Many programs are designed specifically for adults age 60 and older, yet a lot of eligible seniors never use them. Some people assume they will not qualify, others do not know where to start. This guide lists the main sources of help and the one phone number that connects you to most of them.
One call to start
The Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 (or eldercare.acl.gov) connects you to your local Area Agency on Aging, which is the hub for senior services in your community. You can also dial 211.
Area Agencies on Aging
Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) coordinate services for older adults and their caregivers. Depending on where you live, they can help arrange meals, transportation, in-home help, caregiver support, benefits screening and more. They are usually free to contact and a good first call when you do not know where to turn.
Food help for seniors
- Home-delivered and group meals. Programs such as Meals on Wheels and congregate meal sites offer nutritious meals, often at no set charge for people 60 and older, with voluntary contributions. Ask your Area Agency on Aging.
- SNAP. Many older adults qualify and are not enrolled. Some states have simpler rules or shorter applications for seniors. See our SNAP guide.
- Food pantries and senior food boxes. See how to find free food near you.
Health and prescription costs
- SHIP counseling. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program offers free, unbiased help with Medicare choices, billing and appeals. Find your local office at shiphelp.org.
- Medicare Savings Programs. State programs that can help pay Medicare premiums and sometimes other costs for people with limited income.
- Extra Help. A federal program that lowers Medicare prescription drug plan costs for eligible people.
- Medicaid. Can cover costs Medicare does not, including long-term care in some situations.
For more, see our guides to paying less for prescriptions and low-cost healthcare.
Housing and utilities
- Energy assistance. Many LIHEAP programs give priority to older adults. See how to get help paying utility bills.
- Weatherization. Free home upgrades that cut energy use for eligible households.
- Property tax relief. Many states and localities offer exemptions, freezes or credits for older homeowners. Contact your county assessor or tax office.
- Senior housing. HUD supports affordable apartments for older adults. See our affordable housing guide.
Transportation
Many transit systems offer reduced fares for people over a certain age, and local agencies, faith groups and volunteers often run ride programs to medical appointments and shopping. See our guide to transportation help.
Discounts and everyday savings
- Ask about senior discounts at pharmacies, restaurants, retailers, museums and movie theaters. They are often unadvertised.
- Check for discounted or free public services such as library cards, parks passes for seniors and reduced fares.
- Use a benefits screening tool such as the National Council on Aging’s BenefitsCheckUp, which asks a few questions and lists programs you may qualify for.
Protect yourself from scams
Older adults are frequent targets of fake government calls, “free” Medicare gifts and grant scams. Medicare and Social Security will not call you to demand payment, and no real program charges a fee to give you benefits. Read our guide to avoiding assistance scams.