Senior benefits in Dickinson County, Michigan

Family Ties is an adult day center run by the Dickinson-Iron Community Services Agency (DICSA) in Iron Mountain. It is open to people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or other debilitating diseases. During the day, members join structured activities, exercise, and a hot noon meal, and get help with personal care. Rides come from the DICSA transportation program. The center gives family caregivers a break (respite) and helps the person keep living at home. A monthly caregiver support group also meets at DICSA. The center is open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 906-774-8032 to ask about enrolling.

In this county: The page does not list fees or income rules; ask DICSA about cost and any payment help when calling. The center decides enrollment.

UPCAP, the Area Agency on Aging for all 15 Upper Peninsula counties, serves older adults in Dickinson County. Services include home-delivered and congregate meals, in-home and personal care, caregiver support, Medicare/Medicaid counseling (MMAP), long-term care options counseling, and help applying for the MI Choice waiver. Adults age 60 and over, and adults with disabilities, can call 1-800-338-7227 to ask what help is available.

Estimated service value: $1,500–$6,000 a year

Dickinson-Iron Community Services Agency (DICSA) delivers low-income energy assistance for Dickinson County, including utility and water bill help, shutoff protection, and home weatherization. Apply for state energy help through MI Bridges, dial 211 for local referrals, or call DICSA at 906-774-2256.

Estimated bill savings: $200–$1,500 a year

Marshfield Medical Center-Dickinson in Iron Mountain (formerly Dickinson County Healthcare System) offers financial assistance for emergency and medically necessary care. A sliding fee scale is available based on family size and income, and no one is denied needed care for inability to pay. Charity (free) care generally requires household income under 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Call a Patient Assistance Counselor at 1-800-997-7359 to apply.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

In this county: Charity (free) care generally requires household income under 200% of the Federal Poverty Level and limited assets; a sliding-fee discount applies above that. Qualifying patients are charged no more than amounts generally billed. The hospital makes the final determination. Not legal or financial advice.

U.P. Food as Medicine gives Dickinson County adults who are at risk for or living with a chronic health condition vouchers to buy fresh fruits and vegetables at participating Upper Peninsula farm markets. Each voucher is worth $5, and participants get $15 a week during the 20-week market season — about $300 a season, mailed monthly. A doctor or clinic in the program's partner network sends the referral; a call specialist then completes enrollment. Ask your health-care provider for a referral, or dial 2-1-1.

Estimated service value: about $300 a year

The Dickinson-Iron Community Services Agency (DICSA) sends free adult diapers to people 18 and older in Dickinson County who need them. Apply online each month, and the diapers are shipped to your home through Amazon, usually about 2 weeks later. Adults can order once per month, with no limit on the number of months. For help with the application, call 906-774-2256, ext. 299.

Dickinson-Iron Community Services Agency (DICSA) operates a dial-a-ride, curb-to-curb service in Dickinson County (Iron Mountain, Kingsford, Norway and surrounding areas). Riders age 60 and over pay a reduced fare. Book a ride at least 24 hours ahead by calling 906-282-0492.

Estimated service value: $200–$1,200 a year

In this county: Reduced fares apply to seniors 60+; fares vary by community (Iron Mountain/Kingsford/Iron River vs. Norway). At least 24 hours' notice is preferred. Fares and rules are set by DICSA and can change. Not legal or financial advice.