Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Maine

Last updated: August 2025

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Quick help (for emergencies and urgent needs)

Use the contacts below if you need immediate assistance. If you are in danger or need medical help, call 911.

Reality check: Most programs require paperwork (proof of income, ID, medical documents) and sometimes a waiting list. Start early, keep copies of everything, and ask for application help from your local Area Agency on Aging or a community partner.

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How to use this guide

• This is a practical, Maine-specific roadmap for seniors with disabilities and their families.
• Every claim about a program includes a link to the official or well‑established source.
• You’ll find steps, tips, and warnings where things often get stuck.

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A 5‑step starter plan (do these first)

1. Apply (or re-check eligibility) for core benefits

• MaineCare (Medicaid) and SNAP (Food Supplement) often unlock many other supports. Apply online at My Maine Connection: https://www.maine.gov/mymaineconnection (Maine DHHS Office for Family Independence).
• If you have Medicare, ask about the Medicare Savings Program (MSP) to help pay Medicare costs: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/health-care-assistance/medicare-savings-program.

2. Call your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA)

• Ask for Options Counseling, care coordination, and Meals on Wheels. Find your AAA in the “Resources by region” section below or here: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads (Office of Aging and Disability Services).

3. For prescription costs

• Check Extra Help (Part D Low‑Income Subsidy) through Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/.
• Ask about Maine’s Low‑Cost Drugs for the Elderly and Disabled (DEL) program (see below).

4. For heating and utilities

• Apply for HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) through MaineHousing: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/energy/heap.
• Ask your utility about LIAP and AMP (see “Energy and utilities” below).

5. Long‑term care and home supports

• If you need help to stay at home (personal care, homemaker, adult day, respite), contact OADS and your AAA for assessments and care options: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/long-term-care-services.

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Maine at a glance: why benefits matter

• Maine has one of the oldest populations in the country. According to U.S. Census QuickFacts, an estimated 22.6% of Maine residents were 65+ (2022) U.S. Census QuickFacts – Maine.
• Many supports are available, but they’re spread across different agencies. This guide pulls them together with direct links to apply.

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Program snapshot (what it is, what it does, where to apply)

Tip: If computers are tough, ask your AAA, a local library, or a town office to help submit online forms.

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Health coverage and cost help

MaineCare (Medicaid)

• What it is: MaineCare is Maine’s Medicaid program. It covers health care and long‑term services and supports (LTSS) for those who qualify. See program details here: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/health-care-assistance/mainecare.
• What it does: Pays for doctor visits, hospital care, medications (with limits), rehabilitation, nursing facility care, and many at‑home supports if you meet financial and medical criteria.
• How to apply: Use My Maine Connection: https://www.maine.gov/mymaineconnection. You can also contact the Office for Family Independence (OFI) through the Maine DHHS site: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi.

Long‑term care through MaineCare:

• MaineCare helps eligible seniors get care at home (personal care, homemaker, respite), in assisted living settings, or in nursing facilities. See OADS long‑term care services overview: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/long-term-care-services.
• Home- and Community‑Based Services (HCBS) Waivers: Maine’s key waiver for older adults is Section 19 – Home and Community Benefits for the Elderly and Adults with Disabilities: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/home-community-based-services-hcbs-waivers/section-19. Waivers often have functional eligibility criteria and may have waitlists.

How to get assessed:

• OADS coordinates assessments to determine the right level of care and services: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/long-term-care-services. Your AAA can also help you start this process.

Reality check:

• Waiver services can have waiting lists. If the need is urgent, tell the screener. Keep your contact information up to date so you don’t miss letters.

Medicare, MSP, and drug savings

• Medicare Savings Programs (MSP): Maine can help pay your Medicare premium and other costs if you qualify. Maine has expanded eligibility in recent years; current limits are posted here: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/health-care-assistance/medicare-savings-program.
• Extra Help (Part D LIS): If you have Medicare, Extra Help lowers prescription costs and may reduce your Part D premium: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/.
• Low‑Cost Drugs for the Elderly and Disabled (DEL): A Maine program that helps reduce prescription costs for eligible seniors and adults with disabilities. Learn more through DHHS: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/health-care-assistance.

