Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Colorado

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box

What this guide covers and how to use it

This Colorado-specific guide focuses on practical steps, real programs, and direct links to official sources. It’s written for older adults living with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. Start with the emergency box above if you need urgent help. Then scroll to the sections that match your needs: health care and long-term supports, cash and food assistance, housing, utilities, transportation, legal help, and local contacts.

You’ll find:

  • Plain-language explanations of programs, who they serve, and how to apply
  • Colorado-specific services and state agencies
  • Tables to compare options quickly
  • Tips and reality checks where people commonly get stuck
  • A resources-by-region section to help you find local offices

At the end, see the FAQs, Resources, and About This Guide.

Who this guide is for

  • Colorado residents age 60+ with disabilities (or those approaching 60 with a permanent disability)
  • Older adults on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Seniors who need help with daily activities, nursing home care, assisted living, or home care
  • Caregivers helping an older adult with a disability

Note: Some programs in Colorado use age 60+, others 65+, and some are based on disability status. When in doubt, check the eligibility section of each link and apply—you won’t be penalized for applying.

Health Care and Long-Term Services & Supports (LTSS)

Health First Colorado (Colorado’s Medicaid)

  • What it is: Colorado’s Medicaid program. It covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health care, rides to medical visits, and more. It also funds home and community-based services (HCBS) for people who need help with daily activities.
  • Who it helps: Low- and modest-income Coloradans, including older adults and people with disabilities. Financial and medical criteria apply.
  • Why it matters: Medicaid can cover expensive long-term supports that Medicare does not (like personal care at home or in assisted living, if you qualify).
  • How to apply: Apply online or get help by phone/locally.

Official source: Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing (HCPF)

Reality check:

  • LTSS eligibility requires a functional needs assessment and financial review.
  • Some services have waiting lists or limited provider availability in certain counties.
  • Keep paperwork and ID, proof of income, and medical records ready to speed things up.

Medicare + Medicaid (Dual-Eligible)

Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI)

  • What they do: Pay some or all of your Medicare Part A/Part B premiums and may help with deductibles and coinsurance (programs vary).
  • How to apply in Colorado: Through Medicaid/PEAK or your county human services office.

Part D Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy)

Long-Term Services & Supports (HCBS Waivers)

Colorado uses HCBS waivers to deliver help at home or in the community instead of a nursing home.

  • Elderly, Blind, and Disabled (EBD) Waiver: For people who meet a nursing facility level of care and need help with activities of daily living. Can include personal care, homemaker services, respite, case management, and, in some cases, support in an Alternative Care Facility (assisted living).
  • Other waivers support specific needs (brain injury, mental health supports, spinal cord injury pilot services, and more).
  • Start here: Colorado HCBS Waivers – Overview
  • Long-Term Services & Supports info: Colorado LTSS
  • Local intake and help: Your county’s Single Entry Point (SEP) or Community Centered Board (CCB) will do assessments and help you apply. Find them via: Find LTSS contacts (HCPF) then select “Finding LTSS services” for local agencies.

Reality check:

  • Expect a functional assessment and financial review.
  • Availability varies by county. If a service is full, ask for alternatives or a waitlist. Document your request date.

In-Home Support Services (IHSS) and Family Caregivers

  • Some HCBS options allow you to direct your own care and, in certain situations, pay a family member to provide personal care (rules vary by waiver and provider).
  • Learn: See waiver pages and ask your case manager about IHSS and “consumer-directed” options via HCBS Waivers – HCPF

Tip: If one agency says “no,” ask your case manager for other agencies that do IHSS or consumer-directed care in your county.

Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)

  • What it is: A full-service program for people 55+ who meet a nursing facility level of care and can live safely in the community. Combines medical care, therapy, adult day, transportation, medications, and coordinated support.
  • Why it matters: One team coordinates your care, often reducing hospital trips.
  • Learn: PACE basics (Medicare.gov)

Colorado-specific PACE centers serve different regions. Ask your doctor or call a nearby PACE center to see if you’re in a service area. You can also ask your AAA or county human services.

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

  • What it is: Rides to covered medical appointments for Health First Colorado members. May include mileage reimbursement, public transit, paratransit, or approved ride providers.
  • Learn and request: Colorado NEMT (HCPF)

Tip: Schedule as early as possible; provide your Medicaid ID, appointment address/time, and any mobility needs (wheelchair, escort).

