Senior benefits in Pickens County, Alabama

The West Alabama Regional Commission runs the Area Agency on Aging for Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Pickens and Tuscaloosa counties, including Pickens 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 Pickens County, LIHEAP applications are taken by Pickens County Community Action Committee, the Community Action Agency the state lists for the county. The state agency, ADECA, does not take applications. Call the agency's main office in Carrollton at 205-367-8166 to ask how to apply. Older adults and people with disabilities are among the priority groups. Help depends on available funds.

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

Pickens County has had no hospital since Pickens County Medical Center in Carrollton closed in 2020. DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa serves residents of Tuscaloosa and West Alabama. Under DCH Health System's policy, patients with income below 250% of the federal poverty level can get a charity discount of 100% of the amount owed. Uninsured patients can get a 50% reduction of gross charges for emergency and medically necessary care. Call the hospital financial assistance representative at 205-750-5004.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

H.E.L.P. Inc. in Carrollton is the transportation provider the Area Agency on Aging of West Alabama lists for Pickens County. Call 205-367-2200 to ask about rides, fares, and how to schedule.

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