Grants for Seniors in Arkansas

Last Updated on April 18, 2024 by Rachel

Key Senior Statistics in Arkansas (60 and over)

Senior Population: 738,823 (24.3%)

Male: 46.1%

Female: 53.9%

Median Age: 70

Disability: 37%

With Social Security Income: 78%

With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 8%

Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 14%

Data Source:

Data is taken from American Community Survey 2022. Please check our detailed page about Senior Statistics in Arkansas for more data and information.

Help for Seniors in Arkansas – 32 Assistance Programs

Arkansas was ranked the third best place in the country for retired people. This state offers various healthcare services for elderly residents. Apart from affordable living conditions, the weather is generally comfortable with its hot springs. Since Arkansas is highly preferable for senior residents, there is a vast range of programs geared towards their wellbeing. These services are offered by the state, federal government, or local communities.

State Resources for Seniors

The Arkansas Department of Human Services through its Division of Aging, Adult, & Behavioral Health Services provides several resources for seniors in the state. Information on programs like Medicaid, assisted living, free meals provision, cost saving measures on health insurance, free ombudsman services, etc. are provided by the Department. All of these are geared towards helping seniors have a comfortable life. While some programs may seem to offer low financial assistance, it is important to note that Arkansas has one of the lowest costs of living in the United States and seemingly small amounts can go a long way. The Division of Aging, Adult, & Behavioral Health Services page can be found at https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/learn-about-programs/programs-for-adults-seniors/. On this page, seniors can find links to several useful resources for assistance. Apart from the services listed above, the Division of Aging, Adult, & Behavioral Health Services provides adult protective services for abuse prevention. This is particularly important as some seniors may be suffering physical abuse from their caregivers and require urgent attention and rescue.

Financial Assistance

Seniors over the age of 65 may be eligible to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These are monthly payments paid to help ease the costs of living. SSI benefits can be claimed even if the seniors are receiving retirement benefits. More information on SSI can be found at https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/ssi/.

Seniors who are still able to work can register for the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). This is a part-time program for residents over the age of 55. Participants are given training and assigned tasks to complete. They are then paid at the highest of either the local, state or federal minimum wage. The skills gotten may also help the seniors obtain more permanent employment. Seniors can visit https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/aging-adult-behavioral-health-services/find-home-community-based-services-for-adults-seniors/senior-community-service-employment-program/ for more information.

In some cases, seniors can turn to charities like the Salvation Army for financial assistance. Details are available at https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/love-the-elderly/.

Employment Assistance

Arkansas Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) is funded by the Arkansas Department of Human Services to find a part-time job for people who are at the age of 55 or older and are in financial hardship. Eligible candidates will participate in different employment assignments provided by the community groups or state agencies. Accepted people will make the minimum wage or higher which is determined by the state authorities. This employment opportunity can be permanent in the long run and participants may improve their work skills. You must keep in mind that your household income must be at or under 125 percent of the current federal poverty guidelines. To calculate your poverty level, utilize the Federal Poverty Level Calculator. For additional questions, visit https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/aging-adult-behavioral-health-services/find-home-community-based-services-for-adults-seniors/senior-community-service-employment-program/ or call 501 320 6454.

Housing and Rent Assistance

Arkansas Section 8 Housing Voucher Program was formed and has been financed by the federal government to assist low and moderate-income people in Arkansas. Seniors who are in financial need and cannot afford their homes can apply for this housing assistance benefit. Eligible candidates choose an affordable and secure house or apartment which is confirmed under Section 8. The program evaluates the applications based on the family size and total yearly gross income. To learn more, please visit https://www.hud.gov/states/arkansas/renting.

Arkansas Making Home Affordable is financed by the federal government to help homeowners who are in financial hardship. It offers cash support to make sure that residents remain in their own homes. Seniors who have their own homes but are not economically stable are prioritized by this program. Qualified people also may have home loans with lower interest rates. Main goal is to reduce homelessness in Arkansas. For more information, follow the link https://www.hud.gov/sites/documents/February2014MHAReport.pdf.

The Emergency Solutions Grant Program helps provide Seniors who are homeless or at risk of homelessness with shelter. This help is provided indirectly by funding organizations that provide emergency shelter or rapid rehousing services. Rapid rehousing helps seniors find and pay for affordable housing. For more information, visit https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/covid-19/dhs-response-to-covid-19/updates-for-clients/rental-assistance/#esgrant.

Home Repair Grants

The Section 504 Home Repair program gives loans to help with repair, modification and renovation of homes. Seniors over the age of 62 can apply for a grant under this program, the funds can be used to make accessibility modifications to the home, remove health hazards, etc. Grants of up to $10,000 can be gotten for home repairs. Additional details on this program are available at https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/ar.

Healthcare Assistance

Arkansas Senior Health Insurance Information Program (AR SHIIP) is a federal government program that aims to bring together Medicare receivers, their loved ones, and qualified caregivers across the state. Anyone who is at the age of 65 or older can benefit from this health assistance. It offers face-to-face treatment or can guide people over the phone for free. Besides, low-income people who cannot afford their drug expenses can apply for cash support. It may also assist with other solutions for you to save your money. To learn more, go to https://insurance.arkansas.gov/pages/consumer-services/senior-health/ or make a call at 800 282 9134/ 501 371 2600.

