Anderson’s appeal for seniors is partly due to the number and variety of free resources on offer. The following are a few of what’s available and include methods of minimizing long-term care costs, solutions to resolving care quality issues and ways to engage with the local senior community.
Resource
Contact
Services
Jo Brown Senior Center
(864) 231-2237
The Jo Brown Senior Center welcomes adults aged 55 and older, managing a rotation of programs and services designed around the seasons and national events. These include indoor activities in colder months, such as bingo and dancing and outdoor activities in summer, including trips to local farmers' markets and historical sites. The center can also help eligible seniors access some benefits, such as vouchers for the farmers' markets.
VA Aid and Attendance Benefits
(803) 647-2400
U.S. military veterans and their spouses residing in assisted living communities can apply for the VA Aid and Attendance benefit. It's a monthly payment included in the VA pension for the purpose of paying some residential care costs. Not all vets qualify, so it's worth checking eligibility by calling the nearest veterans services center in Greenville or using the free online tool provided by VeteranAid.org. Payments can vary. For example, an individual vet with an annual MAPR amount of $18,243 and a dependent spouse can get an increase of up to $27,549.
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
(800) 868-9095
SHIP counselors are impartial advisors funded by the federal government who specialize in helping seniors understand their Medicare plans and identify shortfalls in their insurance. The counselors won't try to sell plans, but they may introduce private health care insurance to help seniors cover their long-term care costs. The counselors can also source ways of reducing costs for eligible seniors and support those who have been denied Medicare.
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
(800) 868-9095
Senors residing in assisted living communities, their families and third parties can register complaints about the facilities to the Long-Term Care Ombudsman, who will investigate and seek resolutions with the owners. The ombudsman doesn't charge a fee for their services, which also includes ensuring residents in senior care facilities know their rights and providing access to inspection reports so seniors can make more informed choices.