Senior benefits in Chowan County, North Carolina

The Albemarle Commission Area Agency on Aging serves older adults age 60 and older and their caregivers in Chowan County. Services include congregate and home-delivered meals, family caregiver support and respite, the Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) for Medicare counseling, options counseling for long-term care, the long-term care ombudsman, and links to in-home aide and adult protective services. Call the Area Agency on Aging to learn what is available locally.

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

North Carolina's Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) gives a one-time payment toward heating costs, and the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) helps when a household faces a heating or cooling emergency. Both are run by the Chowan County Department of Social Services. Households with an older adult (60+) or a person with a disability can apply starting December 1; other eligible households apply starting in January, until funds run out. Apply online through ePASS at epass.nc.gov, by phone, or at the county DSS office.

Estimated bill savings: $300–$1,100 a year

ECU Health Chowan Hospital in Edenton is the hospital serving Chowan County. ECU Health offers charity care for patients who cannot afford to pay because of financial hardship, plus payment plans and Medicaid screening. An application can be requested by phone, by mail, or through MyChart. Ask for a financial assistance application or call the financial counselor call center.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

In this county: Chowan: ECU Health's published policy writes off balances for patients with income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level (charity care) and offers a payment plan for income between 200% and 300% FPL; the award depends on household income and the policy.

The Inter-County Public Transportation Authority (ICPTA) runs demand-response, ride-by-appointment public transit in Chowan County. Rides connect residents to medical appointments, nutrition sites, shopping, and other daily-living needs. ICPTA is the main public transportation option for seniors and people with disabilities in this rural region; rides within the service area are offered at no fare. Call to set up service and confirm current fares and schedules.

Estimated service value: $200–$2,000 a year