Senior benefits in Montgomery County, Alabama

The Central Alabama Aging Consortium (CAAC) is the Area Agency on Aging for Autauga, Elmore, and Montgomery counties, including Montgomery 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 Montgomery County, LIHEAP applications are taken by the Montgomery Community Action Committee. 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 334-230-5259 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

Montgomery Transit (The M) runs city buses, and all buses have lifts. Montgomery Area Paratransit (MAP) serves people age 6 and older who cannot ride the city bus because of a physical or cognitive disability. MAP runs the same hours as the buses, within 3/4 mile of bus routes. To qualify, mail a Registration Form and a Medical Information Form signed by a doctor or social worker; approval takes up to 21 days. Call 334-625-4691 for more information. Riders 65 and older can get reduced bus fares with a free photo ID.

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