Behavioral Health and Substance Use Support

Dental Care

  • Adult Medicaid Dental: Health First Colorado covers medically necessary adult dental services up to program limits.
  • Colorado Dental Health Care Program for Low-Income Seniors (state-funded): Provides dental treatment for income-eligible seniors through local grantees.

Hearing, Vision, and Assistive Technology

Table 1: Health and Long-Term Care Programs (Where to Apply)

Program Who It Helps What It Covers Where to Apply/Info
Health First Colorado (Medicaid) Low- to moderate-income seniors and people with disabilities Doctor/hospital care, prescriptions, some dental, NEMT, and HCBS Apply for Medicaid
HCBS Waivers (EBD and others) Seniors needing help with daily activities or nursing-level care In-home help, homemaker, respite, assisted living support, case management HCBS Waivers overview
Medicare Savings Programs Medicare beneficiaries with limited income/resources Help paying Part A/B premiums and cost-sharing MSPs in Colorado
Extra Help (Part D) People with limited income/resources on Medicare Lowers drug plan costs Apply at SSA
PACE 55+ meeting nursing facility level of care Coordinated medical, adult day, meds, rides, home care PACE basics
NEMT (Medicaid rides) Medicaid members Rides to covered medical care Colorado NEMT

Cash, Food, and Tax Relief

Social Security Disability and Income

  • SSDI: For people who worked and paid Social Security taxes and can’t work due to disability. May convert to retirement benefits at full retirement age.
  • SSI: Needs-based cash assistance for people with low income/resources who are older (65+) or have a qualifying disability.

Tip: If you get SSI, you may automatically qualify for Medicaid—confirm with your county or the Health First Colorado member line.

Colorado Old Age Pension (OAP)

  • What it is: State cash assistance for low-income adults age 60+ who do not receive enough income to meet basic needs.
  • Where to apply: Through your county human services office or online via Colorado’s benefits portal.

Note: OAP rules differ from SSI. If you’re already on SSI, ask if OAP supplements apply in your county.

Aid to the Needy Disabled (AND) and Aid to the Blind (AB)

  • What they are: State programs providing short-term cash assistance for adults with a disability determination (AND) or blindness (AB). Often used while waiting on an SSI decision. Typically for under age 60, but listed here because some readers care for a disabled spouse under 60 or need a bridge to SSI/SSDI.
  • Info and apply: Colorado AND/AB (CDHS)

SNAP (Food Assistance) and Senior Nutrition

  • SNAP in Colorado: Monthly benefits to buy groceries. Seniors can qualify even with low monthly benefits—don’t self-deny; apply and let the state calculate.
  • Everyday Eats (CSFP): Monthly box of nutritious food for income-eligible older adults (USDA program administered in Colorado).
  • Senior meals (congregate and home-delivered): Funded by the Older Americans Act and local partners.

Property Tax, Rent, and Utility Relief

Tip: These programs have strict deadlines and paperwork. Call your county assessor’s office early each year to confirm local forms and due dates.

Energy and Utility Help

  • LEAP (Low-Income Energy Assistance Program): Helps pay winter heating bills. Applications usually open November through April.
  • Energy Outreach Colorado: Year-round utility help and emergency furnace repair through local partners.
  • Weatherization Assistance Program: Free home energy upgrades (insulation, sealing, efficient appliances) for income-eligible households.

Reality check:

  • Expect busy phone lines in winter and around tax time. Apply early and keep copies of bills and ID.

Table 2: Cash, Food, and Tax Relief (At a Glance)

Program Who It Helps What You Get Where to Apply/Info
SSI/SSDI (SSA) Older adults with limited income (SSI) or work history + disability (SSDI) Monthly cash benefit; SSI can connect to Medicaid SSA benefits
Old Age Pension (OAP) Low-income adults age 60+ State cash assistance OAP info (CDHS)
SNAP Low- to moderate-income households Monthly food benefits on EBT card SNAP info • Apply at PEAK
Everyday Eats (CSFP) Income-eligible older adults Monthly food box CSFP info (CDHS)
PTC Rebate Low-income seniors/people with disabilities who paid property tax/rent/heat Annual cash rebate PTC Rebate (DOR)
Homestead/Disabled Vet Exemptions Homeowners meeting age or disability rules Reduced property tax DOLA property tax programs
LEAP & Energy Outreach Households needing help with energy bills Heating help, shutoff prevention, repairs LEAP • Energy Outreach

Housing and Accessibility

Affordable Rental and Voucher Programs

Reality check:

  • Expect long waits in metro areas. Check smaller nearby towns too. Keep checking PHA websites for waitlist openings and set calendar reminders.

