Area Agencies on Aging in South Carolina

Complete Guide to Area Agencies on Aging in South Carolina (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

Emergency Resources and Immediate Assistance

Call 911 immediately for life-threatening emergencies, medical crises, or situations involving immediate physical danger.

For urgent aging and disability concerns:

• Adult Protective Services: 1-888-227-3505 – Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 – Free, confidential crisis support available 24/7
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Mental health emergency intervention and support
• 2-1-1 South Carolina: Dial 2-1-1 – Connect with local emergency resources and community services

For immediate aging services:

• South Carolina Department on Aging: 1-800-868-9095 – Statewide helpline for aging services information
• GetCareSC.com – Online resource center for aging and disability services
• Contact your regional Area Agency on Aging for emergency food, transportation, and shelter assistance

Essential South Carolina Aging Services Overview

• South Carolina has 10 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serving all 46 counties across the state
• Services available for seniors 60+ and their caregivers with many programs having no income requirements
• South Carolina Department on Aging coordinates services statewide from Columbia
• GetCareSC.com serves as the state’s comprehensive aging resource website
• Community Choices Waiver program provides Medicaid-funded home and community-based services
• No asset limits for basic information services – anyone can call for help and guidance
• Strong coastal and rural service networks adapted for South Carolina’s diverse geographic regions
• Hurricane and disaster preparedness integrated into all aging service programs

Understanding South Carolina’s Aging Services Network

South Carolina operates a comprehensive aging services network designed to help older adults maintain independence and quality of life throughout the Palmetto State. The system recognizes South Carolina’s diverse geography, from the Blue Ridge Mountains in the upstate to the coastal lowcountry, and adapts services to meet the unique needs of each region.

The South Carolina Department on Aging (SCDOA) serves as the state’s coordinating agency, working under the Lieutenant Governor’s Office to develop policies, distribute funding, and ensure quality standards across the state. SCDOA oversees a network of 10 Area Agencies on Aging that deliver services at the regional level, ensuring that all 46 counties have access to essential aging services.

What makes South Carolina’s system distinctive is its emphasis on “aging in place” – helping seniors remain in their homes and communities for as long as possible. This philosophy drives the state’s focus on home and community-based services, prevention and wellness programs, and strong caregiver support systems.

South Carolina’s aging network also recognizes the state’s vulnerability to natural disasters, particularly hurricanes, and has integrated emergency preparedness and disaster response into all service delivery models. This ensures that older adults have the support they need during emergencies and can recover quickly from disasters.

The state’s commitment to innovation is evident in programs like GetCareSC.com, a comprehensive online resource that allows residents to find services by entering their ZIP code, and the ElderCare Trust Fund, which supports innovative programs that help seniors age in place.

South Carolina’s 10 Area Agencies on Aging

Note: Contact information may change. Always verify current details by calling 1-800-868-9095 or visiting GetCareSC.com for the most up-to-date information.

Core Services Provided by South Carolina AAAs

Information and Assistance Services

Every South Carolina AAA provides comprehensive information and assistance to help residents navigate available resources and access appropriate services. Professional staff members offer guidance on:

• Complete benefit eligibility assessments and application assistance
• Medicare enrollment, plan comparisons, and appeals guidance
• Medicaid and Community Choices Waiver program navigation
• Community resource identification and service coordination
• Crisis intervention and emergency planning assistance
• Healthcare advocacy and system navigation support
• Disaster preparedness and emergency response planning

These foundational services require no eligibility criteria – anyone can contact their AAA for information and assistance.

Nutrition and Meal Programs

South Carolina AAAs operate extensive nutrition programs recognizing that proper nutrition is essential for maintaining health and independence as we age:

Congregate Meal Programs: Nutritious meals served at senior centers, community centers, and churches throughout South Carolina. These programs provide social interaction, health education, and community connection alongside nutrition. Suggested donations range from $3-5, but no one is refused service for inability to contribute.

Home-Delivered Meal Services: For seniors who are homebound or have difficulty preparing meals, AAAs coordinate comprehensive meal delivery programs. Services include hot meals, frozen meal packages, and specialized diets for medical conditions. Volunteers provide regular wellness checks during deliveries.