Free, unbiased Medicare counseling:

• Maine’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) can help you pick plans, understand bills, and appeal denials: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/ship.

Dental

• MaineCare covers adult dental services (policy details are published by the Office of MaineCare Services). Check coverage and enrolled dentists via MaineCare member resources: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oms.
• If you do not have MaineCare, the Donated Dental Services program may help some seniors with disabilities: https://dentallifeline.org/maine/.

Hearing and vision

• Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DBVI): services and equipment for vision loss: https://www.maine.gov/rehab/dbvi.
• Maine Telecommunications Equipment Program (for qualifying Mainers who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or have a speech disability): https://drme.org/telecommunications-equipment-program.
• Maine Relay: https://www.maine.gov/maine-relay/.

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Home and community supports

Meals and nutrition

• Meals on Wheels: Provided statewide through the five Area Agencies on Aging. Contact your regional AAA (see the table below) for eligibility and sign‑up.
• SNAP (Food Supplement): Monthly funds for groceries. Apply at My Maine Connection: https://www.maine.gov/mymaineconnection. Program info: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/food-supplement.
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Monthly shelf‑stable food box for older adults meeting income guidelines, administered in Maine with Good Shepherd Food Bank and partners. Learn more: https://www.gsfb.org/programs/csfp/.
• Maine Senior FarmShare: Eligible older adults receive a share of locally grown fruits and vegetables from participating farmers. Details and how to enroll: https://www.maine.gov/dacf/ard/seniorfarmshare/index.shtml.

Reality check:

• Meals on Wheels routes are busy; there can be a wait. Ask about “check‑in calls” and emergency shelf‑stable boxes if you’re at risk of running out of food.

Transportation

• MaineCare Non‑Emergency Transportation (NET): If you have MaineCare, rides to covered medical appointments may be available. See MaineCare transportation: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oms/member-services/transportation.
• Local/regional providers: Many communities offer volunteer driver programs and ADA paratransit; your AAA can connect you to options.
• ITNPortland (Greater Portland area): A nonprofit for dignified rides for seniors, fee‑based: https://www.itnportland.org/.

Tip:

• Book rides early. If a medical appointment is rescheduled, call the transportation provider right away to avoid “no‑show” issues.

Assistive technology and home mods

• Maine CITE: Maine’s Assistive Technology Act program—device demos, loans, reuse, and information: https://mainecite.org/.
• Alpha One: Independent Living Center offering home modification guidance and services; also administers the mPower low‑interest assistive technology loan program: https://alphaonenow.org/ and mPower: https://alphaonenow.org/mpower/.
• MaineHousing Home Accessibility Program (HAP): Funds for ramps, bathroom changes, and safety fixes: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/HomeImprovement/home-accessibility-program.

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Money, bills, and everyday costs

Food benefits

• SNAP (Food Supplement): Maine’s program page: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/food-supplement. Apply online: https://www.maine.gov/mymaineconnection.
• CSFP and Senior FarmShare: See links above.

Tip:

• Tell OFI if your medical costs are high; allowable medical expenses can sometimes increase your SNAP benefit. See OFI guidance in the SNAP section: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/food-supplement.

Energy and utilities

Reality check:

• HEAP runs on a seasonal schedule. Apply early. If you can’t get an appointment, ask your town office or AAA for help finding an agency with openings.

Property taxes and rent relief

• Property Tax Fairness Credit: A refundable state income tax credit that can provide relief to eligible homeowners and renters. Details and how to claim: https://www.maine.gov/revenue/taxes/tax-relief-credits-programs/income-tax-credits/property-tax-fairness-credit.
• State Property Tax Deferral Program for Seniors and Disabled: For eligible homeowners, Maine may defer property taxes until the home is sold or the estate settles. Program details and forms: https://www.maine.gov/revenue/taxes/tax-relief-credits-programs/property-tax-relief-programs/property-tax-deferral-program.

