Grants for Seniors in Louisiana

Last Updated on April 16, 2025 by Rachel

Key Senior Statistics in Louisiana (65 and over)

Senior Population: 794,591 (17.4%)

Male: 44.5%

Female: 55.5%

Median Age: 72.9

Disability: 38.7%

With Social Security Income: 85.6%

With Food Stamp/SNAP Benefits: 12.8%

Below 100% of the Poverty Level: 14.2%

Data Source:

Data is taken from American Community Survey 2023. Please check our detailed page about Senior Statistics of Louisiana for more data and information.

Help for Seniors in Louisiana – 29 Assistance Programs

Louisiana is quite an affordable state considering the low cost of living and tax discounts. Specifically, elder people can have a broad range of opportunities in terms of cultural events, vibrant social activities, and a secure environment. Some senior citizens may be in need of assistance from the government or charitable organizations to live better in the State of Louisiana. Hence, there are several programs and benefits for them that are led by the federal government, state authorities, and community establishments.

State Resources for Seniors

The state offers a wealth of resources to help connect seniors to relevant help that they may need. The Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs hosts materials that keep seniors up to date of efforts and programs available to alleviate the challenges of senior living. These can be accessed at http://goea.louisiana.gov/.

Furthermore, the Department of Health’s Aging and Adult Services provide more materials that are useful for seniors. From here, seniors can connect to community-based service centers for their needs, providers of supportive housing, healthcare providers, charity organizations, etc. All of these resources, alongside others are available at https://ldh.la.gov/subhome/12.

Financial Assistance

The Social Security Administration runs a special program to provide financial support for seniors. This program is called Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and helps elderly residents from the age of 65 and older. Financial assistance is provided in the form of monthly payments. These payments can be used to settle bills and purchase items as required. To be eligible for SSI benefits, seniors must meet certain income and asset value requirements. The benefit amount varies and is decided on a case-by-case basis, taking into account things like pensions and other benefits. Seniors can find more information on Supplemental Security Income at https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/ssi/.

Housing and Rent Assistance

Single Family Housing Repair Loans and Grants in Louisiana is also recognized as the Section 505 Home Repair Program among local people. This program is run by the State of Louisiana for low-income individuals who are landlords. Seniors who think they need some assistance to redesign their homes based on their health or physical condition can apply for this service. This program also offers financial assistance for household items according to the economic condition of the applicants. This loan ranges from $7,500 to $20,000. It also provides grants based on the case.

Eligibility Requirements

• You must be a landlord and living in the house.
• You must not be getting cash assistance from any institution.
• Your total household income must be under 50 percent of federal poverty.
• You must be 62 years of age or above.

Use the Federal Poverty Level Calculator to determine your poverty level percentage.

For more information and apply, please visit https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/la or by phone at 318 343 4467.

Louisiana Housing Corporation is one of the largest and most efficient local community organizations throughout the state. Even though this establishment assists low and moderate-income families with various benefits, its main aim is to make sure that every citizen is able to live in a decent and secure home. Some of their programs are as follows

• The Home MRB Program was designed to help people who wish to be a homeowner but do not have enough money to buy their home. This program offers advances for eligible people with low-interest rates which are under market level. Only first-time homebuyers and low-income people are qualified.
• The Mortgage Revenue Bond Assisted Program was created to help people who need financial assistance to afford their home expenses. Residents of Louisiana who are facing financial difficulties can contact this program.
• Delta 100 Program considers that every citizen should be able to have their own nice and low-cost home in Louisiana. Qualified applicants who intend to buy their first home can have 100 percent cash assistance for their home. Eligible candidates are obligated to finish a Homebuyer Education Course that is offered by the Louisiana Housing Corporation. Seniors who think to buy their first home and do not have any money to purchase a house may appeal to this program.
• The Louisiana Balance of State Continuum of Care (LA BOSCOC) aims to reduce homelessness in this state. Homeless people or persons who are at risk of becoming homeless are urged to apply to these programs. It offers financial assistance to make sure that eligible people can keep their houses. However, homeless residents can be settled to available shelters or housing assistance.

Explore more opportunities through the following link https://www.lhc.la.gov/ or make a phone call at 225 763 8700.

Louisiana Permanent Supportive Housing Program is funded by the Louisiana Office of Aging and Adult Services. Right after Hurricanes Rita and Catrina, many people lost their homes or their homes were damaged. Since then, there have been several programs particularly to help those people who lost their homes because of these natural disasters. This state program has more than 3,000 permanent and temporary housing units for low-income residents that were affected by these hurricanes. To access the application form, click on https://ldh.la.gov/assets/docs/OAAS/PSH/PSH-Application.pdf or dial 1 844 698 9075.

