Emergency Assistance, Resources, and Programs for Seniors in Alaska (2026 Guide)

Last updated: January 26, 2026

— Practical, state-specific help for Alaskans age 60+ and their caregivers. Links go to official agencies or well-established statewide providers.

Quick Help Box (keep this handy)

• Medical or safety emergency: Dial 911.
• Mental health crisis or thoughts of self-harm: Call or text 988, or use the chat at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org
• Find urgent local help (food, shelter, utility help, transport): Call 2‑1‑1 or visit Alaska 2‑1‑1: https://alaska211.org
• Abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a senior or vulnerable adult: Report to Alaska Adult Protective Services (APS): https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/aps/default.aspx
• Problems in a nursing home or assisted living home: Contact the Alaska Long Term Care Ombudsman: https://ltcoak.org
• Eviction or housing legal help: Alaska Legal Services Corporation: https://www.alsc-law.org
• Hardship with heat or electric bills: See the Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP) page: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/hap/default.aspx

Reality check: Some programs have waitlists, short application windows, or paperwork. If you run into a roadblock, call your local Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) for free, one-on-one guidance: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/default.aspx

How to use this guide

• Start with “Emergency help first” for immediate problems.
• Then scan the topic you need: money and bills, housing, food, health and caregiving, or special resources for rural, tribal, LGBTQ+, and veteran seniors.
• Use the tables for side‑by‑side comparisons and quick links.
• When in doubt, call Alaska 2‑1‑1 or your ADRC. They can help you apply.

Emergency help first (fast action steps)

Medical, behavioral health, and safety

• Call 911 for immediate danger or medical emergencies.
• For a mental health crisis, dial 988 or visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org
• For disasters (floods, wildfires, earthquakes), check the Alaska Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Management: https://ready.alaska.gov and the National Weather Service Alaska Region: https://www.weather.gov/afc/
• If a federal disaster is declared, FEMA may offer Individual Assistance; learn more at FEMA Individual Assistance: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual

Abuse, neglect, or exploitation

• Report suspected abuse or neglect of a senior to Alaska Adult Protective Services (APS): https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/aps/default.aspx
• Concerns about care in a nursing home or assisted living home? Contact the Alaska Long Term Care Ombudsman for confidential help: https://ltcoak.org

Homelessness or eviction

• Call Alaska 2‑1‑1 (or visit https://alaska211.org) for nearby shelters, warming centers, and coordinated entry.
• If you receive an eviction notice, call Alaska Legal Services Corporation right away: https://www.alsc-law.org
• If a disaster or sudden loss of housing occurs, check with your borough/city emergency management and the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) resources page: https://www.ahfc.us

No food at home

• Use Alaska 2‑1‑1 for the nearest food pantry: https://alaska211.org
• Ask your local senior center about same-day emergency meals and home-delivered meals (Meals on Wheels).
• Learn about SNAP (Food Stamps) through the Division of Public Assistance: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa

Heat, electricity, or fuel about to run out

• Contact your utility immediately to ask about a payment plan and shutoff protections.
• See Alaska’s Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP), including application windows and eligibility: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/hap/default.aspx
• If you live in a community covered by Power Cost Equalization (PCE), ask your local utility how PCE reduces your electric rate: https://www.akenergyauthority.org/What-We-Do/Power-Cost-Equalization

Communication help

• If you have trouble hearing or speaking on the phone, dial 711 for Alaska Relay: https://www.alaskarelay.com
• For discounted phone service, check the federal Lifeline program (higher benefit on Tribal lands): https://www.lifelinesupport.org

Table 1 — Alaska emergency and urgent help quick sheet

Tip: If phone lines are busy, use the websites above. Many have online referral forms or chat.

The Alaska programs seniors use most

Alaska delivers many senior services through the Department of Health and partner agencies. These are the programs most commonly used in emergencies or to stay stable.

