Seniors can access a variety of resources in South Carolina.
More than 13 percent of South Carolina's population is age 65 or older, according to a 2009 report by the U.S. Census Bureau. In fact, the age groups of 50 to 54 and over 85 comprise the fastest-growing population groups in the state. South Carolina is also a popular retirement destination for seniors. A growing senior population requires resources. Several government offices, educational institutions and public agencies offer services to South Carolina's seniors.
Office on Aging
The South Carolina Lieutenant Governor's Office on Aging provides a number of resources for seniors including legal services through the ombudsman's office, a newsletter containing aging-related information, and coordination of aging support services such as Alzheimer services, family and caregiver support, Medicare guidance and assistance with advanced directives such as living wills. The Office on Aging also sponsors the South Carolina Centenarian Society, an honorary club for seniors over age 100.
Hampton County Council on Aging
The Hampton County Council on Aging provides services to seniors over age 60 who reside in Hampton County. The Council offers transportation to and from Hampton County senior centers, local grocery and drug stores, medical offices, and barbers or salons. Homebound seniors that meet certain physical disability requirements can receive meal delivery services. Homecare services can include house cleaning, minor repairs and grocery shopping for disabled seniors. The Council also operates several senior centers that provide activities such as exercise, bingo, nutrition lessons, blood pressure checks and meals.
Senior Resources
Senior Resources, a nonprofit organization, offers a variety of programs for seniors over age 55 who live in South Carolina's Midlands. The Foster Grandparents program provides volunteer opportunities for seniors who wish to work with special-needs children in settings such as hospitals, shelters or schools. The Home Care program matches seniors and families with experienced, in-home, long- or short-term caregivers and helps connect seniors with social services. The Meals on Wheels program delivers hot meals to homebound or disabled seniors, and even provides food for pets if needed. The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program matches senior volunteers with community agencies that need assistance with activities such as tutoring and mentoring.
Senior Services
Senior Services is a nonprofit and serves 55-and-over seniors in Anderson, Greenville, Oconee and Pickens Counties. Senior Solutions provides transportation services, home caregivers, insurance services and adult day care. Senior Services operates two senior centers, both of which offer classes, exercise facilities, computer labs and dining.
Educational Institutions
Several South Carolina academic institutions offer free tuition to seniors. Aiken Technical College and Winthrop University offer tuition-free access to credit and non-credit classes for seniors ages 60 and over on a space-available basis. Seniors must pay any lab fees and pass through an admissions process to qualify.
Tags: South Carolina, Hampton County, County Council, Hampton County Council, Office Aging, senior centers, Senior Resources
