Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Rhode Island

Last updated: August 2025

This practical guide brings together the most useful benefits, programs, and credible contacts for older adults with disabilities in Rhode Island. It focuses on state-specific help, what it covers, how to apply, and where to verify details.


Quick Help Box (Emergency & Immediate Support)

Use these contacts first when safety, health, food, or housing is urgent.

Need What to do Official source
Medical or safety emergency Call 911 Local emergency services
Mental health crisis or suicide concerns Call or text 988 (24/7) 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Veterans in crisis Call 988, then press 1 Veterans Crisis Line (VA)
Elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation (65+) Call 401-462-0555 (Office of Healthy Aging) RI Elder Protective Services
Statewide information & referrals Dial 211 (24/7) United Way 211 Rhode Island
Aging & disability help line (benefits navigation) Call The POINT: 401-462-4444 The POINT at RI Office of Healthy Aging
Apply for SNAP, Medicaid, cash-like benefits Call DHS: 1-855-697-4347 (1-855-MY-RIDHS) RI Department of Human Services (DHS)
Non-emergency police/welfare checks Contact your local police department City/town website
Poisoning Call 1-800-222-1222 Poison Help

Reality check: If lines are busy, try early morning or just before closing. Document names, dates, and confirmation numbers. If you can’t reach an office, call 211 or The POINT to help you navigate.


How to Use This Guide

  • Start with the benefit you need most (food, healthcare, housing, transportation).
  • Use the tables to compare programs, then follow the “Apply” links.
  • Keep ID, proof of Rhode Island address, income, and medical/disability documents handy.
  • When in doubt, call The POINT (401-462-4444) for warm, live help.

Health Care, Disability Benefits, and Long-Term Care

Social Security Disability and SSI

  • SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) pays monthly benefits if you worked and paid Social Security taxes and now can’t work due to a disability expected to last at least a year or result in death. Apply online or by phone.
    Source: Social Security Administration – SSDI
  • SSI (Supplemental Security Income) helps people 65+ or with disabilities who have limited income/resources. Many older Rhode Islanders with very low income qualify for SSI, which can also connect you to Medicaid automatically.
    Source: SSI – SSA
  • How to apply and get local help:

Reality check: Decisions can take months. If denied, appeal by the deadline. Many approvals happen on appeal. Keep your medical records organized and updated.

Medicare help (SHIP, Extra Help, and Medicare Savings Programs)

Tip: Ask SHIP to check both Extra Help and MSP together; qualifying for one may open doors to the other.

Medicaid and Long-Term Services & Supports (LTSS) in Rhode Island

Rhode Island’s Medicaid (Medical Assistance) covers health care, and if you meet medical and financial rules, it can pay for long-term care at home, in assisted living (in limited cases), or in nursing homes.

  • Overview for consumers:
    Source: RI EOHHS – Long-Term Services & Supports
  • Apply for Medicaid LTSS through DHS. There’s a clinical level-of-care review and a financial review. You’ll need proof of income, assets, and medical need.
    Source: RI EOHHS – Apply for LTSS
  • Self-directed care (Personal Choice): Lets you choose and manage your own caregivers (including some family members in certain cases) within an approved budget.
    Source: RI EOHHS – Personal Choice
  • Adult day health, home health, and in-home supports are available if you qualify under Medicaid or state programs coordinated by the Office of Healthy Aging.
    Sources: RI Office of Healthy Aging – Home & Community Care, RI EOHHS LTSS services
  • PACE-RI (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly): If you’re 55+ and meet a nursing home level of care, PACE coordinates all Medicare/Medicaid services, adult day care, home care, therapies, and transportation in one program.
    Source: PACE-RI

Reality check: LTSS applications take time, especially if you need a disability determination or have assets to review. Submit a complete application and keep copies. Ask about retroactive coverage if you have recent medical bills.

