Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Tennessee

Last updated: August 2025

This guide is written in plain language, with direct links to official Tennessee and federal sources. It covers urgent help first, then walks through health care, long-term care, housing, utilities, food, transportation, legal support, and more. —

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Quick Help Box (start here)

If you are in danger or need fast help, use these contacts. You don’t have to remember everything—start with one number.

Reality check: If phone lines are busy, leave a voicemail and try again. For TennCare, you can also apply through your local Department of Human Services office; for aging and disability services, the ADRC can route you to the right local agency.

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Who this guide is for

• Tennesseans age 60+ living with a disability, and adults 65+ regardless of disability.
• Family caregivers helping an older adult with disabilities.
• People comparing state and federal programs in Tennessee.

This guide focuses on Tennessee-specific programs and how to actually use them, with links to official pages.

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How to use this guide

• First, check the Quick Help Box for urgent needs.
• Then scroll to the section you need: health and long-term care, money and food, housing and utilities, transportation, assistive tech, legal protection, or special populations.
• Save or print pages you need. When in doubt, call the ADRC at 1-866-836-6678 to get connected locally. ADRC (TN Commission on Aging and Disability)

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Health Care and Long-Term Care in Tennessee

TennCare (Tennessee Medicaid)

TennCare is Tennessee’s Medicaid program. It covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and long-term services and supports (LTSS) for eligible adults. Seniors and adults with disabilities who meet income/resource and medical need rules may qualify.

• Learn about TennCare and eligibility: TennCare Members & Applicants
• Apply online or by phone: How to Apply for TennCare

Tip: Even if your income seems too high, you may still qualify for long-term care through special rules. Don’t self-screen out—apply or talk to your Area Agency on Aging & Disability (AAAD) through the ADRC.

CHOICES in Long-Term Services & Supports (LTSS)

CHOICES helps qualifying older adults and adults with disabilities get care at home, in the community, or in a nursing home. It can pay for things like personal care, homemaker services, home-delivered meals, minor home modifications, adult day services, respite, and more if you meet medical criteria and financial rules.

• Program overview: CHOICES in Long-Term Services & Supports (TennCare)
• How to start: Call your AAAD via the ADRC (1-866-836-6678) or apply for TennCare. The AAAD can help with screening and the CHOICES application.

Reality check: CHOICES can have assessments and paperwork. There may also be waiting lists for some in-home services depending on your situation. Keep notes and ask your AAAD counselor to follow up.

Employment and Community First (ECF) CHOICES

If you are an adult with an intellectual or developmental disability, ECF CHOICES provides services to help you live and work in the community. It’s different from CHOICES, with its own eligibility.

• Learn more: ECF CHOICES (TennCare) (see ECF CHOICES section)

Medicare and Help with Medicare Costs

• Medicare basics and enrollment: Medicare.gov
• Medicare Savings Programs (helps pay Medicare Part B premiums and sometimes deductibles/coinsurance if income is limited): Apply through TennCare. Medicare Savings Programs (TennCare)
• Extra Help/Low-Income Subsidy for prescriptions: Apply with Social Security. Extra Help (SSA)

For unbiased Medicare advice, call Tennessee SHIP. They can review plans, check drug costs, and see if you qualify for savings:

• Tennessee SHIP

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

If you are on TennCare, you may get rides to covered medical appointments. Transportation is arranged through your TennCare health plan.

• Contact your plan (BlueCare Tennessee, Amerigroup Tennessee, or UnitedHealthcare Community Plan). Plan contacts: TennCare Health Plans

Tip: Schedule rides as early as possible (often at least 48–72 hours in advance). Ask about mileage reimbursement if a friend or family member can drive you.

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

PACE offers coordinated medical care and long-term services for people 55+ who meet nursing-home level of care and can live safely in the community. Availability in Tennessee is limited to specific service areas.

• Learn about PACE: PACE overview (Medicare/CMS)
• Call the ADRC (1-866-836-6678) to check if PACE is available in your county.

Caregiver Support and Respite

If you help care for an older adult, you may qualify for caregiver training, respite hours, and support groups through the Tennessee Family Caregiver Support Program.