Arkansas Administration on Aging (AoA) fights against healthcare fraud and scam strategies that some senior residents can come across. This government establishment collaborates with Empowering Seniors to Prevent Healthcare Fraud. The fundamental function of these services is to ensure that the elderly understand a good enough healthcare system and the methods of swindlers in this sector so that they can protect themselves. Residents can be informed and prepared towards the fraud tactics, and save their money. Once they learn all about healthcare fraud, the program encourages them to report these sorts of issues to the state and federal government officers. To find out more about this program, visit https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/Arkansas_State_Plan_on_Aging_2020-2022.pdf.

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation is a special program for Medicaid receivers in Arkansas. Sometimes it might be difficult to go to the doctor’s appointment alone. This program assists transportation support for eligible residents regardless of local or long-distance appointments. The link to their official website is https://afmc.org/health-care-professionals/arkansas-medicaid-providers/net/ or dial 1 888 987 1200.

ARChoices in Homecare is a local community healthcare service that was created for senior people. Seniors who are suffering from a disease and are not able to work can consider applying for this benefit. It provides medical support and cash assistance depending on your special case. It aims to make sure that eligible candidates can live in their own homes rather than nursing facilities. Explore more opportunities through the following link https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/aging-adult-behavioral-health-services/find-home-community-based-services-for-adults-seniors/archoices-in-homecare/.

Dental Grants and Benefits

Aging is typically the root cause of dental health issues in seniors. The majority of seniors avoid visiting the dentist. This should not be the case, given that funds has been set out specifically for dental treatment. Check out Dental Grants in Arkansas to learn how senior individuals might receive these services.

Seniors who live in Arkansas can get low-cost or free dental care through the Donated Dental Services (DDS) Program. This is a network of volunteer dentists who provide comprehensive dental care to eligible patients. Seniors must be over the age of 65 and have low-income to qualify for this assistance. More information on DDS in Arkansas can be found at https://dentallifeline.org/arkansas/.

Delta Dental Smiles is an insurance scheme that can help seniors get low-cost dental care. It is provided under the Medicaid program and allows registered seniors get significant subsidies when they visit dentists within the Delta Dental Smiles network. The plan covers several dental services including office visits, fillings, crowns, etc. More details on the Delta Dental Smiles program are available at https://www.deltadentalsmiles.com/pages/coverage/.

Additional resources for free and subsidized dental care can be gotten from https://healthprofessions.uams.edu/clinics/dental-hygiene-clinic/charitable-dental-and-medical-clinics-resource-directory/.

Charities and Organizations

Seniors in Arkansas can get assistance from various charities in the state. Some charities provide specialized services, while others provide a variety of services to seniors.

CareLink is a nonprofit agency that provides seniors with various forms of help to support their lives. In-Home Assistance is offered to homebound seniors who may need help with various activities around their homes like pet care, house chores, cooking, etc. Background checks are conducted for volunteers to ensure the safety of the seniors. Meals and transportation assistance are also provided by CareLink. The organization can be reached by contacting them on their website https://www.carelink.org/.

The Salvation Army is another charity that renders assistance to seniors in need. Seniors who are homeless can get housing assistance and even a room to sleep. Meals are also provided, along with recreational activities to ensure that a healthy lifestyle is maintained. Adult day care services are available for elderly citizens who are unable to care for themselves and therefore require special attention. Several other services are provided to make living easier for seniors in the state. Seniors can reach out to the Salvation Army at https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/arkansas-and-oklahoma/contact-us.

Food Assistance

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps is a federal initiative developed to provide food for low-income persons. The Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) administers the program in the state and issues benefits to eligible seniors. The benefits come in the form of funds on a special debit card known as the Electronic Benefits Card (EBT). The funds on this card can be used to purchase certain approved food items from stores across the state. More details on the SNAP in Arkansas can be gotten from https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/county-operations/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-snap/.

Meals on Wheels is another program designed to help seniors get nutritious food for healthy living. Under this program, meals are prepared and delivered to the homes of seniors who are unable to leave their homes. Meals on Wheels is for seniors aged 60 and above and meals are approved by a dietician to ensure the best nutritional value is given. More details on the Meals on Wheels program are available at https://agingarkansas.org/services/meals-on-wheels/.

Other nutritional and food assistance resources for seniors in Arkansas can be found at https://agingarkansas.org/top-4-nutrition-resources-for-seniors-in-arkansas/.

Transportation Assistance

Non-emergency medical transportation is available for seniors who live in Arkansas. This is provided by the CareLink charity and should be booked at least 48 hours in advance. CareLink also provides transportation to get seniors to and from socialization events and senior centers on dedicated days. Apart from this, seniors may get a ride to go shopping, get groceries, visit the pharmacy, etc. Transportation arrangements allow for group or personal rides for the seniors. It is important to note that emergency medical transportation is not part of the services rendered. In case of emergencies, an ambulance should be called. Details are available at https://www.carelink.org/services/transportation/.