Home Modifications and Accessibility

Eviction and Foreclosure Help

Table 3: Housing and Accessibility Options

Need Program/Resource What It Does Where to Start
Low-cost rent Section 8 Voucher/Public Housing Helps pay rent or provides income-based units HUD PHA directory (CO)
Finding apartments Colorado Housing Connects Search help, landlord issues, referrals Colorado Housing Connects
Home safety changes Medicaid HCBS (EBD etc.) May fund ramps, grab bars, bath changes HCBS waivers (HCPF)
Mortgage/rent trouble HUD Counseling & Legal Aid Avoid eviction/foreclosure, rights info HUD counselors • Colorado Legal Services

Transportation and Mobility

Tip: For paratransit, apply early and complete all functional ability questions. Bring mobility devices to your eligibility assessment if requested.

Table 4: Transportation Options

Program Area Who It Helps How to Use
RTD Access-a-Ride Denver Metro Riders who meet ADA paratransit criteria Apply and ride info
City Paratransit (varies) Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Greeley, Grand Junction, others ADA-eligible riders City transit sites: Mountain Metro • Transfort • GET • GVT
Bustang/Outrider Statewide Discounted fares for seniors/disabled Bustang • Outrider
NEMT (Medicaid) Statewide Medicaid members Colorado NEMT
Disabled Parking Placard Statewide Eligible drivers/passengers Colorado DMV – Disability Parking

Legal Rights, Advocacy, and Protection

Reality check:

  • Ombudsmen cannot provide legal representation but can resolve many care issues.
  • If someone is pressuring you to sign documents or give money, contact the AG’s Consumer Protection unit or APS.

Inclusive Resources and Special Populations

LGBTQ+ Older Adults

Veteran Seniors

Tip: Bring your DD-214 and medical records to your County VSO appointment.

Tribal-Specific Resources

Colorado has two federally recognized tribes:

Urban Indian support:

  • Denver Indian Health and Family Services (primary care, behavioral health, elders program): DIHFS

Indian Health Service and tribal health programs can work alongside Medicare/Medicaid. Ask your tribal health program’s patient benefits coordinator for help coordinating care.

Rural Seniors and Families

  • Transportation: Check Bustang Outrider and local senior ride programs through your Area Agency on Aging.
  • Telehealth: Medicare and Medicaid cover telehealth for many services; ask your clinic about phone or video visits.
  • Prescriptions: Ask your plan or pharmacist about mail-order delivery and 90-day refills.
  • Home-delivered meals and wellness checks: Request through your AAA’s nutrition program.

Table 5: Key Contacts (Statewide)

Need Best Starting Point Link
Medicaid, HCBS, NEMT Health First Colorado (HCPF) Member info and apply
Medicare counseling SHIP (free, unbiased) Find Colorado SHIP via locator
Food assistance Colorado SNAP SNAP info
Energy help LEAP and Energy Outreach Colorado LEAP • Energy Outreach
Housing search and help Colorado Housing Connects coloradohousingconnects.org
Legal aid Colorado Legal Services coloradolegalservices.org
Ombudsman Long-Term Care Ombudsman CDHS Ombudsman
Consumer scams Colorado Attorney General Consumer Protection
Adult abuse/neglect Colorado Adult Protective Services Report or find county APS
Veterans Colorado Division of Veterans Affairs vets.colorado.gov

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

1) Medicaid (Health First Colorado) and Medicare Savings Programs

  • Online: Use the Health First Colorado application.
  • By phone/in person: Contact your county human services office (find via your county’s website) or ask your Area Agency on Aging for application help: Find Colorado AAAs
  • Documents to gather: Government ID, Social Security number, proof of Colorado residency, proof of income (award letters, pay stubs), bank statements, and medical bills.

Tip: If you get SSI, tell your worker—SSI recipients often qualify automatically for Medicaid.

2) SNAP (Food Assistance)

  • Apply online: Colorado PEAK
  • Or apply through your county human services office.
  • Seniors often qualify for simplified reporting. Ask about medical expense deductions; they can increase your SNAP amount.

3) Old Age Pension (OAP)

  • Apply online (PEAK) or through your county office.