The Louisiana Housing Corporation administers the Housing Preservation Grant (HPG) to help low-income seniors repair or rehabilitate their homes. Assistance is provided to residents of Ascension, East Baton Rouge, Iberville, Livingston, and West Baton Rouge parishes. The exact scope of work for each home is defined by the Construction and Compliance Monitoring team of the housing corporation and contains details on repairs to be carried out. The HPG covers things like plumbing, roof repairs, electrical wiring, accessibility modifications, etc. Seniors who receive the grant are bonded not to sell the home within 2 year period. Seniors can find more information on the Housing Preservation Grant at https://www.lhc.la.gov/housing-preservation-grant.

The Section 504 Home Repair program, otherwise known as the Single Family Housing Repair Loans and Grants program is a federal program that provides financial assistance to eligible low-income residents for home repairs. Loans of up to $40,000 are available to cover things like accessibility modifications, structural repairs, and other modifications to remove health hazards. Seniors over the age of 62 may apply for grants of up to $10,000 to make repairs to their homes. For applicants who can repay part but not all of the costs, a combination of a loan and grant may be offered. For more information on the Section 504 Home Repair Program in Louisiana, visit https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/la.

Read Home Repair Grants For Seniors for further information on additional resources to assist with home modifications and repairs.

Healthcare Assistance

The Medicaid Program is designed to provide healthcare coverage for low-income residents, including seniors. Medicaid in Louisiana is administered by the Department of Health and covers a wide range of medical procedures and services, leaving little or no cost for the senior to pay. Some services covered by Medicaid include dental care, medical transportation, inpatient care, emergency room services, etc. Seniors can apply for Medicaid online by visiting the portal at https://sspweb.lameds.ldh.la.gov/selfservice/ or an application form can be downloaded from http://www.ldh.la.gov/index.cfm/page/1384 and printed for manual filling.

The Louisiana SenioRx Program links eligible seniors over the age of 60 with resources to help pay for their medication. Seniors who require prescription medication but cannot afford it can get referrals from the Louisiana SenioRx to relevant agencies that can help them get access. Direct connections may also be established with the drug manufacture to obtain discounts. The program serves low-income and uninsured citizens in the state, giving them a chance for proper healthcare. For more information, visit https://www.capitalaaa.org/programs/seniorx/.

There are several clinics in the state that offer free treatment, or charge fees on a sliding scale basis. Sliding scale charges use the income of the patient to determine how much should be charged. These clinics can be searched using a simple term like “Free clinics near me“.

The Long Term-Personal Care Services Program (LT-PCSP) was created and has been led by the Louisiana Department of Health for elder residents. Seniors who are 65 years old or above and in need of personal care at their homes are eligible for this service. Accepted persons can stay in a nursing unit for a longer period. They can receive help with their basic hygiene needs, bladder or bowel issues, eating and meal preparation, accompanying during the medical meetings, shopping, and other daily needs depending on their case. To learn more about its services, please visit https://ldh.la.gov/index.cfm/page/351 or get in touch with 225 342 9500.

Adult Day Health Care (ADHC) is a comprehensive service for older residents who seek medical, social, nursing, or personal care. These healthcare units are managed by profit or non-profit organizations for elders. Senior residents looking for a nursing care facility can contact this program. Find out more information at https://ldh.la.gov/index.cfm/page/2986 or by phone at 225 342 6298.

Help with Dental Care

The Louisiana State University’s School of Dentistry offers dental care to residents of the state. This care is provided by predoctoral dental students under supervision of faculty of the school. Several services are offered, including cleaning, crowns, dentures, braces, root canal treatment, extractions, etc. While the services are not free, they come at a considerably lower cost than other dental clinics. Seniors can visit https://www.lsusd.lsuhsc.edu/patients.html for more information.

The Dental Lifeline Network runs a program called Donated Dental Services. Through this program, seniors over the age of 65 can get comprehensive dental care for free. A wide range of dental procedures are covered; however, emergency services are not available. Free treatment is made possible by a network of dentists who volunteer their time and services to help attend to the vulnerable members of the populace. Often, waiting lists may be encountered for services, but this does not compromise the quality of care received through the program. For more information on DDS in Louisiana, visit https://dentallifeline.org/louisiana/.

The Louisiana Dental Association maintains a directory of clinics and programs in the state that provide dental services to the uninsured and underinsured. This directory is sorted by parish for easy location of the nearest clinic, and can be found at http://www.ladental.org/public-resources/community-clinics.

Oral health is becoming more important every day. Learn how elders can access dental assistance by visiting Dental Grants in Louisiana.