Utility Bills Assistance

Seniors in Arkansas can take advantage of Entergy’s Power to Care utility fund. This is an emergency program designed to provide urgent assistance to help pay for energy bills.

The Money Follows the Person (MFP) assistance is for seniors who desire to transition from care facilities to personal housing. Through this program, aid is provided to cover initial housing costs like rent and utility bills.

Arkansas Energy Office is a local non-governmental organization that presents information about utility assistance. Individuals who are not able to pay their utility bills and need financial assistance can consult this network to find out the nearest church or charity help. Some notable energy assistance programs are Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Energy Codes, Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), Arkansas Energy Performance Contracting, Arkansas Home Energy Score, Energy Efficiency Arkansas, Arkansas Energy Technology Loan Program (AETL), Residential Energy Efficiency Loan Loss Reserve Program, and Arkansas Clean Cities. To find out the best program for you, read more at https://www.adeq.state.ar.us/energy/ or contact the free hotline 888 233 0326.

Lifeline and Link-Up Programs were led by the Universal Service Fund for low and moderate-income individuals. The Lifeline and Link-Up Programs presents various discounts and wireless telephone service and equipment for eligible residents. While Lifeline offers a $10 discount each month, the Link Up Program assists one-time cash support that is up to $30. Seniors, who already receive assistance from certain government benefits which are Medicaid, Food Stamps, Supplemental Security Income, Federal Public Housing Assistance, LIHEAP, or Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, are also eligible for these utility programs. Further information can be accessed by clicking on the following link https://arkansasag.gov/consumer-protection/technology/phone/lifeline-and-link-up-programs/ or by phone at 888 641 8722.

Seniors in Arkansas can get help with paying for their water and wastewater bills through the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). The program is set up to help pay outstanding water bills to prevent utility shutoff. Assistance is also provided for reconnection after shutoff. More information can be found at https://www.adeq.state.ar.us/energy/assistance/lihwap.aspx.

Grants for Senior Veterans

Veterans in Arkansas can visit the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs (ADVA) to get various state benefits. Arkansas veterans who are disabled are exempt from state property and homestead taxes. This tax exemption frees up resources which can be used to attend various financial needs are required. Hunting and fishing licenses are also offered at discounted prices to help support veterans. Veterans who are still able to work can also get employment assistance and On-the-Job Training (OJT) to build skills. Additional information can be gotten from https://myarmybenefits.us.army.mil/Benefit-Library/State/Territory-Benefits/Arkansas.

The state also offers affordable housing to accommodate veterans. The housing facilities features nursing care, beautician services, medical director services, cable TV, transportation, etc. Seniors can visit https://www.veterans.arkansas.gov/veteran-homes-1 for details on the housing program.

The Arkansas Freedom Fund (AFF) provides referrals to resource centers which veterans can visit for assistance. The resource centers are not directly affiliated to the AFF but referrals are provided and veterans who come through the AFF program can get assistance with reasonable timing. Veterans can visit AFF website at https://www.arkansasfreedomfund.org/veterans-resources.html for these resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What financial assistance programs are available for seniors in Arkansas? Arkansas seniors may access financial assistance through programs like the Arkansas Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), Medicaid, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for help with living expenses, healthcare, and nutrition.

2. How can seniors apply for Medicaid in Arkansas? Seniors can apply for Medicaid in Arkansas online through the Access Arkansas website or by visiting a local Department of Human Services (DHS) office. Documentation required typically includes proof of age, income, residency, and assets.

3. What are the eligibility criteria for SNAP in Arkansas? Eligibility for SNAP is based on household income, assets, and the number of people living in the household. Seniors may qualify for higher deductions and benefits. Applications can be submitted online or at local DHS offices.

4. Is there assistance for utility bills for seniors in Arkansas? The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides financial assistance for heating and cooling bills. Seniors can apply through their local Community Action Agency.

5. How do seniors in Arkansas get help with prescription drugs? The Arkansas Senior Rx Program offers assistance to seniors struggling with the costs of prescription medications. Eligibility may depend on income, insurance status, and other factors.

6. Are there property tax relief programs for seniors in Arkansas? The Homestead and Property Tax Credit for seniors offers up to a $375 credit on property taxes for the primary residence of eligible seniors. Applicants should contact their local county assessor’s office for more information.

7. Can seniors receive legal assistance in Arkansas? Legal Aid of Arkansas provides free legal services to low-income seniors on issues like healthcare, housing, consumer rights, and elder abuse. Seniors can contact them directly for assistance.

8. What nutritional programs are available for seniors in Arkansas? The Arkansas Department of Human Services operates the Senior Nutrition Program, offering meals in senior centers and home-delivered meals for eligible seniors. Applications for these programs can be made through local Area Agencies on Aging.

9. How can seniors access transportation services in Arkansas? The Arkansas Transit Association provides information on transportation services for seniors, including local shuttle services and reduced-fare programs for public transit.

10. What in-home care services are available for seniors in Arkansas? The Choices in Living Resource Center offers information on in-home care and other services to help seniors maintain independence. Services may include personal care, homemaker services, and emergency response systems.