• Division of Senior and Disabilities Services (SDS): https://health.alaska.gov/dsds
  • Runs or coordinates home- and community-based services, Adult Protective Services, Aging & Disability Resource Centers, and more.
• Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs): https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/default.aspx
  • Free, unbiased help to find services and apply for benefits statewide.
• Alaska Medicaid (also called DenaliCare): https://medicaid.alaska.gov
  • Health coverage for eligible low‑income seniors and people with disabilities; includes nursing home care and home- and community-based services if you qualify.
• Alaska Pioneer Homes (6 locations statewide): https://www.alaskapioneerhomes.org
  • State‑operated assisted living in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, and Palmer (the Alaska Veterans & Pioneers Home). Payment assistance is available for those who qualify.
• Alaska Medicare Information Office (SHIP/SMP): helps with Medicare choices, costs, and fraud. Start at SDS and ask for Medicare counseling: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds
• General Relief Assistance (GRA): emergency aid for those with no other resources, including indigent burials. See the Division of Public Assistance: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa

Note on the Alaska Senior Benefits Program: This state cash benefit for low‑income Alaskans age 65+ has had changes over the years based on state law and funding. Always verify current status, payment levels, and how to apply on the official page from the Department of Health: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa

Table 2 — Key Alaska senior programs at a glance

Reality check: Medicaid, Pioneer Homes, and some housing programs can have waitlists or eligibility steps. Start paperwork early and ask your ADRC for help if you’re stuck.

Money and bills: keeping up and catching up

Property tax relief for seniors and disabled veterans

• Alaska law requires municipalities to offer a property tax exemption for at least the first portion of your primary residence’s value if you are age 65+ or a disabled veteran. Local rules vary (some offer more). See the official state overview and then contact your borough or city assessor: Senior Citizen and Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption (State of Alaska): https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/dcra/ResearchAnalysis/SeniorCitizenandDisabledVeteranPropertyTaxExemption.aspx

Tip: Filing deadlines are strict—ask your local assessor’s office when the annual application is due.

Phone and internet savings

• Lifeline: Federal discount on phone or internet (higher benefit on Tribal lands). Learn eligibility and how to apply at the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC): https://www.lifelinesupport.org

Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ran out of funding in 2024. Lifeline is still active.

Energy and home weatherization

• Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Helps pay for heat (fuel oil, natural gas, electric, wood, propane) for eligible households. Check application windows, documents, and income rules here: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/hap/default.aspx
• Weatherization: Free energy upgrades for eligible households statewide, often delivered by local agencies such as Rural Alaska Community Action Program (RurAL CAP): https://ruralcap.org/weatherization and Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC): https://www.ahfc.us
• Power Cost Equalization (PCE): Lowers the per‑kilowatt‑hour cost of electricity in many rural communities. You don’t apply individually—the discount shows up on eligible utility bills. Program overview: https://www.akenergyauthority.org/What-We-Do/Power-Cost-Equalization

Transportation for medical care

• Medicaid medical travel: If you have Alaska Medicaid and need to travel for medically necessary care not available locally, speak with your provider about travel authorization through Medicaid: https://medicaid.alaska.gov
• Many communities offer senior or paratransit rides for medical visits (examples in “Resources by Region” below). If you’re unsure, ask your ADRC: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/default.aspx

Table 3 — Housing and utilities help in Alaska

Reality check: Rental help and senior housing can have long waits. Put your name on multiple waitlists and check in regularly.

Housing: staying housed or finding housing

• Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC): Public housing, Housing Choice Vouchers, and senior/disabled housing options are available statewide through AHFC and local housing partners. Start here: https://www.ahfc.us
• Home modifications for accessibility: Ask AHFC about accessibility and home-repair programs that may be available through local partners. Begin at the AHFC Programs page: https://www.ahfc.us
• Homelessness prevention and shelter: Alaska 2‑1‑1 maintains a current list of shelter and prevention programs: https://alaska211.org
• Eviction and tenant rights: Contact Alaska Legal Services Corporation for advice and representation: https://www.alsc-law.org
• Alaska Pioneer Homes: Assisted living with different care levels and a payment assistance program for those who qualify. Learn about locations, application steps, and costs: https://www.alaskapioneerhomes.org

Tip: Keep a folder of essential documents (ID, Social Security card, benefit letters, utility bills, lease). It speeds up housing and energy applications.

