Senior benefits in Randolph County, Alabama

The East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission (EARPDC) runs the Area Agency on Aging for 10 counties in east Alabama, including Randolph County. Its Aging and Disability Resource Center helps adults 60 and older, people with disabilities, and family caregivers find services. Programs include senior centers and meals, Alabama Cares caregiver support, Medicaid Waiver in-home help, SHIP Medicare counseling, SenioRx prescription help, legal help for older adults, the long-term care ombudsman, and senior jobs. Call 256-237-6741 or 1-800-239-6741, 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 Randolph County, LIHEAP applications are taken by the Community Action Agency of Talladega, Clay, Randolph, Calhoun, and Cleburne Counties. 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 256-362-6611 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

Tanner Medical Center/East Alabama in Wedowee is part of Tanner Health, which has a Patient Financial Assistance Program for medically necessary care. Family income must be less than 200% of the federal poverty guidelines, and discounts use a sliding scale by family size and income. Patients with no insurance who are not on Medicare or Medicaid get a 60% discount on hospital bills, and payment plans are available on request. Call the Patient Financial Assistance team at 770-812-5795.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year