• Learn and find your local program: Family Caregiver Support (TN Commission on Aging and Disability)

Health and LTSS: What each program does

The table below compares common health and long-term care options for seniors with disabilities in Tennessee.

Sources:

• TennCare
• TN Commission on Aging and Disability (TCAD) programs
• Medicare.gov
• SSA Extra Help

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Money, Food, and Everyday Bills

Social Security disability and SSI

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For people with a qualifying work history who now have a disability. SSDI basics (SSA)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For people with very limited income/resources who are aged 65+ or disabled. SSI basics (SSA)

Tip: If you think you were wrongly denied, ask about appeals and talk with Legal Aid (see Legal section) or a benefits counselor.

Optional State Supplement (state cash assistance in certain facilities)

Tennessee provides a state supplement to SSI for eligible aged, blind, and disabled residents who live in specific licensed residential settings (for example, certain assisted living or community homes). It helps pay for the cost of care.

• Learn more and find local Adult Services: TN DHS – Adult Services
• You can also call the ADRC (1-866-836-6678) to ask about the Optional State Supplement and which facilities qualify.

Reality check: This supplement doesn’t go to people living independently at home. It’s tied to licensed settings and has specific rules.

SNAP (Food Stamps)

SNAP helps with grocery costs. Many older adults qualify, even if they own a home or car. Medical expenses may increase your benefit if you are 60+ or have a disability.

• Apply online: TDHS SNAP Application
• Program info: SNAP in Tennessee

Senior meals and home-delivered meals

Local AAADs coordinate congregate meals at senior centers and home-delivered meals (often called “Meals on Wheels”) for people who qualify.

• Find your local program through the ADRC: ADRC (TCAD)

Note: Some areas have waiting lists for home-delivered meals. Ask about temporary options, food pantries, and SNAP while you wait.

Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

CSFP provides a monthly package of nutritious foods to eligible adults age 60+. It’s federally funded by USDA and administered in Tennessee by approved local agencies.

• About CSFP (USDA program overview): USDA CSFP
• To enroll in Tennessee, contact your local AAAD via the ADRC (1-866-836-6678) to find the nearest CSFP site.

Utility bills and weatherization

• LIHEAP: Helps pay heating and cooling bills for eligible households. Administered by Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) through local agencies. LIHEAP in Tennessee (THDA)
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Improves energy efficiency (insulation, air sealing, safety checks). Weatherization Assistance (THDA)

Tip: Apply early, bring proof of income, and ask your local agency about any waitlists.

Banking and savings for people with disabilities: ABLE TN

If your disability began before age 26, you may open an ABLE account to save for qualified disability expenses without affecting SSI/Medicaid resource limits (within federal rules). Tennessee’s ABLE program is run by the State Treasury.

• Learn and enroll: ABLE TN (TN Treasury)

Note: Federal law is scheduled to raise the disability-onset age for ABLE eligibility in 2026. Always verify current rules when you apply.

Money, Food, and Bills — quick reference

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Housing, Home Repairs, and Property Taxes

Finding affordable housing

• Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and public housing are managed by local housing agencies. Start with your local Public Housing Agency (PHA).
• To search for affordable rentals statewide: TNHousingSearch.org (supported in Tennessee)

For help locating and applying, contact your AAAD via the ADRC (1-866-836-6678). Housing waits can be long; apply to multiple PHAs if possible.

Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly (THDA)

Grants for urgent home repairs (like unsafe wiring, plumbing leaks, roofs) for homeowners age 60+, with income limits. Administered by THDA through local partners.

• Program details and local contacts: Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly (THDA)

Tip: Funds are limited each year. Apply as soon as applications open in your area.

