INDUSTRY INSIGHT
SENIORS
SPONSORED CONTENT
Free and
Discounted
Services
for Seniors
and Their
Caregivers
M
ost seniors these days are living on limited incomes. So, finding
affordable products and services is crucial. While numerous resources
exist, finding them can be difficult. Below is a list of free services that
may be of assistance to you and your loved ones.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Benefits Counseling
Free counseling is available through your local Area Agency on Aging
(AAA). You can get answers regarding health insurance coverage, food
stamps, income assistance and other benefits through these counselors.
Free Dentures
It is possible for low-income seniors to receive free dentures. In addition
to calling your AAA, contact your state dental association and any nearby
dental colleges for information on free or low-cost dental programs.
State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs)
State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs) offer drug assistance
programs to seniors and individuals with chronic illnesses. Contact the
state department of health and/or human services agency for details.
Low-Cost Prescription Drugs
Despite the advent of Medicare Part D and state-run assistance
programs, many seniors still cannot afford medications. Visit the
Partnership for Prescription Assistance website for a list of
pharmaceutical companies that can provide assistance. Another strategy
is to switch to generic drugs. Generic drugs cost 80 to 85 percent less.
Discounted Phone or Internet Services
LifeLine is a federal government program that provides discounted
landline or wire phone service for seniors. (However, seniors must have
an income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines to
qualify.) Visit LifelineSupport.org for more information.
Free Phone for Hearing-Impaired Individuals
CaptionCall is a service funded by the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) that provides free captioned telephones to those with
medically recognized hearing loss. For more information visit
Captel.com.
Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP)
This program used to be called “Food Stamps” and provides monetary
assistance to low-income families so that they can afford nutritious food.
You can apply through your AAA or local SNAP office. Visit the USDA
SNAP website for a list of office locations. Local food banks are
another source of assistance for low-income seniors. Locate soup
kitchens, food pantries and other resources at Feedingamerica.org.
Free Hearing Aids
Try your local Lions Club. Most chapters either operate or know of a
hearing aid bank that can match needy seniors with recycled hearing aids.
9.
Free Walkers or Rollators
Discounted or free mobility aids can be found at thrift stores and local
non-profit organizations. Hospitals and nursing homes also periodically
dispose of reliable, used equipment.
10. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
You can apply for assistance to efficiently heat and cool your home
through your local AAA. The Low Income Weatherization Assistance
Program (LIWAP) helps families install insulation and repair or replace
HVAC systems. LIHEAP is available to both homeowners and renters .
Woodland Hills | Winter 2017 | icmags.com 7