Senior benefits in Macon County, Tennessee

Support for grandparents and other relatives who are raising a relative's child because the parents no longer can. The Relative Caregiver Program offers monthly support groups (day and evening) in every Upper Cumberland county, groups and enrichment activities for the children and teens, educational workshops such as CPR classes and summer camps, short-term case management for the whole family, a resource manual of local help, and emergency material and financial assistance for unmet needs when program funds are available. Contact Melissa Allison at 931-476-4127 or mallison@ucdd.org.

The Upper Cumberland Area Agency on Aging & Disability, part of the Upper Cumberland Development District, is the one-call entry point for older adults, caregivers, and adults with disabilities in Macon County. It connects residents to in-home and personal care, home-delivered and congregate meals, transportation, caregiver support, options counseling, State Health Insurance Assistance (SHIP) Medicare counseling, and long-term-care help. Services are for adults 60 and older, with priority for those in greatest need, and for adults with disabilities. Reach the Information and Assistance line at 1-866-836-6678.

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

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible households in Macon County pay heating and cooling bills. Tennessee's LIHEAP is funded through the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) and delivered locally by the Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA). Qualifying households in the Upper Cumberland region receive a one-time utility payment (about $174 to $750), with priority for older adults, people with disabilities, and households in a heating or cooling crisis. Apply through the UCHRA Community Services office or call 2-1-1 for a referral.

Estimated bill savings: $174–$750 a year

Macon Community Hospital in Lafayette serves Macon County. Uninsured and underinsured patients with household income below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level can qualify for the hospital's charity care program for emergency and medically necessary treatment, and will not be charged more than the amount generally billed to insured patients. The hospital also offers a 40% self-pay discount for patients without insurance. Financial counselors are available on weekdays to help with the application.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

In this county: Charity care is income-based (the hospital lists free care below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, plus a 40% self-pay discount); the hospital makes the final award decision, so this shows as a may-qualify result.

The Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency runs demand-response public transit that serves Macon County. Older adults and people with disabilities can schedule curb-to-curb rides for medical appointments, errands, and other essential trips. There are no fixed routes; trips are reserved in advance through the regional call center. Reduced fares are available for seniors and riders with disabilities. Call 1-833-828-7477 to set up a ride.

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