USDA Rural Home Repair (Section 504)

For very low-income homeowners in eligible rural areas:

• Grants up to a federal cap for homeowners age 62+ to remove health/safety hazards.
• Low-interest loans for repairs and improvements.
• Learn more and apply in Tennessee: USDA Rural Development – TN Home Repair Program

Property Tax Relief and Tax Freeze

Tennessee offers:

• Property Tax Relief: A state-paid rebate for qualifying elderly or disabled homeowners and disabled veteran homeowners on a portion of property taxes.
• Property Tax Freeze: Freezes property tax amounts for qualifying elderly homeowners (must apply locally; income limit applies).
• Tax Relief info: TN Comptroller – Tax Relief
• Tax Freeze info: TN Comptroller – Tax Freeze

Apply through your county trustee’s office. Income limits and deadlines are updated annually on the Comptroller’s site.

Housing and utilities — quick reference

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Transportation

MyRide TN (volunteer rides)

Door-through-door rides for older adults (varies by county). Small rider fee may apply.

• Learn more and check availability: MyRide TN (TCAD)

Public transit and paratransit

Tennessee Department of Transportation funds local transit systems. Most urban systems offer ADA paratransit for riders with disabilities who cannot use fixed routes.

• Find local transit providers: TDOT Public Transit
• ADA paratransit rules: Federal Transit Administration ADA Overview

Non-emergency medical transport (TennCare)

If enrolled in TennCare, contact your health plan for rides to covered medical appointments. TennCare Health Plans

Disabled parking placards

Apply through the Tennessee Department of Revenue for permanent or temporary disabled placards/plates.

• How to apply and forms: TN Dept. of Revenue – Disabled Plates and Placards

Transportation — quick reference

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Assistive Technology, Communication, and Accessibility

Tennessee Technology Access Program (TTAP)

TTAP helps people find and try assistive technology devices, offers device demonstrations, short-term loans, and may connect you to device reuse and funding sources.

• Learn more: TTAP (TN DHS)

Tennessee Telecommunications Devices Access Program (TDAP)

If you have a hearing, speech, or other disability that makes using a standard phone difficult, TDAP can provide specialized equipment at no cost to eligible residents.

• Program info and application: TDAP (TN Public Utility Commission)
• Relay services for calls: Relay Tennessee

Services for Older Individuals who are Blind

Training and devices to help people age 55+ with significant vision loss keep living independently.

• Program details: Older Individuals who are Blind (TN DHS/VR)

Internet and phone discounts

• Lifeline discount (ongoing): Monthly discount on phone or internet for eligible low-income households. Lifeline Support (USAC)
• Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended due to lack of funding (May 2024). Check FCC updates: FCC – ACP

Reality check: Since ACP ended, wait times for low-cost plans are longer and options are fewer. Ask your phone/internet provider about senior or low-income plans and use Lifeline if you qualify.

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Legal, Safety, and Advocacy

Adult Protective Services (APS)

Report suspected abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of adults 18+ (including in nursing homes). If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 first.

• Report online or by phone: Report Adult Abuse (TN DHS) | 1-888-277-8366

Long-Term Care Ombudsman

Free help for residents of nursing homes, assisted living, and similar facilities. They resolve complaints, explain rights, and work with facilities.

• Contact your local Ombudsman: TN Long-Term Care Ombudsman (TCAD)

Public Guardianship for the Elderly

If a person age 60+ cannot manage their affairs and has no one to serve as conservator, TCAD’s Public Guardianship program may help.

• Learn more: Public Guardianship for the Elderly (TCAD)

Free civil legal help

• Statewide hotline and resources: HELP4TN (TALS) | 1-844-HELP4TN (1-844-435-7486)
• Local Legal Aid programs: Find links at HELP4TN or ask the ADRC.

Advance directives

Tennessee provides forms to help you state your health care wishes and name a health care agent.

• Forms and information: Advance Directives (TN Dept. of Health)

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Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Three Common Benefits

1) CHOICES (long-term services and supports)

1. Call the ADRC at 1-866-836-6678 and ask for a CHOICES screening, or contact TennCare.
2. Complete the medical and functional assessment. Be specific about daily needs.
3. Submit proof of income/resources as requested.
4. Choose a TennCare health plan if approved. Your plan will coordinate services.
5. Keep all letters and note any appeal deadlines.

• Program info: TennCare LTSS – CHOICES

2) SNAP (Food Stamps)

1. Gather ID, household income, and expense proof (especially medical expenses for 60+/disabled).
2. Apply online: TDHS SNAP Application
3. Complete the interview (by phone or in person).
4. Get your EBT card if approved.