Nutrition Education and Counseling: AAAs offer nutrition education classes, dietary counseling for chronic conditions, and assistance accessing federal nutrition programs like SNAP and commodity food distribution.

South Carolina Reality: Hurricane season and severe weather can significantly impact meal delivery schedules. AAAs maintain emergency food supplies and have detailed backup delivery plans for weather emergencies common in the state.

Transportation Services

Transportation represents a critical need across South Carolina, particularly in rural areas and for medical appointments in distant urban centers. AAAs address this challenge through diverse programs:

Medical Transportation: Priority transportation for healthcare appointments, dialysis, physical therapy, and medical treatments. Many AAAs coordinate transportation to major medical centers in Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville.

Essential Transportation: Scheduled rides for grocery shopping, pharmacy visits, banking, and other necessary errands. Coastal AAAs often coordinate transportation during tourist seasons when traffic congestion affects normal routes.

Volunteer Driver Programs: Extensive volunteer driver networks provide flexible, personalized transportation services. These programs are particularly effective in rural areas and small communities throughout the state.

Disaster Transportation: Special transportation protocols for hurricane evacuations and emergency shelter transport, coordinated with state and local emergency management agencies.

Service Note: Hurricane season (June-November) can significantly affect transportation availability. Schedule non-emergency medical appointments outside peak hurricane season when possible, and maintain emergency transportation plans.

Legal Assistance and Advocacy

AAAs provide free legal assistance for seniors in civil matters affecting their safety, independence, and financial security. Common legal issues include:

• Medicare and Medicaid disputes and appeals processes
• Social Security disability and retirement benefit problems
• Housing discrimination and landlord-tenant disputes
• Consumer protection and financial exploitation cases
• Hurricane and disaster-related legal issues (insurance claims, contractor fraud)
• Basic estate planning including wills and advance directives
• Family law matters affecting older adults

Legal services are provided through partnerships with South Carolina Legal Services, the South Carolina Bar Pro Bono Program, and volunteer attorney programs.

Medicare and Insurance Counseling

South Carolina AAAs participate in the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), providing unbiased counseling on Medicare and insurance matters:

• Medicare enrollment assistance and annual plan reviews
• Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plan evaluations
• Part D prescription drug plan selection and optimization
• Claims appeals and billing dispute resolution
• Medicare fraud education and reporting assistance
• Long-term care insurance counseling and planning

SHIP counselors serve all 46 counties through a combination of office-based, community, and telephone counseling services.

Care Coordination and Case Management

For individuals with complex needs, AAAs provide comprehensive care coordination services to help navigate multiple services and ensure appropriate care:

• Comprehensive functional and psychosocial assessments
• Individualized care plan development and implementation
• Ongoing service monitoring and plan adjustments
• Healthcare system navigation and provider coordination
• Crisis intervention and emergency response planning
• Family conference facilitation and caregiver education
• Disaster preparedness and recovery coordination

Family Caregiver Support Programs

South Carolina AAAs operate robust caregiver support programs recognizing that family caregivers provide the majority of long-term care in the state:

Education and Training: Workshops on caregiving techniques, stress management, understanding medical conditions, and recognizing when professional intervention is needed.

Support Groups and Counseling: Peer support groups and individual counseling services to help caregivers manage emotional and practical challenges of caregiving.

Respite Care Services: Temporary care arrangements allowing family caregivers essential time for rest, personal appointments, or other responsibilities. Options include in-home companions, adult day programs, and short-term residential care.

Supplemental Support Services: Limited funding for services not covered by other programs, including emergency respite, assistive devices, home safety modifications, and caregiver training materials.

South Carolina Medicaid Waiver Programs

South Carolina offers Medicaid waiver programs that help eligible seniors and people with disabilities receive care at home and in community settings rather than institutional facilities.

Community Choices (CC) Waiver

South Carolina’s primary Medicaid long-term care waiver program provides comprehensive services for individuals who require nursing home-level care but prefer to remain in their communities.