Utility Bills Assistance

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Louisiana is a federally sponsored utility service for low and moderate-income families. Elderly, single mothers, children, and people with disabilities are priority groups for this program. Seniors can get monthly discounts on their utility bills. Residents of Louisiana who are challenging with financial issues are qualified. For further information, go to https://www.hud.gov/states/louisiana/renting/energyprgms or dial 888 454 2001.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides technical assistance for energy efficiency at home. People who are 60 years of age or above are eligible to benefit from this energy assistance. The federal government aims to reach each family who is having difficulties paying their bills in Louisiana. To learn more, click on the following link https://www.lhc.la.gov/weatherization-assistance-program-wap.

Sharing the Warmth is a utility assistance program that was created and has been financed by the local electricity firm Atmos Energy. This service is also subsidized by the local neighbors to help people facing economic hardship in Louisiana. Seniors are one of the priority groups and can have a monthly discount on their bills ranging from $1 to $20. To see more information, please visit https://www.atmosenergy.com/community/sharing-warmth or contact 866 322 8667.

The Power to Care program helps seniors make emergency bill payments. This program is open to Entergy customers and is provided in collaboration with charities like the Salvation Army and the Catholic Charities. Through the program, seniors with low income do not need to worry much about their bills as most of the energy bills get paid by the assisting organizations. More details on the Power to Care program are available at https://www.entergy-louisiana.com/bill-help/, while supporting agencies across the state, along with contact information are listed at https://cdn.entergy-louisiana.com.

The South Western Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) offers grants of up to $200 for residents. Seniors over the age of 62 who have paid at least $75 of their bills within the previous three months can be considered for this grant. In cases of extreme hardship, an exception may be made. While the maximum amount is $200, the actual amount awarded depends on the beneficiary’s circumstances and is decided on a case-to-case basis. More information can be gotten from https://www.dollarenergy.org/need-help/.

The energy providers in Louisiana have deferred payment options to delay the due date of unpaid bills. The payments can then be split over up to 12 months for easier repayments. Information on how this works with each provider can be found on their respective websites.

Food Assistance

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides seniors with monthly benefits to purchase essential food items for good health. The amount of money to be allocated is determined by income level and they are received on a special debit card referred to as the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. This card can be used to purchase food items from various participating grocery stores in the state. Seniors who wish to apply for SNAP can find application resources at http://www.dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/snap-how-to-apply.

The Louisiana Commodity Supplemental Food Program (SCFP) was formed by the State of Louisiana and supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for low-income people who are 60 years of age or older. The mission of the program is to ensure that seniors having financial challenges can receive nutritious and healthy food. Eligible candidates can have monthly food packages that contain various vegetables, fresh fruits, canned meat, a box of breakfast cereal, cheese, and packaged food. SCFP also encourages seniors to enroll in the nutrition education program so that they can be informed about a healthy diet to protect their health. For more information, go to https://ldh.la.gov/index.cfm/page/998 or dial the toll-free line 1 800 522 3333.

The Salvation Army Louisiana offers various programs for low and moderate-income people. It has many offices in Louisiana to help with utility bills, food assistance, and housing services. Seniors who cannot cook at their homes or who cannot afford their meals may get in touch with this organization. To see the opportunities available, go to https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org call 601 969 7560.

Apart from government programs, there are food initiatives sponsored by nonprofits like Catholic Charities and the Salvation Army. Seniors can visit these organizations to get assistance with food.

Transportation Assistance

Residents of Jefferson Parish can get transportation assistance from the Jefferson Council on Aging (JCOA). JCOA provides transportation for seniors to help them get from their home to area centers and back, giving them a chance for community engagement. Buses operate between 8:00am and 4:00pm on weekdays along fixed routes and modified routes. The vehicles are equipped to handle seniors with mobility challenges and drivers are certified to perform basic first aid procedures. More details can be found at https://www.jcoa.net/transportation-services.

Seniors in Baton Rouge can contact the East Baton Rouge Council on Aging (EBRCOA) to get special transportation assistance. Rides are provided for seniors aged 60 and above to help them get to and from senior centers. Applications must be submitted 2 days in advance to secure a transportation slot as services are provided on demand and on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested seniors can obtain more information from https://ebrcoa.org/transportation/.

The various Councils on Aging in the state provide alternative transportation services for elderly residents. The options available include door-to-door services, fixed route scheduled services and ridesharing services. The transportation arrangements ensure that seniors can get to where they need to be with as little financial burden as possible upon them. The links to transportation providers across Louisiana can be found in the brochure at https://www.goea.louisiana.gov/media/frihghpl/transportationnarrative.pdf.