Important:

• These programs have income and asset rules that can change. Read the current forms and instructions on the Maine Revenue Services pages above or ask your local assessor’s office.

Phone and internet

• Lifeline (phone/internet discount): Federal program for low‑income households. Learn more and apply via USAC: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/.
• Maine Connectivity Authority: Statewide broadband efforts and projects; check for local options and digital inclusion partners: https://www.maineconnectivity.org/.
• Note on ACP: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program stopped accepting new enrollments in 2024 due to lapsing funds. Check the FCC for any updates: https://www.fcc.gov/acp.

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Housing, accessibility, and long‑term care

Staying in your home

• Home Accessibility Program (HAP): MaineHousing funding for ramps, grab bars, stair lifts, bathroom modifications, and similar work: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/HomeImprovement/home-accessibility-program.
• Weatherization Assistance: Energy upgrades that also improve comfort and safety: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/HomeImprovement/weatherization.
• USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Grants/Loans): For very low‑income rural homeowners—grants for certain repairs are available for adults 62+. Start here: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants. USDA Maine state office: https://www.rd.usda.gov/me.

Tip:

• For any contractor work, get at least two written estimates and ask about permits. If someone pressures you to sign today, walk away. For consumer protection help, see the Maine Attorney General’s Consumer protection page: https://www.maine.gov/ag/consumer.

Renting and assisted living

• Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8): Rental assistance for eligible households. MaineHousing program information: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/rental/housing-choice-voucher.
• Affordable housing search: MaineHousing’s tools can help you find participating properties and local housing authorities: https://www.mainehousing.org/.
• Assisted housing and long‑term care: For complaints or questions about care, contact the Maine Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program: https://www.maineombudsman.org/.

Nursing facilities and licensing

• Facility information and licensing: Maine DHHS Division of Licensing and Certification publishes facility information and inspections. See facility resources: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/dlc.
• Compare nursing homes nationally by quality measures: Medicare Care Compare: https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/.

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Choosing care: side‑by‑side overview

Reality check:

• Moving between levels of care is common. Keep copies of assessments and discharge summaries to speed up transitions.

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Work, income, and financial protection

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Federal benefits based on disability and/or limited income and resources. Apply or manage benefits: https://www.ssa.gov/.
• Maine State Supplement to SSI: Maine may add a state payment for SSI recipients depending on living arrangement and other factors. See Maine DHHS for state supplement details under cash assistance programs: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi.
• SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program): Part‑time, paid training for eligible older job seekers; available in Maine through national grantees. Program overview (U.S. Department of Labor): https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/scsep. Maine providers include Goodwill NNE and Associates for Training & Development (A4TD): https://goodwillnne.org/workforce-services/scsep/ and https://www.a4td.org/.

Protecting your money:

• Consumer protection and scams: Maine Attorney General’s Consumer protection division has alerts and complaint forms: https://www.maine.gov/ag/consumer.
• Medicare fraud: Contact SHIP for billing questions: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/ship or report to Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov/basics/reporting-medicare-fraud-and-abuse.

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Caregivers and family support

• Caregiver services (information, training, respite) are available through Maine’s AAAs under the National Family Caregiver Support Program. Start with your AAA (see regional table).
• OADS “Respite for ME” provides short‑term relief options for family caregivers: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/caregivers/respite-for-me.
• Dementia support: AAAs offer memory‑care education and safety planning. For national resources, see the Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org/.

Tip:

• Ask your AAA about caregiver support groups and respite grants. Small grants can prevent burnout.

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Inclusivity: resources for specific communities

Veteran seniors

• Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services (MBVS): Benefits counseling, claims help, and local Veterans’ Service Officers: https://www.maine.gov/veterans/.
• VA Maine (Togus) health care: Primary care, specialty clinics, home‑based care: https://www.va.gov/maine-health-care/.
• Aid & Attendance (A&A): A VA pension add‑on for veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily activities or are housebound: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/.
• Maine Veterans’ Homes: State Veterans’ Homes with long‑term care and rehab: https://mainevets.org/.

