Free public programs
Plain-language guides to the rides, Medi-Cal, Medicare, and bill-help programs LA families actually qualify for.
We describe programs; we don't make medical, legal, or insurance decisions for you. For Medicare choices, HICAP counselors advise you free: (800) 434-0222. For anything medical, talk with the doctor.
Free and Low-Cost Rides for Seniors — Start Here
A quick map to LA's ride programs for seniors — Cityride, Dial-A-Ride, Access Services, Medi-Cal rides, and Metro discounts.
Cityride — the City of LA's Ride Program for 65+
Cityride subsidizes Dial-A-Ride vans, taxi discounts, and free DASH buses for LA seniors 65+.
Glendale · Burbank · Pasadena Dial-A-Ride — Your City Drives You
Low-cost curb-to-curb van service for seniors in Glendale, Burbank, and Pasadena.
Access Services — Door-Area Rides When Regular Buses Aren't Possible
LA County's ADA paratransit for people whose disability prevents them from using regular buses and trains.
Medi-Cal Pays for Rides to Medical Appointments
Medi-Cal's NMT and NEMT transportation benefits get you to covered medical appointments for free.
IHSS — Medi-Cal Pays a Caregiver, and It Can Be Your Family Member
In-Home Supportive Services pays for help at home — and California allows the paid provider to be a family member.
Medi-Cal for Seniors — and the 2026 Asset Rule Change Families Need to Know
Medi-Cal's asset test is back as of January 1, 2026 — most articles online still describe the 2024 elimination. Here's the current rule.
Assisted Living Waiver — Medi-Cal Money Toward Assisted Living (Honest Waitlist Warning)
Medi-Cal can pay the care portion of assisted living for qualifying seniors — but the state's own page says slots are limited and there is a waitlist.
MSSP — a Care Manager Who Keeps You at Home
The Multipurpose Senior Services Program assigns frail Medi-Cal seniors a care-management team that arranges what's needed to stay home.
PACE — One Program That Becomes the Doctor, the Day Center, and the Ride
PACE wraps doctors, a day health center, therapy, medications, and rides into one team so you can stay home instead of a nursing home.
What Medicare Does — and Does NOT Do — for Aging at Home
Medicare does not pay for ongoing help at home or assisted living. Here's exactly what it covers, and who pays for the rest.
The Money Savers Nobody Applies For — Medicare Savings Programs & Extra Help
Two under-used programs that put real money back each month: Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help for drug costs.
Meals — Delivered to the Door or Around a Table
Home-delivered and congregate senior meals, free statewide through every county's Area Agency on Aging.
Lower Bills: Utility Discounts, a Cheaper Phone, and Postponing Property Taxes
Electric, gas, phone, and property-tax relief programs for LA-ring seniors — by utility provider.
For the Caregiver: Respite, Training, and Extra Services Through Medi-Cal Plans
Programs for family caregivers — respite care, training, counseling, and Medi-Cal's CalAIM Community Supports.
Veterans: Aid & Attendance — Extra Pension Money for Care Needs
VA pension recipients who need help with daily activities can receive an added monthly payment.