Food and nutrition

• SNAP (Food Stamps): Monthly benefits on an EBT card for groceries. Start at the Alaska Division of Public Assistance (DPA) to learn eligibility and how to apply online, by mail, or in person: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP, “Senior Food Box”): Monthly box of staple foods for eligible seniors. The Food Bank of Alaska administers CSFP statewide with local partners. Program info: https://foodbankofalaska.org (look for “CSFP” or “Senior Box”).
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal coupons to buy fresh Alaska-grown produce from authorized farmers. Federal program overview: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp; ask your local senior center or ADRC how to get coupons in your area.
• Congregate and Home-Delivered Meals (Older Americans Act): Free or low‑cost meals at senior centers, and Meals on Wheels for homebound seniors. Find providers via your ADRC: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/default.aspx

Table 4 — Food programs for Alaska seniors

Tip: If you qualify for one food program, you may qualify for others. Ask your ADRC to check everything at once.

Health care and caregiving

• Medicare help: The Alaska Medicare Information Office (SHIP) offers free counseling to compare plans, check drug coverage, and identify savings. Start at SDS and ask for Medicare help: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds
• Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI): These may pay Medicare Part B premiums and sometimes Part A/B cost-sharing for qualifying Alaskans. See Alaska Medicaid for details and how to apply: https://medicaid.alaska.gov
• Long-term care and in-home supports:
  • Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers and Personal Care Services can help you live at home with supports such as personal care, adult day, respite, or skilled services. Start with your ADRC for screening and referrals: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/default.aspx
• Family caregiver help:
  • The National Family Caregiver Support Program (through local providers) offers respite, training, and support groups. Ask your ADRC.
• Long-term care complaints and resident rights: Alaska Long Term Care Ombudsman: https://ltcoak.org
• Community health centers: Sliding‑fee health, dental, and behavioral health care across Alaska: find a clinic with the Alaska Primary Care Association directory: https://www.alaskapca.org/find-a-health-center

Table 5 — Health and long-term care supports

Inclusive and specialized resources

LGBTQ+ seniors

• Identity Alaska offers statewide support, referrals, and community resources: https://identityalaska.org
• National SAGE LGBT Elder Hotline provides support and information: https://www.sageusa.org (look for the hotline)
• Medicare and Medicaid are equal‑access programs; if you face discrimination, report it and ask your ADRC or Legal Services for help.

Reality check: In small communities, privacy can be a concern. Ask for a phone or video appointment if you prefer.

Veteran seniors

• Alaska Office of Veterans Affairs (State of Alaska): Benefits navigation and state veteran services: https://veterans.alaska.gov
• VA Alaska Health Care System: Clinics in Anchorage and across the state; travel support may be available for eligible care: https://www.va.gov/alaska-health-care/
• VA Aid & Attendance and Housebound pension add‑ons may help pay for care. Learn how to apply: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Alaska Veterans & Pioneers Home (Palmer): Part of the Alaska Pioneer Homes system, serving veterans and eligible spouses: https://www.alaskapioneerhomes.org

Tip: Bring your DD‑214 to benefit appointments.

Tribal-specific resources (Alaska Native/American Indian)

• Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC): Statewide specialty care and support, with regional tribal health partners: https://anthc.org
• Indian Health Service, Alaska Area: Clinic and hospital network information: https://www.ihs.gov/alaska/
• BIA Financial Assistance & Social Services (Emergency Assistance may be available): https://www.bia.gov/bia/ois/dhs/financial-assistance
• Tribal LIHEAP: Many tribes offer their own heating assistance. Find your Tribal LIHEAP contact: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/map/liheap-tribal-contact-list

Tip: If you receive services through a tribal health organization, ask your case manager about travel, lodging (patient housing), and care coordination. These supports can be vital for rural seniors.

Rural seniors and families

• Power Cost Equalization (PCE) may lower electric bills in many rural communities: https://www.akenergyauthority.org/What-We-Do/Power-Cost-Equalization
• Use your local clinic and CHAP (Community Health Aide/Practitioner) network, with telehealth links to specialists through tribal health systems: https://www.ihs.gov/alaska/
• Medicaid medical travel can help when specialty care isn’t available locally; talk with your provider about authorizations: https://medicaid.alaska.gov
• For weatherization and fuel assistance, apply early (air/rural deliveries take time): LIHEAP HAP: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/hap/default.aspx; Weatherization via RurAL CAP: https://ruralcap.org/weatherization
• Mail‑order pharmacies and 90‑day refills reduce expensive last‑minute trips; ask your doctor or Medicare plan.

