Senior Resources Resources in North Carolina

Last updated September 7, 2026

North Carolina is home to a wide network of programs designed to help older adults live safely, independently, and with dignity. Whether you or someone you love needs help with food, utilities, health coverage, in-home care, or a safe place to turn in a crisis, there are real, funded programs available — and local professionals who can help you navigate them.

The best first step for many North Carolina seniors and caregivers is to call 2-1-1 (dial 2-1-1 or visit nc211.org). Staffed around the clock, 2-1-1 North Carolina can connect you to local aging services, transportation, meal programs, housing assistance, and much more — all screened for your county. You can also reach your local Area Agency on Aging by calling the national Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116; North Carolina is served by 16 regional AAAs that coordinate the majority of in-home and community-based services for adults 60 and older.

Eligibility rules, income limits, and program availability can change, so always verify current details directly with the agency. The programs listed below are federally and state-funded and are available across North Carolina, though local waiting lists and capacity vary.

Key programs in North Carolina

NC Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) — Area Agencies on Aging

Coordinates in-home care, caregiver support, legal assistance, nutrition programs (including home-delivered meals), transportation, and benefits counseling for adults 60 and older across all 100 North Carolina counties.

How to access: Call the national Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 to be connected to your local Area Agency on Aging, or visit the NC DAAS website at ncdhhs.gov/divisions/aging-and-adult-services. You can also dial 2-1-1 for a local referral.

NC Medicaid (including Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults — CAP/DA)

Provides health coverage for low-income older adults, including doctor visits, prescriptions, and long-term services. CAP/DA is a Medicaid waiver that funds in-home personal care as an alternative to nursing home placement.

How to access: Apply for Medicaid through your local county Department of Social Services (DSS) or online at epass.nc.gov. Ask your DSS caseworker specifically about CAP/DA if in-home care is needed. Call 2-1-1 for help locating your county DSS office.

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

Provides monthly electronic benefits to purchase groceries, helping low-income seniors stretch their food budget. Many older adults on fixed incomes qualify even if they own a home.

How to access: Apply online at epass.nc.gov, in person at your county Department of Social Services, or by calling your local DSS office. Call 2-1-1 if you need help with the application or need someone to apply on your behalf.

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)

Helps eligible low-income households, including seniors on fixed incomes, pay heating and cooling utility bills and address energy-related home repairs or weatherization through linked programs.

How to access: In North Carolina, LIHEAP is administered locally. Contact your county Department of Social Services or call 2-1-1 to find out when your county's enrollment period opens and how to apply. Funding is limited and seasonal, so apply as early as possible.

NC State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIIP)

Free, unbiased counseling to help Medicare beneficiaries in North Carolina understand their Medicare options, compare Part D drug plans, identify potential savings programs (like Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs), and resolve billing problems.

How to access: Call SHIIP at 1-855-408-1212 (toll-free in NC) or visit ncdoi.gov/shiip. Counselors are available statewide, including through local AAAs and senior centers.

Senior Resources resources for North Carolina

Eldercare Locator

Nationwide

Public service connecting older adults and caregivers to trustworthy local support resources.

1-800-677-1116
Visit

Medicare

Nationwide

Federal health insurance information and enrollment help for people 65+ and some younger people with disabilities.

1-800-633-4227
Visit

National Council on Aging

Nationwide

Benefits screening and programs to help older adults age well and stay financially secure.

Visit
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