Compare Key Health and LTSS Options

Program What it covers Who it helps Where to apply/learn more
SSDI Monthly cash benefit; Medicare after a waiting period People with work history now unable to work SSA – SSDI
SSI Monthly cash assistance; often automatic Medicaid 65+ or disabled with low income/resources SSA – SSI
SHIP Free Medicare plan/drug counseling All Medicare beneficiaries OHA – SHIP
Extra Help Lowers Part D drug costs Low-income Medicare enrollees SSA – Extra Help
MSP May pay Medicare Part B premium Low-income Medicare enrollees RI DHS – MSP
Medicaid LTSS Home care, adult day, nursing home People meeting level-of-care and financial rules RI EOHHS – LTSS
PACE-RI All-in-one care + rides 55+ needing nursing-home level care PACE-RI

Food and Nutrition in Rhode Island

  • SNAP (Food Stamps): Monthly funds on an EBT card for groceries. Seniors can often use simplified applications and medical deductions to qualify. Apply online, by mail, or in person.
    Source: RI DHS – SNAP
  • Meals on Wheels of Rhode Island: Delivers nutritious meals statewide and offers check-ins that can help with safety and social connection.
    Source: Meals on Wheels of RI
  • Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal coupons for locally grown fruits and vegetables for eligible older adults; coupons are accepted at markets across RI.
    Source: USDA FNS – SFMNP Rhode Island contact
  • Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Monthly shelf-stable food boxes for income-eligible adults 60+. In RI, administered by the Rhode Island Community Food Bank with distribution sites statewide.
    Source: RI Community Food Bank – Senior Food Boxes (CSFP)

Tips:

  • Report high medical costs to SNAP; it can raise your benefit if you’re 60+ or disabled.
  • Ask Meals on Wheels about waitlists and frozen meal options if delivery days are limited.

Money, Taxes, and Utilities

  • Social Security and SSI: See the SSDI/SSI section above for cash benefits.
    Source: SSA
  • Rhode Island Property Tax Relief Credit (Form RI-1040H): Refundable state income tax credit for eligible homeowners and renters based on property tax or rent paid.
    Source: RI Division of Taxation – Property Tax Relief Credit
  • Local property tax exemptions for seniors and disabled homeowners: Many cities/towns reduce assessed value or offer tax freezes for eligible residents. Rules vary by municipality.
    Source: Contact your local tax assessor (find contacts via your city/town website)
  • Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Helps with heating bills and weatherization. Administered through local community action agencies.
    Source: RI DHS – LIHEAP
  • Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Lowers bills by improving home energy efficiency (insulation, air sealing, safety checks).
    Source: RI Office of Energy Resources – Weatherization Assistance
  • Good Neighbor Energy Fund: Offers one-time heating assistance to eligible households not qualifying for government programs.
    Source: RI Good Neighbor Energy Fund
  • Lifeline phone/internet discount: Monthly discount on phone or broadband for low-income households.
    Source: FCC – Lifeline

Note on ACP: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program stopped accepting new applications in early 2024 due to funding; check the FCC page for status updates.
Source: FCC – ACP

Quick Look: Money and Utility Help

Benefit What it does Where to apply/learn more
RI-1040H Property Tax Relief Refundable credit for eligible homeowners/renters RI Division of Taxation – RI‑1040H
Local property tax exemptions Lower tax bills via senior/disabled exemptions City/Town Assessor (local website)
LIHEAP Help with heating bills RI DHS – LIHEAP
WAP Weatherization to reduce energy costs RI OER – WAP
Good Neighbor Energy Fund One-time utility help if not LIHEAP-eligible RI Good Neighbor Energy Fund
Lifeline Discount on phone/internet FCC – Lifeline

Reality check: Utility funds can run out in winter. Apply early in the season and ask your utility about budget billing and medical protection plans.


Housing, Accessibility, and Staying at Home

  • RIHousing: State housing finance agency for affordable housing info, rental help links, and housing search tools. Many Section 8 vouchers are managed by local housing authorities; RIHousing provides centralized info and waitlist links when open.
    Source: RIHousing
  • Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher/Public Housing: Apply through your local Public Housing Authority (PHA). Waiting lists open and close; check the HUD directory for RI contacts.
    Source: HUD – RI PHA Contact List
  • Fair housing and disability rights in housing: If you face discrimination or need a reasonable accommodation/modification (like a ramp), you can file a complaint.
    Source: RI Commission for Human Rights, HUD Fair Housing
  • Livable Home Modification Grant: State grant to help pay for accessibility modifications (e.g., ramps, stair lifts, bathroom changes). Homeowners and renters may be eligible; awards and caps apply.
    Source: RI Governor’s Commission on Disabilities – Livable Home Modification Grants
  • Weatherization & safety: See WAP above; also ask your utility about energy audits and medical protection.
    Source: RI OER – WAP
  • Home repair and accessibility help: Ocean State Center for Independent Living (OSCIL) offers information, durable medical equipment reuse, and home access assistance programs for people with disabilities.
    Source: OSCIL