Resources by region (selected)

Note: Use Alaska 2‑1‑1 for up‑to‑date local referrals: https://alaska211.org. The ADRC network can also connect you to regional providers: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/default.aspx

Anchorage and Mat‑Su

• Municipality of Anchorage Public Transit (People Mover, AnchorRIDES paratransit): https://www.muni.org/departments/transit and https://www.muni.org/departments/health/anchorrides
• Alaska Pioneer Home — Anchorage: https://www.alaskapioneerhomes.org
• Alaska Veterans & Pioneers Home — Palmer (Mat‑Su): https://www.alaskapioneerhomes.org
• Alaska Legal Services — Anchorage: https://www.alsc-law.org

Fairbanks & Interior (including many villages served by TCC)

• Fairbanks North Star Borough Van Tran (paratransit): https://www.fnsb.gov/384/Van-Tran
• Tanana Chiefs Conference (regional health and social services): https://www.tananachiefs.org
• Alaska Pioneer Home — Fairbanks: https://www.alaskapioneerhomes.org

Kenai Peninsula & Kodiak

• Kenai Peninsula Borough services: https://www.kpb.us
• Central Peninsula Hospital (senior resources): https://www.cpgh.org
• Alaska 2‑1‑1 for local senior centers and meals: https://alaska211.org
• Kodiak area tribal/health resources (KANA): https://kodiakhealthcare.org

Juneau & Southeast (including island communities)

• Care‑A‑Van (paratransit, Juneau): https://www.ccsjuneau.org/our-programs/care-a-van
• Southeast Alaska Independent Living (SAIL) — ADRC and independent living services across SE: https://www.sailinc.org
• SEARHC (regional tribal health): https://searhc.org
• Alaska Pioneer Homes — Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan: https://www.alaskapioneerhomes.org

Southwest, Y‑K Delta, and Aleutians

• Yukon‑Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC): https://www.ykhc.org
• Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation (BBAHC): https://www.bbahc.org
• Aleutian/Pribilof Islands Association (APIA): https://www.apiai.org

Northwest Arctic & Norton Sound

• Maniilaq Association: https://maniilaq.org
• Norton Sound Health Corporation: https://www.nortonsoundhealth.org

North Slope/Arctic

• Arctic Slope Native Association (Samuel Simmonds Memorial Hospital, Barrow/Utqiagvik): https://arcticslope.org

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: I’m running out of heating fuel. Can I get help fast?

• A: Call your fuel vendor and ask about payment plans or emergency delivery. Then contact the Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to see if emergency benefits are available: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/hap/default.aspx. If you are on Tribal lands, ask your tribe about Tribal LIHEAP: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/map/liheap-tribal-contact-list. Alaska 2‑1‑1 can also point you to local emergency funds: https://alaska211.org.

Q: How do I get home-delivered meals (Meals on Wheels) in my town or village?

• A: Call your local senior center or your regional ADRC: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/default.aspx. If you’re homebound and age 60+, you may qualify for home-delivered meals. In small or remote communities, ask about frozen deliveries or bulk shelf‑stable boxes.

Q: Is there help for my Medicare costs in Alaska?

• A: Yes. If your income/asset levels fit, Medicare Savings Programs may pay your Part B premium and sometimes co‑pays. Start with the Alaska Medicare Information Office (SHIP) via SDS: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds or apply through Alaska Medicaid: https://medicaid.alaska.gov.

Q: Can Alaska help with my property taxes as a senior?

• A: Alaska law requires municipalities to offer an exemption for seniors 65+ and disabled veterans on at least a portion of a primary residence. Read the state overview, then contact your city/borough assessor for local rules and deadlines: https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/dcra/ResearchAnalysis/SeniorCitizenandDisabledVeteranPropertyTaxExemption.aspx.

Q: I think my mom is being financially exploited. What should I do?

• A: If she is in immediate danger, call 911. Otherwise, report suspected abuse or exploitation to Alaska Adult Protective Services: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/aps/default.aspx. If she lives in a care facility, also contact the Long Term Care Ombudsman: https://ltcoak.org.

Q: I’m a veteran. Is there a senior home for veterans in Alaska?

