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Frequently Asked Questions

Adult Protective Services

What is Adult Protective Services?

Adult Protective Services provides assistance to at-risk adults whose health and safety may be in danger due to abuse, neglect, self-neglect, or exploitation.

How do I report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an at-risk adult?

Reports of suspected mistreatment or self-neglect should be made to the County Department of Social (Human) Services in the county where the at-risk adult resides. When making a report, ask for "adult protection intake."

Financial Assistance & Employment

How do I apply for financial benefits from Colorado?

Colorado offers many financial benefits for low-income seniors and disabled adults. To apply for benefits, contact your County Department of Social (Human) Services.

I don't qualify for Social Security or my Social Security income is under $604. Is there any program that provides me additional income?

Colorado's Constitution guarantees an Old Age Pension to Colorado residents, age 60 and older, who meet eligibility requirements.

I have questions about Social Security programs. Where do I start?

Visit Social Security Online for a wealth of information about all Social Security programs.

How can I get help with my heating costs?

The Low-income Energy Assistance Program provides assistance for some heating costs for qualified low income households.

How can I get help with my telephone costs?

Persons who are currently receiving Old Age Pension (OAP), Aid to the Needy Disabled (AND), Aid to the Blind (AB), or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may qualify for a reduced rate on basic telephone service through the Telephone Assistance Program.

I'd like to get some additional job training so I can supplement my Social Security. Where can I go?

The AARP Senior Employment program offers job training and temporary job placement for low-income persons age 55 and older who wish to reenter the workforce. More information on Colorado's Senior Employment program can be found on the Senior Community Services Employment Program (SCSEP) website.

Healthcare & Insurance

What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

Medicaid provides health insurance for low income Coloradoans who meet state and federal eligibility requirements. Medicaid can assist families with children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities when eligibility requirements are met. Persons who are not United States citizens are not eligible for Medicaid except in a life threatening medical emergency. Other state medical programs may be available to those persons who do not meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.

Medicare provides health insurance to persons aged 65 and older, disabled workers, and certain people with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). To qualify for Medicare you must have paid into the Social Security system during your working years. Medicare requires participants to pay some insurance premiums. The Medicare program is made up of Part A, which covers inpatient hospitalization, some home health care visits, and limited post-hospital care, and Part B, which covers physician, outpatient, certain home health visits, and other medical services.

I have questions about Medicare. Where do I start?

Visit the official Medicare government website for a wealth of information about all Medicare programs.

How do I find the Medicare prescription drug plan that's right for me?

Benefits Check Up and the Social Security Administration each have an online survey that will assist you in determining the best card for you.

How do I apply for Medicaid?

Call your County Department of Social (Human) Services to schedule an appointment. The Department of Health Care Policy and Financing provides general information about Medicaid.

How do I find low cost medical clinics?

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or the United Way 211 program. The Colorado Indigent Care Program provides medical care for persons who do not have health insurance.

I can't afford dental care. Is there help for me?

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or the United Way 211 program.

I need to see an eye doctor and can't afford it. What can I do?

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or the United Way 211 program.

I have questions about my insurance company's practices. Who can I call?

The Department of Regulatory Agencies Division of Insurance can assist you when insurance related questions arise. For information on insurance programs for seniors visit the Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) website.

Housing Options & Handyman Services

Where can I find information on low-income housing?

The United Way, through their 211 program, can assist you in finding low-income housing authorities in the metro and central mountain counties. Supportive Housing and Homeless Programs can assist with housing for disabled and homeless persons. Contact the Colorado Division of Housing for information on Section 8 housing vouchers for low income Colorado residents. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides information on rental and purchase opportunities, Section 8 housing, and provides community education articles.

I need help with home maintenance and repair.

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or the United Way 211 program.

Licensed Care Facilities & In-home Care

How do I find information on nursing homes or assisted living facilities?

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has a comprehensive website that provides information on all licensed facilities in Colorado and provides educational materials to help you choose the best facility for your needs.

How can I learn about the latest survey (inspection) report or the existence and types of complaints against a specific nursing home or other licensed facility?

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment provides survey (inspection) results and complaint histories for all types of licensed care facilities.

I need care services that would allow me to stay in my home. Who do I call?

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging, or the United Way 211 program. The state's single entry point agencies can also assist with finding home care services.

Where can I find information on long-term care services?

The Department of Health Care Policy and Financing provides an overview of long-term care options and how to apply for services.

What is an ombudsman?

The State Long-term Care Ombudsman Program provides services to assist licensed care facility residents in protecting the health, safety, welfare, and rights of the residents.

How can I find an ombudsman in my area?

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to find the ombudsman in your area.

Nutrition

Where do I go to get food stamps?

Call your County Department of Social Services to schedule an appointment to apply for food stamps. Information on food stamps and other food assistance programs can be found on the Colorado Food Assistance Program website.

Where can I get emergency food assistance?

Call your County Department of Social Services to apply for emergency food stamps. United Way 211 provides information on food banks throughout the metro and central mountain region or call your local Area Agency on Aging. Information on food stamps and other food assistance programs can be found on the Colorado Food Assistance Program website.

I'd like to apply for Meals on Wheels or be able to go to a senior center (congregate meal site) for lunch

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging. More information on Colorado's Senior Nutrition program can be found on the Nutrition page of this website.

Other Assistance Programs

Transportation, such as to the grocery store or medical appointments, is difficult for me. Is there help available?

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or visit Senior Source on 9News.com for the Getting There Guide.

Is there free or low-cost legal assistance available to me?

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or the Legal Center for People with Disabilities and Older People

How can I find help for my aging parents who live in another state?

The Eldercare Locator can assist in finding providers in all 50 states.