Housing & Home Modification Snapshot

Program What it covers Who to contact
RIHousing info and links Affordable rental programs, first-time homebuyer programs, links to waitlists when open RIHousing
Section 8 vouchers & public housing Rent subsidies or public units for low-income households HUD – RI PHAs
Livable Home Modification Grant Helps fund ramps, bathroom/doorway modifications RI GCD – Livable Home Grants
Fair housing rights Help with discrimination and accommodations RI Commission for Human Rights
Weatherization Assistance Insulation, air sealing, safety checks RI OER – WAP
Independent living supports DME reuse, home access info OSCIL

Reality check: Housing vouchers have long waits. Apply to multiple PHAs if allowed. Keep your contact info updated so you don’t miss a notice.


Transportation: Getting Around Rhode Island

  • RIPTA Reduced/No Fare Bus Pass: Seniors and people with disabilities can ride at reduced or no cost depending on income and eligibility. You apply for a photo ID pass with proof of age/disability and, for no-fare, income documentation.
    Source: RIPTA – Reduced Fare Program
  • RIPTA Flex Service: On-demand, zone-based service in areas with limited fixed-route options (useful for rural parts of the state).
    Source: RIPTA – Flex Service
  • RIPTA RIde (ADA Paratransit): Door-to-door rides for people whose disability prevents them from using fixed-route buses. You must apply and be found eligible.
    Source: RIPTA – RIde Paratransit
  • Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for Medicaid: Rides to covered medical appointments if you are on Medicaid and meet criteria.
    Source: RI EOHHS – Transportation to Medical Appointments

Tip: Schedule medical rides as early as possible. If you have recurring appointments, ask about standing orders.

Transportation Options at a Glance

Service Who qualifies How it helps Where to learn more
RIPTA Reduced/No Fare Pass 65+ or disabled; no-fare is income-based Lower-cost or free bus rides RIPTA – Reduced Fare
RIPTA Flex Riders in designated zones Flexible, call-ahead local rides RIPTA – Flex
ADA Paratransit (RIde) Disability prevents use of fixed routes Door-to-door rides RIPTA – RIde
Medicaid NEMT Medicaid members with eligible needs Rides to covered medical care EOHHS – Transportation

Assistive Technology, Communication, and Safety

  • ATEL (Adaptive Telephone Equipment Loan): Provides amplified phones, captioned phones, and other devices on long-term loan for RI residents with hearing, speech, or neuromuscular disabilities.
    Source: RI Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing – ATEL
  • Assistive Technology Access Partnership (ATAP)/TechACCESS of RI: Try-before-you-buy device demonstrations, short-term device loans, and guidance on funding for assistive tech.
    Sources: RI ATAP, TechACCESS of RI
  • Medical equipment reuse: OSCIL and other nonprofits offer donated/cleaned devices like walkers or shower chairs.
    Source: OSCIL

Tip: Ask your clinician for a Letter of Medical Necessity; it can help with funding through Medicaid, Medicare, or the Livable Home Grant.


Caregiver Support and Protection

Reality check: Respite hours are limited and may have waitlists. Ask about all caregiver options (CareBreaks, Medicaid LTSS, PACE-RI) to piece together coverage.


Inclusive Resources for Diverse Communities

LGBTQ+ Seniors

  • SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline offers peer support and help finding LGBTQ+-friendly services.
    Source: SAGE USA
  • Thundermist Health Center provides LGBTQ+ affirming primary and behavioral health care, including gender-affirming services.
    Source: Thundermist – LGBTQ+ Health
  • You can also ask SHIP for plan help that respects your needs, and call The POINT for inclusive local referrals.
    Sources: OHA – SHIP, The POINT

Tip: If you face discrimination, you can file a complaint.
Source: RI Commission for Human Rights

Veteran Seniors

Tip: Bring your DD-214 and medical records to appointments. Consider a Veteran Service Officer (VSO) for claims help.
Source: Find a VSO (VA)

Tribal Members (Narragansett Indian Tribe)

Tip: If eligible, you may also use state programs listed in this guide. Keep your tribal ID handy when applying.