• Program info: SNAP in Tennessee

3) LIHEAP (utility assistance)

1. Find your local agency through THDA’s LIHEAP page: THDA LIHEAP
2. Gather ID, recent utility bill, income proof.
3. Submit the application (some agencies allow mail/online).
4. Ask about Weatherization while you apply.

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Inclusive Support: Specific Groups

Veteran Seniors

• Tennessee Department of Veterans Services (TDVS) helps you apply for VA disability, pensions, Aid & Attendance, and state benefits. Connect with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO).
  TN Department of Veterans Services
• VA Aid & Attendance can increase your pension if you need help with daily activities or are housebound.
  VA Aid & Attendance and Housebound
• Tennessee State Veterans’ Homes provide skilled nursing care to eligible veterans and spouses in several locations.
  State Veterans’ Homes (TDVS)

Tip: Bring your DD214 and medical records to your VSO appointment.

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• Get unbiased help applying for Medicare, TennCare, and housing through Tennessee SHIP and the ADRC.
  Tennessee SHIP | ADRC
• If you face discrimination in health or long-term care, you can contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
  TN Ombudsman Program
• National elder support: The SAGE National LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline offers peer support and referrals.
  SAGE Elder Hotline (national, nonprofit)

Reality check: Some rural providers may have less training in LGBTQ+ elder needs. Ask facilities about non-discrimination policies and rooming practices before you choose care.

American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) Seniors

• IHS Nashville Area serves AI/AN people in Tennessee. Eligible elders may access care through IHS or Purchased/Referred Care if criteria are met.
  Indian Health Service – Nashville Area | IHS Eligibility
• You can still use Medicare and TennCare with IHS. Ask an IHS patient benefits coordinator or contact the ADRC for help coordinating benefits.

Rural Seniors

• Transportation and caregiver shortages are common in rural counties. Start with the ADRC (1-866-836-6678) and ask about:
  • Local transit and volunteer driver programs (MyRide TN)
  • Home-delivered meals and CSFP pickup sites
  • Telehealth options through your Medicare/TennCare plans
• For home repairs and safety, look at USDA Rural Development grants/loans (62+) and THDA’s Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly.
  USDA RD – TN | THDA ERP

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Resources by Region (find your local Area Agency on Aging & Disability)

Tennessee’s AAADs are your “front door” for in-home services, caregiver help, meal programs, and CHOICES screening. There are multiple AAADs covering all 95 counties.

• The fastest route: Call the statewide ADRC at 1-866-836-6678 and they will connect you to your county’s AAAD.
  ADRC – Area Agencies on Aging & Disability Directory

Use this quick map of regions and how to reach them:

Tip: When you call, have your Medicare or TennCare card handy, income estimates (if comfortable sharing), and a short list of your daily care needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: I’m on Medicare, not TennCare. Can I still get help with long-term care at home?
A: Possibly. Medicare does not cover long-term personal care, but Tennessee’s CHOICES (through TennCare) may help if you meet medical and financial criteria. Call the ADRC at 1-866-836-6678 to get screened. TennCare LTSS – CHOICES

Q: How do I get a ramp or bathroom grab bars?
A: If you’re in CHOICES, minor home modifications may be covered. Outside CHOICES, check THDA’s Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly, USDA Rural Home Repair (62+), and local non-profits. Start with the ADRC for local options.

• THDA Emergency Repair Program
• USDA RD – TN Repair Program

Q: What if I can’t afford my Medicare Part B premium?
A: The Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI) may pay your premium and sometimes other costs if your income/resources are limited. Apply through TennCare.

• TennCare – Members & Applicants

Q: I live in a nursing home and have a complaint. Who do I call?
A: The Long-Term Care Ombudsman can help with care complaints, billing concerns, and resident rights.

• TN Ombudsman Program

Q: I can’t get to the doctor—are rides available?
A: If you have TennCare, call your health plan for Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). If you don’t, ask your local AAAD about MyRide TN and other transportation options.