Tip:

• Bring discharge papers (DD‑214) to appointments. Ask MBVS about property tax benefits for disabled veterans and other state programs.

LGBTQ+ seniors

• SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline: 877‑360‑LGBT (5428) with support and referrals: https://www.sageusa.org/hotline/.
• Maine AAAs welcome LGBTQ+ older adults and can point to inclusive services. For statewide equity work, see EqualityMaine: https://www.equalitymaine.org/ (advocacy and community programs).

Reality check:

• If you’ve had past discrimination in care settings, you can request a different provider. The Long‑Term Care Ombudsman can help address concerns: https://www.maineombudsman.org/.

Tribal elders

• Wabanaki Public Health & Wellness: Tailored elder services and supports for Wabanaki communities: https://www.wabanakiphw.org/.
• Indian Health Service (Nashville Area): Tribal health resources and contact links: https://www.ihs.gov/nashville/.
• Maine DHHS Tribal Affairs: State liaison for tribal coordination and services: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/about/contact/tribal-affairs.

Tip:

• Tribal members can often access both tribal and state benefits. Ask a tribal social services office and your AAA to coordinate.

Rural seniors and limited access areas

• Transportation: Use MaineCare NET for medical rides if eligible: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oms/member-services/transportation. Ask your AAA about volunteer driver programs.
• Telehealth: Check your clinic’s telehealth options; ask about phone‑only visits if internet is limited.
• Connectivity: See the Maine Connectivity Authority for local broadband projects and partners: https://www.maineconnectivity.org/. If you qualify, apply for Lifeline: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/.

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Frequently asked questions (Maine‑specific)

1. How do I know if I qualify for the Medicare Savings Program (MSP) in Maine?

• Maine posts the current income limits and application steps here: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/health-care-assistance/medicare-savings-program. If you’re close to the limits, apply anyway—some costs are excluded from income.

2. I’m on Medicare. Can I still get MaineCare?

• Possibly. Some Mainers qualify for “full‑benefit” MaineCare, and others qualify for MSP help with Medicare costs only. Start with OFI: https://www.maine.gov/mymaineconnection and ask SHIP for guidance: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/ship.

3. I need help at home. Where do I start?

• Contact your AAA for Options Counseling and OADS for an assessment: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/long-term-care-services. If you may qualify for Section 19 (HCBS for Elderly & Adults with Disabilities), see: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/home-community-based-services-hcbs-waivers/section-19.

4. Is there help for a wheelchair ramp or bathroom changes?

• Yes. Check MaineHousing’s Home Accessibility Program (HAP): https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/HomeImprovement/home-accessibility-program. Also see Alpha One for home mods and mPower loans: https://alphaonenow.org/ and https://alphaonenow.org/mpower/.

5. Where can I get reliable Medicare advice that isn’t trying to sell me something?

• Maine SHIP (free, unbiased) can help you compare options and avoid sales pressure: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/ship.

6. I’m low on heating fuel in winter. What should I do?

• Call your local HEAP agency through MaineHousing: https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/energy/heap. If it’s an emergency, tell them it’s a “no‑heat” or “crisis” situation.

7. I can’t afford my electric bill. Are there discounts?

• Yes. Ask about LIAP and the Arrearage Management Program (AMP) through your utility. Program info: LIAP: https://www.maine.gov/mpuc/regulated-utilities/electricity/low-income-assistance-program and AMP: https://www.maine.gov/mpuc/regulated-utilities/electricity/arrearage-management-program.

8. How do I apply for SNAP (Food Supplement) if I don’t use computers?

• Call OFI or visit a DHHS district office, or ask your AAA for help. You can also apply online at: https://www.maine.gov/mymaineconnection. Program info: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/food-supplement.

9. Is there help for property taxes or rent?

• Check the Property Tax Fairness Credit: https://www.maine.gov/revenue/taxes/tax-relief-credits-programs/income-tax-credits/property-tax-fairness-credit. If you’re a homeowner 65+ or disabled, ask about the State Property Tax Deferral Program: https://www.maine.gov/revenue/taxes/tax-relief-credits-programs/property-tax-relief-programs/property-tax-deferral-program.