Rural Seniors and Families (Ex. South County, Western RI)

  • Transportation: Check RIPTA Flex zones for areas with few bus routes.
    Source: RIPTA – Flex Service
  • Telehealth: Medicare and many RI providers continue offering telehealth; ask your doctor’s office for phone/video visit options.
    Sources: Medicare telehealth overview
  • Food access: Use 211 to find mobile food pantries and home-delivered options if travel is hard.
    Source: 211 RI
  • Benefits help by phone: The POINT (401-462-4444) and DHS (1-855-697-4347) can handle many steps remotely.

Resources by Region (Statewide and Local Gateways)

  • Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging (statewide AAA): Information, benefits counseling, caregiver support, protective services, and The POINT helpline.
    Source: OHA
  • United Way 211 Rhode Island: 24/7 directory of services by town/county.
    Source: 211 RI
  • Community Action Agencies (for LIHEAP, WAP, case management, local services): Find your local agency via the state association.
    Source: RI Community Action Association
  • Senior centers: Contact your town hall or search 211 for your local senior center, which can help with forms, meals, and social programs.
    Source: 211 RI – Senior Centers
  • Housing Authorities: For vouchers and public housing inquiries.
    Source: HUD – RI PHA list

Step-by-Step: If You’re Not Sure Where to Start

  1. Call The POINT at 401-462-4444 to review your needs (food, health, housing, transportation).
    Source: The POINT
  2. Apply for the quickest supports: SNAP (food), LIHEAP (heating), and a RIPTA Reduced Fare Pass if you ride a lot.
    Sources: SNAP – RI DHS, LIHEAP – RI DHS, RIPTA Reduced Fare
  3. If you need in-home help, call OHA about Home & Community Care, and check if you qualify for Medicaid LTSS or PACE-RI.
    Sources: OHA – Home & Community Care, EOHHS – LTSS, PACE-RI
  4. For drug costs, contact SHIP to review Part D plans and screen for Extra Help and MSP.
    Source: OHA – SHIP
  5. If your home needs changes (ramps, bathroom), look at the Livable Home Modification Grant and weatherization.
    Sources: RI GCD – Livable Home Grants, RI OER – WAP
  6. Keep a file with copies of applications, letters, and case numbers.

Frequently Asked Questions (Rhode Island–Specific)

Q: I’m 68, on a fixed income, and my rent keeps going up. Where do I apply for help?
A: Apply to local housing authorities for Section 8 vouchers and public housing when lists are open (check the HUD RI PHA directory). Also, call 211 to find affordable buildings with current openings. If you’re a renter who pays utilities, ask about LIHEAP to lower bills (RI DHS – LIHEAP).

Q: How do I get a free or reduced bus pass in Rhode Island?
A: Apply for a RIPTA Reduced Fare or No Fare Bus Pass with proof of age (65+) or disability, and income documents if applying for no-fare. Start here: RIPTA – Reduced Fare Program.

Q: Can Medicaid pay for someone to help me at home?
A: Yes, if you qualify for Medicaid LTSS. There’s a medical level-of-care review and a financial review. Ask about self-directed services (Personal Choice) to hire your own caregiver. Start here: RI EOHHS – LTSS and Personal Choice.

Q: What is PACE-RI and who qualifies?
A: It’s an all-in-one care program for people 55+ who meet a nursing home level of care. It coordinates your doctors, medications, adult day health, home care, and transportation. Learn more: PACE-RI.

Q: I need a ramp. Is there a Rhode Island grant for home modifications?
A: Yes, the Livable Home Modification Grant can help pay for accessibility changes. It has eligibility rules and funding limits. See: RI GCD – Livable Home Grants. Also check OSCIL for home access resources: OSCIL.

Q: I’m on Medicare and struggling with drug costs. Any help?
A: Ask SHIP to review your plan and check eligibility for Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs. These can significantly lower drug and premium costs. Start here: OHA – SHIP, SSA – Extra Help, RI DHS – MSP.

Q: Where do I report suspected elder abuse in Rhode Island?
A: For immediate danger, call 911. Otherwise, call Elder Protective Services at 401-462-0555. Source: OHA – Protective Services.

Q: Is there help paying property taxes or rent?
A: The RI-1040H Property Tax Relief Credit can help eligible homeowners and renters. Details: RI Division of Taxation – Property Tax Relief Credit. Check your town for senior or disability exemptions too.