Available Services Include:

• Personal care assistance with activities of daily living
• Adult day health care services with nursing supervision
• Homemaker services including meal preparation and light housekeeping
• Respite care for family caregivers (in-home and facility-based)
• Personal emergency response systems and monitoring
• Home modifications and accessibility improvements
• Specialized medical equipment and assistive technology
• Transportation for medical appointments and essential errands
• Waiver case management and service coordination

2025 Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be 65 years of age or older, OR 18-64 years old with a physical disability
• Must require nursing facility level of care as determined by assessment
• Must be South Carolina Medicaid (Healthy Connections) eligible
• Income limit: $2,901 per month (300% of Federal Benefit Rate)
• Asset limit: $2,000 for individuals, with spousal protections for married couples
• Must choose community-based care over nursing home placement

Important Features:

• No enrollment caps, but funding limitations may create waiting periods
• Consumer direction options allowing choice of caregivers
• Services can be provided in homes, adult foster care, or community residential care facilities
• Emphasis on person-centered planning and individual choice

Healthy Connections Prime

A managed care program specifically for individuals who are “dual eligible” (enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid), providing integrated long-term care services and coordination.

Community Supports Waiver

Primarily serves individuals with intellectual disabilities but may also serve some older adults with these conditions who require specialized support services.

Special Population Services in South Carolina

Coastal and Lowcountry Communities

South Carolina’s coastal regions face unique challenges that AAAs address through specialized service delivery approaches:

Coastal-Specific Services:

• Hurricane evacuation and emergency shelter coordination
• Seasonal population adjustments for “snowbird” residents
• Salt air and flood-resistant equipment and home modifications
• Island and remote coastal community service delivery
• Tourism season traffic and accessibility planning

Hurricane and Disaster Services:

• Pre-positioned emergency supplies and generators
• Evacuation transportation for seniors and people with disabilities
• Emergency shelter coordination with special needs considerations
• Post-disaster recovery assistance and rebuilding support
• Climate resilience planning and adaptation services

Rural and Agricultural Communities

South Carolina’s rural areas require innovative service delivery approaches adapted to agricultural communities and small towns:

Rural Service Adaptations:

• Mobile service units bringing services directly to remote communities
• Consolidated service delivery combining multiple programs in single visits
• Agricultural seasonal worker and family considerations
• Faith-based and community organization partnerships
• Extended service areas with specialized transportation solutions

Small Town Services:

• Community-based volunteer networks and mutual aid systems
• Local business and organization partnerships
• Seasonal and holiday programming adaptations
• Traditional Southern culture and family structure considerations
• Historical preservation and community pride integration

African American Communities

South Carolina has a significant African American population, and AAAs provide culturally competent services addressing historical barriers and cultural preferences:

Culturally Responsive Services:

• Programming through historically black churches and organizations
• Traditional food preferences in meal programs
• Health programming addressing prevalent chronic conditions
• Historical trauma-informed care approaches
• Extended family and community network integration

Veterans and Military Families

South Carolina has a substantial veteran population and numerous military installations, requiring specialized coordination:

Veteran-Specific Services:

• Assistance accessing VA medical care and disability benefits
• Transportation to VA medical centers in Charleston and Columbia
• Help with VA pension and healthcare applications
• Coordination between civilian and military benefits
• Honor guard and military burial coordination

Key Resources:

• South Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs: 803-647-2434
• Charleston VA Medical Center: 843-577-5011
• Columbia VA Medical Center: 803-776-4000
• Veterans Crisis Line: 988, Press 1

Gullah Geechee Communities

The unique Gullah Geechee culture of South Carolina’s lowcountry requires specialized cultural competency:

Cultural Considerations:

• Traditional healing and health practices integration
• Language preservation and communication considerations
• Traditional food and nutrition programming
• Community elder respect and wisdom traditions
• Island and remote community access considerations

Hispanic/Latino Communities

Growing Hispanic/Latino populations receive targeted services addressing language and cultural barriers:

Bilingual Services:

• Spanish-language programming and materials
• Bilingual staff and interpretation services
• Cultural health and nutrition education
• Immigration status and documentation assistance
• Traditional family structure and caregiving patterns

Accessing Services: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Contact Your Regional AAA or Use GetCareSC.com

Visit GetCareSC.com and enter your ZIP code to find local services, or use the directory above to identify which AAA serves your county. Call their main number during business hours or use the statewide helpline at 1-800-868-9095.

