Senior benefits in Macon County, Alabama

The South Central Alabama Development Commission (SCADC) is the Area Agency on Aging for Macon County. Its Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) screens people for public and community benefits and helps with applications. SCADC also offers senior center meals and home delivered meals for homebound people 60 and older, SenioRx help with medicine costs, Medicare counseling (SHIP), free legal help for people 60 and older, and the long-term care ombudsman. Call 334-244-6903 or 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 Macon County, LIHEAP is handled by the Macon Russell Community Action Agency, 501 South School Street in Tuskegee. Household income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. Call the Macon County call center at 334-439-4009 (main office 334-727-6100) to apply or check on an application. ADECA does not take applications.

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

Macon County has no hospital; East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika is a nearby option. Its financial assistance program helps patients who have no insurance or cannot pay in full, once other payment options are used. Help can range from charity care to a payment plan, and uninsured patients can also apply for an uninsured discount. Call 334-528-1275 for an application, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

The Macon County Public Transportation System gives rides to Macon County citizens, with wheelchair-lift buses. It goes to Tuskegee, Tallassee, Union Springs, Montgomery, Auburn and Opelika. The round-trip fare is $10 inside Macon County and $20 outside the county. If you need a lift, call 24 hours ahead. An assistant can ride at no charge. Call the coordinator at 334-724-2556.

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