Senior benefits in Oceana County, Michigan

Senior Resources of West Michigan is the Area Agency on Aging for Oceana 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. Older adults age 60 and over, and adults with disabilities, can call 1-800-442-0054 to ask what help is available.

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

emPower, run by TrueNorth, is a Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) grantee serving Oceana County. It helps low-income households with heating and electric bills, deliverable fuels, shutoff protection, and self-sufficiency planning. Apply for state energy help through MI Bridges, dial 211 for local referrals, or call emPower at 231-355-5880.

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

Trinity Health Shelby is the critical access hospital serving Oceana County. It offers financial assistance for emergency and medically necessary care. Uninsured patients with household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level may receive free care, and those between 200% and 400% may receive a discount. Ask a financial counselor or call 231-672-4357 to apply, ideally within 240 days of the first bill.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Veteran Directed Care lets eligible veterans direct their own long-term services and supports, with more flexibility, choice and control over their care. After the VA refers a veteran, Senior Resources' care managers work with the veteran and their caregivers to build an individualized care plan and coordinate the supports that keep the veteran independent at home. Start by asking your VA care team for a VDC referral; Senior Resources Options Counselors can explain the program at (231) 733-3585 or 1 (800) 442-0054.

In this county: Senior Resources provides the care management only after the VA refers the veteran into Veteran Directed Care — the VA decides eligibility. You must be enrolled in VA health care and live in Muskegon, Oceana or Ottawa County.

The Oceana County Council on Aging runs bus transportation across Oceana County, giving seniors and people with disabilities first priority for rides to medical appointments, errands, and community life. Volunteer drivers also take seniors age 60 and over to medical appointments. Senior fares are suggested donations; no senior is turned away for not donating. Call 231-873-4461 at least two business days ahead to book a ride.

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

In this county: Rides are open to all county residents, with seniors and people with disabilities given first priority. Senior fares are suggested donations. Reserve at least two business days ahead. Not legal or financial advice.