Step 2: Initial Consultation and Assessment

AAA staff will conduct an initial consultation covering:

• Your current living situation and support network
• Specific services or assistance you’re seeking
• Health status and functional capabilities
• Financial situation for income-based programs
• Geographic location and local service availability
• Immediate safety concerns or urgent needs
• Emergency preparedness and disaster planning

This conversation typically takes 20-30 minutes and helps staff determine appropriate next steps and local resources.

Step 3: Comprehensive Assessment (When Required)

For ongoing services or waiver programs, you may need a detailed assessment:

• Telephone Assessment: For basic services like meal programs or information services
• Office-Based Assessment: For case management or complex service coordination
• Home Assessment: For Community Choices Waiver programs, home modifications, or safety evaluations

Assessments evaluate physical and cognitive functioning, safety concerns, social support systems, and service preferences.

Step 4: Service Planning and Implementation

Based on your assessment, AAA staff will:

• Explain available services and program eligibility requirements
• Assist with applications for Medicaid, Community Choices Waiver, or other benefits
• Develop a comprehensive, individualized service plan
• Connect you with local service providers and community organizations
• Schedule and coordinate ongoing services and supports
• Develop emergency and disaster preparedness plans

Step 5: Ongoing Monitoring and Support

AAAs provide continued assistance through:

• Regular contact to assess changing needs and circumstances
• Annual reassessments for waiver program participants
• Assistance accessing new services as needs evolve
• Advocacy when service problems or barriers arise
• Crisis intervention and emergency response coordination
• Hurricane and disaster recovery assistance

Program Costs and Financial Assistance

No-Cost Services

These services are available without charge to eligible participants:

• Information and assistance consultations
• Medicare counseling and benefits assistance
• Legal consultations and advice
• Care coordination and service planning
• Caregiver education and support groups
• Emergency preparedness planning

Donation-Based Services

These services have suggested donation amounts but cannot deny service for inability to pay:

• Congregate meal programs ($3-5 suggested donation)
• Home-delivered meals ($4-6 suggested donation)
• Transportation services ($2-5 suggested donation per trip)
• Social activities and educational programs

Income-Based Services

Some services use sliding fee scales based on household income:

• Community Choices Waiver personal care and homemaker services (Medicaid-funded)
• Adult day programs
• Extended respite care services
• Home modification projects

Insurance and Medicaid Coverage

Many services can be covered through:

• Community Choices Waiver program
• Medicare for medically necessary services
• Veterans benefits for eligible veterans and spouses
• Private insurance (limited coverage)
• South Carolina state-funded programs

Financial Reality: Even free services operate with limited funding, creating potential waiting lists, reduced service levels during budget constraints, and possible service interruptions. Donations help programs serve more people and maintain service quality, especially important during hurricane recovery periods.

Quality Assurance and Consumer Protection

Program Standards and Oversight

South Carolina AAAs must meet stringent standards for:

• Staff training and professional qualifications
• Service quality and safety protocols
• Financial accountability and management
• Cultural competency and non-discrimination practices
• Privacy protection and confidentiality requirements
• Emergency preparedness and disaster response capabilities

Monitoring and Accountability

AAAs are regularly monitored by:

• South Carolina Department on Aging
• Federal Administration for Community Living
• Independent financial and programmatic auditors
• Local advisory councils and governing boards
• Consumer feedback and complaint systems

Complaint Resolution Process

If you experience problems with services:

1. Address concerns with your service provider – Many issues can be resolved quickly at the direct service level
2. Contact the AAA supervisor or director – Each AAA has formal complaint procedures and consumer advocacy
3. File a complaint with the South Carolina Department on Aging – Call 1-800-868-9095 for state-level intervention
4. Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman – For issues with nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or residential care facilities

Your Rights as a Service Recipient

You have the right to:

• Respectful, dignified treatment regardless of background, circumstances, or ability to pay
• Services provided without discrimination based on race, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or other protected characteristics
• Confidential handling of personal, medical, and financial information
• Active participation in decisions about your care and services
• File complaints without fear of retaliation or service termination
• Receive services that meet established professional and safety standards
• Emergency assistance during disasters and recovery support

Regional Service Highlights

Upstate Region (Appalachian AAA)