• A: Yes. The Alaska Veterans & Pioneers Home is in Palmer and is part of the state Pioneer Homes system: https://www.alaskapioneerhomes.org. For VA healthcare and benefits, start with the Alaska Office of Veterans Affairs: https://veterans.alaska.gov and VA Alaska Health Care: https://www.va.gov/alaska-health-care/.

Q: How do I apply for SNAP (Food Stamps) or Medicaid online?

• A: Visit the Alaska Division of Public Assistance (DPA) for SNAP and Medicaid information and application options (online, phone, mail, in person): https://health.alaska.gov/dpa. If online forms are hard to use, ask your ADRC or a local senior center for free help.

Q: Is the Alaska Senior Benefits Program still available?

• A: The program has had changes over time. Always check the Alaska Department of Health for current status, amounts, and how to apply: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa. Your ADRC can help you apply if it’s active in your area.

Q: I live in a village with no road access. Can Medicaid help me travel for medical care?

• A: If you have Alaska Medicaid and need medically necessary services not available locally, your provider can request Medicaid travel authorization. Start with your clinic or tribal health organization and the Alaska Medicaid site: https://medicaid.alaska.gov.

Q: Who can help me compare Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans in Alaska?

• A: Contact the Alaska Medicare Information Office (SHIP) for free, unbiased counseling. Start at SDS and ask for Medicare help: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds.

Statewide resource directory (official and well-established)

• Alaska Department of Health (home): https://health.alaska.gov
• Division of Senior and Disabilities Services (SDS): https://health.alaska.gov/dsds
• Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs): https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/default.aspx
• Adult Protective Services (APS): https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/aps/default.aspx
• Alaska Long Term Care Ombudsman: https://ltcoak.org
• Alaska Medicaid (DenaliCare): https://medicaid.alaska.gov
• Division of Public Assistance (SNAP, HAP/LIHEAP, cash assistance): https://health.alaska.gov/dpa
• Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP): https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/hap/default.aspx
• Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC): https://www.ahfc.us
• Alaska Pioneer Homes: https://www.alaskapioneerhomes.org
• Alaska 2‑1‑1 (United Way): https://alaska211.org
• Alaska Legal Services Corporation: https://www.alsc-law.org
• Alaska Energy Authority — PCE: https://www.akenergyauthority.org/What-We-Do/Power-Cost-Equalization
• RurAL CAP — Weatherization: https://ruralcap.org/weatherization
• Property Tax Exemption (Seniors/Disabled Veterans): https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/dcra/ResearchAnalysis/SeniorCitizenandDisabledVeteranPropertyTaxExemption.aspx
• Alaska Primary Care Association — Find a Health Center: https://www.alaskapca.org/find-a-health-center
• Identity Alaska (LGBTQ+): https://identityalaska.org
• SAGE (LGBT elder resources): https://www.sageusa.org
• Alaska Office of Veterans Affairs: https://veterans.alaska.gov
• VA Alaska Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/alaska-health-care/
• ANTHC (Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium): https://anthc.org
• IHS — Alaska Area: https://www.ihs.gov/alaska/
• BIA Financial Assistance & Social Services: https://www.bia.gov/bia/ois/dhs/financial-assistance
• Lifeline (phone/internet discount): https://www.lifelinesupport.org
• Alaska Relay (711): https://www.alaskarelay.com
• FEMA Individual Assistance: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org

Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Seasonal windows: Heating assistance and farmers’ market coupons have limited seasons. Apply early.
• Waitlists: Senior housing, Pioneer Homes, and some in-home care programs may have waitlists. Get on the list now and keep your contact info updated.
• Documentation: Keep copies of ID, Social Security, Medicaid/Medicare cards, proof of Alaska residency, income, bank statements, and utility bills. Missing documents are a common cause of delays.
• Rural logistics: Weather, flight schedules, and barge/fuel delivery cycles can slow things down. Build extra time into everything—refills, appointments, and applications.
• Avoid scams: If someone asks for your Medicare or Social Security number over the phone, hang up and call the official number yourself. Report Medicare fraud to SHIP/SMP via SDS: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds

Disclaimer

Program details, eligibility, payment amounts, application windows, and websites can change. Always confirm information with the official agency or your local ADRC before you apply. Links in this guide go to state, federal, or well-established organizations, but policies and pages are updated over time.

About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: January 2026
• Sources Verified: January 2026
• Next Review: May 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.