Senior benefits in Greene County, Alabama

The West Alabama Regional Commission runs the Area Agency on Aging for Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Pickens and Tuscaloosa counties, including Greene County. Help starts with its Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). Depending on need, older adults can get advice on health insurance, legal counseling, home-delivered meals, help with household chores, discounted prescription medicines, and other services. Other programs include caregiver assistance, Medicare counseling, senior activity centers, and the long-term care ombudsman. Call 205-333-2990 or 1-800-AGELINE.

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

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay home heating and cooling bills. In Greene County, LIHEAP applications are taken by Community Service Programs of West Alabama, the Community Action Agency the state lists for the county. The state agency, ADECA, does not take applications. Applicants 60 and older can call the agency's senior line at 205-469-0386; others can use the call center at 833-836-7817. Older adults and people with disabilities are among the priority groups. Help depends on available funds.

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

Greene County Hospital in Eutaw, part of Greene County Health System, serves Greene and nearby counties. If you do not have health coverage, call 205-372-3388 and ask to speak with the hospital patient account representative. This person can give an estimate of your bill and work with you on a payment plan if needed.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

West Alabama Public Transportation, based in Demopolis, is the public transportation provider the Area Agency on Aging of West Alabama lists for Bibb, Greene and Hale counties. It gives rides for medical visits, work, shopping and other trips, and accepts Alabama Medicaid travel vouchers. Call 334-289-5789 to ask about service in Greene County, fares, and how to schedule.

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