• TennCare Health Plans
• TCAD Transportation Programs

Q: Does Tennessee have property tax breaks for seniors?
A: Yes. Tax Relief (state reimbursement) and Tax Freeze (locks your tax amount) are available if you meet age, income, and other requirements. Apply at your county trustee’s office.

• TN Comptroller – Tax Relief
• TN Comptroller – Tax Freeze

Q: Who helps with Medicare plan choices and drug costs?
A: Tennessee’s SHIP provides free, unbiased counseling. They can check Extra Help eligibility and compare plans.

• Tennessee SHIP

Q: I’m being pressured to give money to a caregiver. Is that financial abuse?
A: It may be. Call Adult Protective Services to report. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

• Report Adult Abuse (TN DHS) | 1-888-277-8366

Q: I’m a veteran—where do I start with benefits?
A: Contact the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services to meet with a VSO who can file claims for free.

• TN Department of Veterans Services

Q: Is there still federal help for internet bills?
A: The Affordable Connectivity Program has ended due to lack of funding. You may still qualify for the Lifeline discount.

• Lifeline Support (USAC) | FCC – ACP status

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Reality Checks, Tips, and Watchouts

• Waitlists happen: In-home services and home-delivered meals can have waitlists. Ask about interim help (SNAP, CSFP, local food banks).
• Keep paperwork: Save copies of all applications, decisions, and appeal deadlines. Write down who you spoke to and when.
• Don’t self-deny: Apply even if you’re unsure you qualify—staff can often find a program that fits.
• Beware of fees: SHIP counseling and VSOs are free. Be cautious of companies charging for services you can get at no cost through the state or non-profits.
• Re-check rules yearly: Income limits and program details change. Verify on the official site or with your AAAD.

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One-Page Program Snapshot (print-friendly table)

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Full Resource Links (official and well-established sources)

Health and long-term care:

• TennCare (apply, eligibility): TennCare Members & Applicants
• Long-Term Services & Supports, CHOICES, ECF CHOICES: TennCare LTSS
• Medicare info: Medicare.gov
• SHIP counseling: Tennessee SHIP

Food and cash:

• SNAP: TDHS SNAP | Apply
• SSI/SSDI: Social Security Benefits
• State supplement (licensed settings): TN DHS Adult Services
• CSFP overview: USDA CSFP

Housing and utilities:

• THDA – LIHEAP: LIHEAP
• THDA – Weatherization: WAP
• THDA – Emergency Repair Program for the Elderly: ERP
• Affordable rentals: TNHousingSearch.org
• USDA Rural Home Repair (62+): USDA RD – TN
• Property Tax Relief/Freeze: TN Comptroller – Consumer Resources

Transportation and accessibility:

• TCAD Transportation Programs (incl. MyRide): Transportation
• TDOT Transit Providers: Public Transit
• Disabled placards: TN Dept. of Revenue
• TTAP (Assistive Technology): TTAP
• TDAP (Telecom equipment): TDAP
• Relay Tennessee: RelayTN
• Lifeline Phone/Internet Discount: Lifeline Support
• FCC status for ACP: FCC – ACP

Safety, legal, and advocacy:

• Adult Protective Services: Report Adult Abuse | 1-888-277-8366
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman: TN Ombudsman
• Public Guardianship: TCAD Guardianship
• HELP4TN (TALS): HELP4TN.org | 1-844-HELP4TN (1-844-435-7486)
• Advance Directives: TN Dept. of Health – Advance Directives

Veterans and tribal:

• TN Department of Veterans Services: TDVS
• VA Aid & Attendance: VA A&A
• State Veterans’ Homes: TDVS Homes
• Indian Health Service (Nashville Area): IHS – Nashville | IHS Eligibility

General navigation:

• Tennessee Commission on Aging & Disability (TCAD): TCAD Home
• Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ADRC): ADRC | 1-866-836-6678
• Tennessee Emergency Management Agency: TEMA
• FEMA: DisasterAssistance.gov

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Disclaimer

Program names, eligibility rules, income/resource limits, benefit amounts, and phone numbers can change. Always confirm details with the official agency or program website linked in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, medical, or financial 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: 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.