Charities and Organizations

The Catholic Charities is a faith-based nonprofit that offers several programs to care for challenged seniors. Through the Food for Seniors Program, Catholic Charities provides food items for seniors over the age of 60 to help them meet their nutritional needs. The food is distributed across 400 volunteer sites throughout the state. Nutrition information and education is also provided. Catholic Charities also runs the Program of ALL Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). PACE provides seniors with healthcare, transportation, personal care, medication, etc. to help them live in their homes and age in place for as long as possible. Other programs are available, such as a housing program for homeless residents, among others. For more information on the services offered by the Catholic Charities, visit https://www.ccano.org/.

The Salvation Army is another charitable organization that offers a wide range of traditional social services along with emergency assistance for seniors. Salvation Army helps with food, clothing, payment for medical care and medication, rent and utility bills, etc. Shelters are provided to serve as a room over the head of displaced seniors, helping them live in a safe environment. Various other services are available, based on location of residence. For a full overview of services, visit https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/ala-lou-mis/home.

Assistance for Senior Veterans

The Military Family Assistance Fund (MFA) helps veterans and their families by providing financial support when necessary. Veterans can apply for MFA support when undergoing financial hardship and may receive up to $10,000 of financial assistance in a year. MFA is open to veterans who have been honorably discharged and meet the minimum active-duty requirements. Veterans who want to apply can download a form from https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/wp-content/uploads/MFAApplication.pdf or complete their application online at https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit/military-family-assistance-fund/.

Veterans who were permanently or totally disabled during active service may be eligible to receive disability benefits. This is provided through the LA National Guard Death and Disability Benefit program, giving up to $100,000 worth of benefits to qualifying veterans. For more information, visit https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit-category/emergency-assistance/.

Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) is a program that caters for veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Assistance is provided to help locate affordable housing and to make payment for rent and utilities. Financial resources may also be provided to pay for arrears and to assist with the purchase of items to furnish the home. More details on the SSVF in Louisiana can be found at https://www.voascla.org/acadiana.

Veterans can also turn to the Salvation Army for help. Assistance is provided in the form of housing, financial aid for bills, medical care services, help with cost of medication, etc. Community interaction is also provided, helping veterans reintegrate back into society. Other programs offered to assist veterans can be found at https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/ala-lou-mis/home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What financial assistance programs are available for seniors in Louisiana? Louisiana offers several financial assistance programs for seniors, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for food aid, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for utility bill support, and the Senior Rx Program for help with prescription medication costs.

2. How can seniors in Louisiana apply for Medicaid? Seniors can apply for Medicaid in Louisiana online through the Louisiana Department of Health’s Medicaid Self-Service Portal, by mail, or in person at any Medicaid application center. Essential documents include proof of age, income, residency, and assets.

3. Are there specific housing and rent assistance programs for seniors in Louisiana? The Louisiana Housing Corporation (LHC) administers the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) providing rental assistance to eligible low-income families, including seniors. Additionally, the LHC offers information on affordable housing developments geared towards seniors.

4. Can seniors receive help with utility and energy bills in Louisiana? Yes, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers financial assistance to help eligible senior households manage their heating and cooling expenses, ensuring their comfort and safety throughout the year.

5. How do seniors get assistance with prescription drugs in Louisiana? The Louisiana Senior Rx Program provides assistance to seniors for prescription medications, helping to cover costs that Medicare Part D does not. Eligibility criteria include age, income, and residency requirements.

6. What property tax relief options are available for seniors in Louisiana? Louisiana offers a Special Assessment Level Freeze for seniors 65 and older, which freezes the assessed value of their primary residence if they meet certain income limitations, potentially lowering their property tax bill.

7. What in-home care services can seniors access in Louisiana? Through the Louisiana Department of Health, the Elderly and Disabled Adult Waiver Program provides various in-home services, including personal care, attendant services, meal delivery, and emergency response systems, to help seniors maintain independence.

8. How can seniors access transportation services in Louisiana? Many local Area Agencies on Aging in Louisiana provide or coordinate transportation services for seniors, offering accessible rides for medical appointments, shopping, and other essential activities.

9. What nutritional programs are available for seniors in Louisiana? The Louisiana Department of Health supports nutritional programs like the Elderly Nutrition Program, which offers congregate meals at senior centers and home-delivered meals to eligible homebound seniors, promoting healthy eating and social interaction.

10. How can seniors in Louisiana receive legal assistance? Legal assistance for seniors in Louisiana is available through the Louisiana Legal Services and Advocacy Center, providing free legal aid on issues such as healthcare, housing, consumer rights, and elder abuse.