Senior Resources Resources in Mississippi
Last updated September 26, 2026
Mississippi has a network of federal and state programs designed to help older adults stay healthy, housed, and connected. Whether you need help covering groceries, paying a utility bill, finding in-home care, or navigating Medicaid, there are trained professionals and established programs ready to assist—often at no cost to you.
The best starting point for most Mississippi seniors and caregivers is dialing 2-1-1 (Mississippi's statewide helpline) or calling the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116. Both services can connect you with your local Area Agency on Aging, which coordinates a wide range of services including meal delivery, transportation, caregiver support, and benefits counseling specific to your county.
Many programs have income or age requirements, and benefits can change. Always confirm current eligibility details directly with the administering agency. If you are in a crisis—whether related to mental health, domestic violence, or housing—free hotlines are available 24/7 and are listed below.
Key programs in Mississippi
Mississippi Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) / Area Agencies on Aging
Coordinates home- and community-based services for adults 60 and older, including congregate and home-delivered meals (Meals on Wheels-style programs), caregiver respite, transportation assistance, legal aid referrals, and benefits counseling.
How to access: Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 to be connected to the Area Agency on Aging serving your county, or dial 2-1-1 for a local referral. DAAS is housed within the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS).
Mississippi Medicaid (Division of Medicaid)
Provides health coverage for low-income Mississippians, including seniors who need nursing facility care, home health services, or the elderly and disabled waiver programs that can fund in-home personal care as an alternative to nursing home placement.
How to access: Apply online at dom.ms.gov, visit your local MDHS county office, or call the Division of Medicaid at 1-800-421-2408. A social worker or benefits counselor at your local Area Agency on Aging can also help you apply.
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) – Mississippi
Provides monthly electronic benefits to purchase food for eligible low-income households, including many seniors on fixed incomes. Seniors living alone often qualify at higher income levels than the general public may expect.
How to access: Apply online through the MDHS website (mdhs.ms.gov) or at your county MDHS office. You can also dial 2-1-1 for help locating your nearest office and completing the application.
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) – Mississippi
Helps low-income households, including seniors on fixed incomes, pay heating and cooling utility bills. Mississippi administers LIHEAP through MDHS, and funds are limited and distributed seasonally, so early application is important.
How to access: Contact your county MDHS office or dial 2-1-1 to find out when the current enrollment period is open and how to apply. Availability depends on annual federal funding allocations.
Veterans Benefits – VA Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System & State Veterans Affairs
Veterans 65 and older may qualify for VA health care, the Aid & Attendance pension benefit (which helps pay for in-home or assisted-living care), and other services through the Mississippi State Veterans Affairs Board.
How to access: Contact the VA Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System at 1-800-296-8872 or visit va.gov to apply for health care and benefits. The Mississippi State Veterans Affairs Board can provide additional state-level assistance; dial 2-1-1 or visit msvab.ms.gov for referrals to accredited claims agents.
Senior Resources resources for Mississippi
Eldercare Locator
NationwidePublic service connecting older adults and caregivers to trustworthy local support resources.
Medicare
NationwideFederal health insurance information and enrollment help for people 65+ and some younger people with disabilities.
National Council on Aging
NationwideBenefits screening and programs to help older adults age well and stay financially secure.
Other resources in Mississippi
- Housing Assistance in Mississippi
- Food Assistance in Mississippi
- Utility Assistance in Mississippi
- Transportation Assistance in Mississippi
- Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance in Mississippi
- Mental Health Resources in Mississippi
- Domestic Violence Resources in Mississippi
- Disability Resources in Mississippi
- Veteran Resources in Mississippi
- Child & Family Assistance in Mississippi