Free help for older people

Plenty of help is available as people get older, but much of it has to be claimed. Here's a checklist.

Health

Prescriptions: free at 60 or over in England, and free for everyone in Scotland and Wales.
Eye tests: free at 60 or over in England, and free for everyone in Scotland. See sight loss.
Hearing aids: free on the NHS, with free batteries and repairs. See hearing loss.

Pension Credit tops up a low income, and unlocks much of the help below.
Attendance Allowance isn't means-tested, and helps with the extra costs of needing care.
Council Tax reductions, including discounts linked to dementia and disability.

Winter Fuel Payment: between £100 and £300 for winter 2026 to 2027 if born on or before 27 June 1960. Most people get it automatically. HMRC takes it back if someone's own income is over £35,000. In Scotland, it's been replaced by Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, between £105.55 and £316.70.
Warm Home Discount: £150 off the electricity bill for people who get Pension Credit or are in a low-income household. Usually automatic in England and Wales; in Scotland you may need to apply to your supplier.
Cold Weather Payments, for people on certain benefits, when it's very cold for 7 days in a row.

A free bus pass at State Pension age in England, and at 60 in Scotland and Wales. See getting out and about.
A Blue Badge, for people who find journeys difficult. See our Blue Badge guide.

A free TV licence for people aged 75 or over who get Pension Credit, and a discounted licence for people who are blind.
The Priority Services Register: free extra help from energy suppliers for people over State Pension age or with a disability or long-term condition, including advance notice of power cuts, a password scheme so you know callers are genuine, and the option for a family member to receive bills. Ask your energy supplier to add you.
Free equipment and small adaptations, if the council's assessment finds they're needed. See everyday aids and gadgets.