Resources
General Information
Housing
Information and Referral
A network of Area Agencies on Aging determine funding priorities for each area’s seniors, provide referral and other services and most also print a resource guide. You can also find local supportive aging resources at https://eldercare.acl.gov
Benefits Checkup
Take an anonymous survey to see if you qualify for federal, state or local benefits including help with housing, food, and medical expenses. www.benefitscheckup.org
The range of options includes independent living, assisted living, board-and-care, and skilled nursing. Some Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF’s) take Medicaid.
Low-income independent living housing can be below-market-rate rent or subsidized rent. Waiting lists for low income housing are usually long so applying early is recommended. For more information on senior housing options: https://www.hud.gov/topics/information_for_senior_citizens
Utilities
Food / Meals
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
For assistance with utility bills. https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/programs/liheap
Alternative Rates
Many phone and utility providers offer reduced rates for low-income customers and for those who rely on home medical equipment. To determine if your provider is one: https://www.cga.ct.gov/2018/rpt/pdf/2018-R-0051.pdf
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly Food Stamp Program)
An Electronic Benefit Transfer card is issued that can be used at grocery outlets. Monthly amount depends on income. https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program
Home-Delivered Meals (“Meals on Wheels”)
Often offered by your local Council on Aging, senior center, or non-profit. To locate your local resource: https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/
Health Insurance / Health Care
Legal Assistance
State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP)
To find local program for assistance with choosing from vast array of Medicare health insurance options: https://www.shiptacenter.org/
Medicare
To compare plans for hospitalization, out-patient, prescription drug and comprehensive insurance options: www.Medicare.gov
Medicaid
For information on qualifying for low-income health insurance: www.Medicaid.gov/
Community Health Clinics
Offer medical, dental, mental health and other services. To locate closest clinic: https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/
Council on Aging
A national network of Councils on Aging exists; some may offer reduced fees for end-of-life planning.. To find closest: https://www.ncoa.org/ncoa-map/
Legal Aid Locate
Local resource for help with legal issues. https://www.lsc.gov/
Home Care / Case Management
Adult and Aging Services
Often a part of a county’s Department of Health and Human Services. Offers a variety of programs and services that can assist with maintaining independence.
Adult Protective Services (APS)
To report concerns about seniors who may need help with self-care or protection from physical, emotional or financial abuse. For more info and local contact: https://elder.findlaw.com/elder-abuse/adult-protective-services-what-you-need-to-know.html
GLBT NATIONAL HELP CENTER (www.glnh.org)
Free and confidential telephone and internet peer-counseling, information, and local resources for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning callers throughout the United States.
GAY AND LESBIAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (http://www.glma.org)
GLMA was founded in 1981 to ensure quality, non-judgmental healthcare and to end workplace discrimination for LGBT healthcare professionals. Search for LGBT-friendly health care providers in your area.
NAT’L CENTER FOR LESBIAN RIGHTS (NCLR) (www.nclrights.org)
Located in SF, NCLR is a national nonprofit law firm that protects the legal and human rights of lesbians, gay men and bisexual and transgender people across the United States through impact litigation, public policy advocacy, public
