counselor at 256-386-4002 for help applying.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

NACOLG Dial-a-Ride is shared public transportation open to anyone. It takes riders from their pickup place to their destination in ADA-accessible vehicles. In Colbert County it serves the area within 10 miles of Muscle Shoals, Sheffield and Tuscumbia. Rides in rural parts of the county may be offered at a variable rate when vehicles and drivers are available. Rides run 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Book up to two weeks ahead, and no later than 3:00 p.m. the business day before. One-way fares start at $3; pay the driver with exact change. A personal care attendant may ride free. Call 256-314-0047 or toll-free 833-314-0047.

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