Senior benefits in Wise County, Texas

Gives unpaid family caregivers a break. The North Central Texas Area Agency on Aging gives respite vouchers that pay a provider you choose for care at home or in a facility. The standard one-time benefit is $800, used all at once or over three months (the respite page says vouchers of up to $1,000). Case managers can also arrange help like grab bars, ramps, emergency response devices and health supplies. You may qualify if you care for someone 60 or older, or someone of any age with Alzheimer's or a related dementia. Grandparents 55 or older raising a grandchild 18 or younger can also get respite vouchers and support. The caregiver or the person cared for must live in Wise County or another county the agency serves. Funding is limited. Call 800-272-3921 to ask for an application packet.

Estimated service value: $800–$1,000 a year

Wise County's energy bill help (CEAP) is run by Texas Neighborhood Services (TNS) in Weatherford. It helps pay electric, natural gas and propane bills and teaches ways to keep energy costs down. Household income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines. Apply through the TNS online Utility Assistance Portal, or send the paper application by email (application@txns.org), by mail, or drop it in the lock box at 522 Palo Pinto Street, Weatherford. Call 817-598-5700 or the TDHCA CEAP line at 800-525-0657.

Estimated bill savings: $200–$1,600 a year

Wise County operates a referral-and-coordination emergency aid framework. Emergency needs are addressed through: (1) CEAP subrecipient for utility assistance; (2) NCTCOG AAA for senior services (800-272-3921); (3) Wise County CIHCP for healthcare (940-627-2890); (4) United Way of Metropolitan Dallas / 211 for general referrals; (5) faith-based partners (Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, local churches).

Estimated bill savings: $200–$2,500 a year

The Wise County Indigent Health Care Program (CIHCP) is required by Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 61 for low-income residents who don't qualify for other state or federal healthcare programs. Eligibility: Wise County resident age 18+; household income less than 21% of the Federal Poverty Level (the Texas statutory minimum); not Medicaid-eligible. CIHCP covers physician services, lab/x-ray, three prescriptions per month, and inpatient/outpatient hospital services through participating providers. PRIMARY HOSPITALS: Wise Health System (Decatur). Apply by calling Wise County at 940-627-2890.

Estimated bill savings: $1,200–$22,000 a year

In this county: Wise CIHCP. Wise Health System (Decatur).

NCTCOG serves Wise County seniors age 60+ and their family caregivers. NCTCOG AAA delivers Direct Services (Benefits Counseling, Care Coordination, Long-term Care Ombudsman, Nursing Home Relocation) plus Contract Services (Home-Delivered Meals, Congregate Meals, Transportation, Healthy Living Workshops). The agency does not charge for its services but encourages voluntary contributions. Apply by calling NCTCOG AAA at 800-272-3921. Office: 616 Six Flags Drive (Centerpoint Two), Arlington TX 76011.

Estimated service value: $1,500–$5,000 a year

TAPS Get-a-Ride gives shared, curb-to-curb rides to the general public in Wise County and the rest of the 6-county TAPS area. Seniors 60+ and riders with disabilities pay a reduced one-way fare of $1 in town, $1.50 out of town and $2 out of county (general public pays $2, $3 and $4). Book at least 48 business hours ahead, Monday–Friday 7am–3pm, at 844-603-6048.

Estimated service value: $300–$2,400 a year