Q: How do I get to my medical appointments if I can’t drive?
A: If you’re on Medicaid, ask about Non-Emergency Medical Transportation: EOHHS – Transportation. If you’re not on Medicaid, check RIPTA – RIde Paratransit and RIPTA – Flex.

Q: Who can help me fill out applications if I don’t have a computer?
A: Call The POINT at 401-462-4444 or 211. Visit your senior center or library for in-person help and access to printers or fax machines. Sources: The POINT, 211 RI.


Common Roadblocks and How to Handle Them

  • Long waitlists: Apply to multiple housing authorities where allowed and keep your contact info updated. Check with 211 for properties with current openings.
  • Documentation: Gather ID, Social Security card, proof of address, income statements, bank statements, and medical records. Ask caseworkers for a checklist.
  • Denials: Appeal on time. For Medicaid and SNAP, appeal rights are on the notice. For SSDI/SSI, file reconsideration within the deadline through SSA. Ask legal aid if you need help: Rhode Island Legal Services.
  • Transportation gaps: Use RIPTA Flex if you’re in a zone with limited service, and ask providers about telehealth where appropriate.

Handy Contacts (All Official)


Program Details Table (Extended Reference)

Category Program What it offers How to apply/verify
Food SNAP Monthly EBT for groceries RI DHS – SNAP
Food Meals on Wheels Home-delivered meals/check-ins Meals on Wheels of RI
Food SFMNP Seasonal farmers’ market coupons USDA – SFMNP RI
Food CSFP Monthly food boxes for 60+ RI Food Bank – CSFP
Health SHIP Free Medicare counseling OHA – SHIP
Health Extra Help Lower Part D drug costs SSA – Extra Help
Health MSP Helps pay Medicare premiums RI DHS – MSP
LTSS Medicaid LTSS In-home, adult day, nursing home EOHHS – LTSS
LTSS PACE-RI All-in-one care + transport PACE-RI
Housing Section 8/Public Housing Rental help/public units HUD – RI PHAs
Housing Livable Home Grant Accessibility modifications RI GCD – Livable Home
Utilities LIHEAP Heating bill help RI DHS – LIHEAP
Utilities WAP Weatherization upgrades RI OER – WAP
Transport RIPTA Reduced/No Fare Reduced or free bus rides RIPTA – Reduced Fare
Transport ADA Paratransit (RIde) Door-to-door ADA rides RIPTA – RIde
Transport Medicaid NEMT Medical appointment rides EOHHS – Transportation
AT ATEL Adaptive phone equipment loan RICDHH – ATEL
AT ATAP/TechACCESS Device demos/loans and funding RI ATAP, TechACCESS
Legal Ombudsman LTC resident advocacy Alliance BLTC
Legal Disability Rights RI Disability legal advocacy DRRI

Real-World Example Scenarios

  • Example 1: A 74-year-old in Woonsocket with diabetes and mobility limits. Actions: Apply for SNAP (DHS – SNAP); call Meals on Wheels (rimeals.org); request a RIPTA Reduced Fare Pass (RIPTA Reduced Fare); call OHA about Home & Community Care and check Medicaid LTSS if care needs are frequent (OHA Home & Community Care).
  • Example 2: A 67-year-old renter in Newport needing a bathroom grab bar and ramp. Actions: Review Livable Home Modification Grant (RI GCD); contact OSCIL for home access resources (oscil.org); check WAP for energy efficiency upgrades (RI OER – WAP).
  • Example 3: A 72-year-old veteran in Cranston with heart failure and high drug costs. Actions: Call SHIP for plan review and MSP/Extra Help screening (OHA – SHIP); contact RI Office of Veterans Services for Aid & Attendance (vets.ri.gov); use Medicaid NEMT if enrolled (EOHHS – Transportation).

Application Tips That Save Time

  • Use one folder for each agency (DHS, EOHHS, SSA). Put copies of everything inside.
  • Write your case number on every page you submit.
  • Ask for a receipt when you drop off documents or a confirmation number if you upload or fax.
  • If your health worsens, update your case. It can change your eligibility for services.
  • If English is not your first language or you need ASL/other accommodations, ask for free interpreter services.

Disclaimer

Programs, eligibility, and application steps can change. Always verify the latest details with the official agencies linked in this guide. This guide is informational and not legal 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.

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.