10. Who can help if I think a nursing home isn’t giving proper care?

• Contact the Maine Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program: https://www.maineombudsman.org/. You can also review facility information here: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/dlc and on Medicare Care Compare: https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/.

11. I’m a veteran. What benefits might help me stay at home?

• Ask MBVS about VA Aid & Attendance and home‑based services: https://www.maine.gov/veterans/ and https://www.va.gov/maine-health-care/ and A&A details: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/.

12. Is there help for phones or internet if I’m on a fixed income?

• See Lifeline for phone/internet discounts: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/. For Maine broadband updates and local partners: https://www.maineconnectivity.org/.

13. Who do I call if I suspect abuse or financial exploitation?

• Report to Maine Adult Protective Services: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/aps. If it’s an emergency, call 911.

14. How can I get rides to medical appointments?

• If you have MaineCare, see NET transportation: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oms/member-services/transportation. Otherwise, ask your AAA about volunteer drivers and ADA options in your area.

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Resources by region (Area Agencies on Aging)

These five AAAs serve every county in Maine. Call for Meals on Wheels, Options Counseling, caregiver support, Medicare counseling (SHIP), and local referrals.

If you’re not sure which AAA serves your town, use the OADS aging services page: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads.

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Legal, safety, and advocacy

• Legal Services for the Elderly (LSE): Free civil legal help for Mainers 60+: https://www.mainelse.org/.
• Adult Protective Services (APS): Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/aps.
• Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program: Independent help with complaints about nursing homes, assisted living, and home care services: https://www.maineombudsman.org/.
• Consumer protection (scams, contracts, home repair issues): Maine Attorney General: https://www.maine.gov/ag/consumer.

Warning:

• No one from Medicare, Social Security, or Maine DHHS will call to ask for your bank account or your full Social Security number out of the blue. Hang up, and call the agency back using a number from its official website.

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More useful comparisons

Energy and utilities programs at a glance

Long‑term services funding pathways

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Sources (official and well‑established)

• Maine DHHS, Office for Family Independence (apply for MaineCare, MSP, SNAP): https://www.maine.gov/mymaineconnection and program pages at https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi.
• Maine DHHS, Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS): long‑term care, APS, SHIP: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads.
• Office of MaineCare Services (transportation, member info): https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oms.
• MaineHousing (HEAP, Weatherization, Home Accessibility): https://www.mainehousing.org/.
• Maine Public Utilities Commission (LIAP, AMP): https://www.maine.gov/mpuc/.
• Maine Revenue Services (tax relief and credits): https://www.maine.gov/revenue/.
• Legal Services for the Elderly: https://www.mainelse.org/.
• Maine Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program: https://www.maineombudsman.org/.
• U.S. Social Security Administration (Extra Help/Part D LIS): https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp/.
• U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development (Section 504): https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants.
• U.S. Census QuickFacts – Maine (older adult statistics): https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/ME.
• Wabanaki Public Health & Wellness: https://www.wabanakiphw.org/.
• VA Maine Healthcare System and MBVS: https://www.va.gov/maine-health-care/ and https://www.maine.gov/veterans/.

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Practical tips to avoid delays

• Keep a benefits folder: ID, Social Security card, Medicare card, bank statements, medical bills, rent/mortgage, utility bills, and doctor letters.
• Write down every call: date, time, person’s name, and what was said.
• If denied, appeal by the deadline on the letter. Ask SHIP (Medicare) or AAA (other programs) to help.
• If you move or change phone numbers, update every agency—missed mail is a common cause of lost benefits.

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Disclaimer

Program rules, eligibility, and funding can change. Always confirm details with the official agency or program website linked in this guide. This article is for general information and is not legal, tax, or medical advice.

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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: August 2025
• Sources Verified: Our citations point to official government or well‑established program pages; please follow the links for the most current updates.
• Next Review: February 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.