4) HCBS Waivers and In-Home Help

  • Ask for an LTSS functional assessment through your local Single Entry Point (SEP) agency.
  • Bring a list of daily tasks you need help with (bathing, dressing, meals, mobility), medical diagnoses, and your preferred providers. Ask about IHSS or consumer-directed options.

5) PACE (if you meet nursing facility level of care and prefer one-stop care)

  • Call a PACE center in your area or ask your AAA to refer you.

6) Property Tax/Rent/Heat Rebate (PTC) and Property Tax Exemptions

7) Energy Help

8) Transportation

  • Medicaid rides: Colorado NEMT
  • ADA paratransit (metro/city systems): See your local transit site (links above).
  • Intercity: Bustang and Outrider

Reality Checks, Tips, and Common Roadblocks

  • Paperwork takes time. Keep a folder with copies of your ID, Social Security card, benefit award letters, lease, and utility bills. It will save you weeks.
  • Missed mail causes benefit closures. Update your address with your county, Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid whenever you move.
  • Medicaid estate recovery exists. If you receive Medicaid LTSS (like nursing home or waiver services), the state may seek repayment from your estate after death. Learn more here: Medicaid Estate Recovery – HCPF
  • Provider shortages happen. If you’re on a waiver but can’t find an attendant or agency, ask your case manager about consumer-directed options or other agencies. Document your calls.
  • Avoid scams. Government agencies will not ask you to pay fees in gift cards or wire transfers. When in doubt, call the number on the agency’s official website.

Resources by Region (Find Local Help Fast)

Rather than list dozens of addresses, use these official directories to find the exact office that serves your county or city:

If you’re not sure where to start, call 211 or contact your AAA. They can point you to the correct office for your county.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What’s the difference between Old Age Pension (OAP) and SSI in Colorado?
A: Both provide cash help, but SSI is a federal program with federal rules, and OAP is a Colorado program for adults 60+. Some people who don’t qualify for SSI may qualify for OAP. Apply through your county or PEAK. Sources: SSI – SSA and OAP – CDHS

Q2: Can my family member get paid to help me at home?
A: Possibly. Some Medicaid HCBS options in Colorado include consumer-directed care or IHSS, which may allow certain family members to be paid caregivers. Rules vary by waiver and provider. Ask your case manager. Source: HCBS Waivers – HCPF

Q3: What if I need assisted living but can’t afford it?
A: The EBD waiver can help pay for support in an “Alternative Care Facility” (assisted living) if you meet medical and financial criteria. You’ll still likely pay a share of cost based on income. Ask your SEP case manager about EBD options. Source: Colorado LTSS – HCPF

Q4: Will Medicaid take my house?
A: Medicaid has an estate recovery program that may seek repayment for certain long-term services after you pass away, usually from your estate (like property). There are exceptions and protections. Speak with your case manager and review state policy. Source: Medicaid Estate Recovery – HCPF

Q5: How do I get rides to appointments if I can’t use the bus?
A: If you’re on Medicaid, request Non-Emergency Medical Transportation. If you’re not on Medicaid, apply for ADA paratransit (like RTD Access-a-Ride) or ask your AAA about senior ride programs. Sources: Colorado NEMT • RTD Access-a-Ride • Find your AAA

Q6: Where can I get help comparing Medicare plans?
A: Contact the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for free, unbiased counseling. Source: SHIP locator

Q7: I’m a veteran. Should I apply for VA Aid and Attendance or Medicaid?
A: Many veterans use both. Aid and Attendance can help with personal care needs, while Medicaid can cover LTSS and medical costs. Talk with your County VSO and your Medicaid case manager to coordinate benefits. Source: VA Aid and Attendance • HCPF

Q8: Do seniors in Colorado get dental coverage?
A: Medicaid covers adult dental services up to program limits. There’s also a state Senior Dental Program for low-income older adults through local grantees. Ask your AAA or see HCPF’s site. Sources: Health First Colorado • HCPF (search “Senior Dental Program”)

Q9: I live in a very rural area. Any tips?
A: Use Outrider regional buses when available, ask your clinic about telehealth, and request mail-order pharmacy. Your AAA can arrange home-delivered meals and sometimes volunteer driver programs. Sources: Outrider • Find your AAA

Q10: How do I report poor care in a nursing home or assisted living?
A: Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman for advocacy and complaint resolution. For abuse/neglect, contact Adult Protective Services. Sources: Ombudsman – CDHS • APS – CDHS

Resources (Official and Trusted)

Disclaimer

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

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: August 2025
  • 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.

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About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.