• Mountain community specialized programming
• Manufacturing and textile industry retiree services
• Strong healthcare partnerships with Greenville Health System
• Outdoor recreation and wellness programming

Central Region (Central Midlands AAA)

• State government coordination and urban services
• University partnerships and educational programming
• Comprehensive medical center access and coordination
• Diverse cultural and ethnic community programming

Lowcountry/Coastal Regions (Trident, Lowcountry, Waccamaw AAAs)

• Hurricane preparedness and disaster response specialization
• Tourist season service adaptations and “snowbird” programming
• Salt marsh and island community service delivery
• Gullah Geechee cultural programming and preservation

Pee Dee/Rural Regions (Multiple AAAs)

• Agricultural community specialized programming
• Extensive rural service delivery networks
• Tobacco and farming transition support services
• Small town and faith-based partnerships

Frequently Asked Questions

How does South Carolina’s hurricane season affect aging services?

South Carolina AAAs have comprehensive hurricane preparedness plans including pre-positioned emergency supplies, evacuation transportation for seniors and people with disabilities, emergency shelter coordination, and post-storm recovery assistance. During hurricane season (June-November), services may be temporarily suspended during severe weather, but emergency protocols continue. Many AAAs pre-deliver emergency food supplies and coordinate with emergency management agencies to ensure older adults are included in evacuation and shelter plans.

What is the Community Choices Waiver and how do I apply?

The Community Choices Waiver is South Carolina’s Medicaid program that helps seniors 65+ and adults 18-64 with physical disabilities receive nursing home-level care at home. To qualify, you must need nursing facility level of care, meet Medicaid income/asset limits ($2,901/month income, $2,000 in assets), and choose community-based care. Contact your local AAA or call 1-800-868-9095 to start the application process. There are no enrollment caps, but funding limitations may create waiting periods.

Are services available for “snowbirds” who spend only part of the year in South Carolina?

Yes, many AAAs in coastal areas have programs adapted for seasonal residents. However, services may be limited compared to year-round residents. Some programs like Medicare counseling and information services are available to anyone, while others like meal delivery may require establishing temporary residence. Contact your local AAA to discuss seasonal service options and determine what’s available based on your specific circumstances.

How do rural AAAs serve remote areas of South Carolina?

Rural AAAs use innovative approaches including mobile service units, volunteer driver networks, faith-based partnerships, and consolidated service visits. Many coordinate regional transportation to larger towns for medical appointments and shopping. However, rural residents should expect longer travel times for some services and may need to plan further in advance. Some services are delivered through local churches, community centers, and volunteer networks to extend reach into remote areas.

What support is available for family caregivers in South Carolina?

All AAAs provide comprehensive caregiver support including education workshops, support groups, respite care services, and access to the National Family Caregiver Support Program. South Carolina also has specialized dementia care specialists and caregiver training programs. Services include both in-person and virtual options, emergency respite care, and assistance with caregiver stress and burnout. Contact your local AAA for specific programs in your area.

Can veterans access both VA services and AAA services?

Yes, veterans can access both systems. AAAs coordinate extensively with VA services and provide assistance accessing VA benefits, transportation to VA medical centers, and help with VA applications. Many services complement rather than duplicate each other. For example, AAAs may provide transportation to VA appointments or meal delivery while the VA provides medical care. AAAs can also help with non-medical needs that the VA doesn’t cover.

What legal assistance is available for seniors in South Carolina?

AAAs provide free legal assistance for civil matters through partnerships with South Carolina Legal Services and volunteer attorney programs. Services include help with Medicare/Medicaid appeals, Social Security issues, consumer protection, basic estate planning, and housing problems. Hurricane and disaster-related legal issues like insurance claims and contractor fraud are also covered. Legal assistance prioritizes seniors with the greatest economic and social need.

How does GetCareSC.com work and what services can I find there?

GetCareSC.com is South Carolina’s comprehensive aging resource website where you can enter your ZIP code to find local services. The site includes information about meal programs, transportation, home care, legal assistance, caregiver support, and emergency services. You can also find contact information for your local AAA, apply for some services online, and access educational resources. If you can’t find what you need online, call 1-800-868-9095 to speak with someone directly.

What Medicaid programs are available for seniors in South Carolina?

South Carolina offers several Medicaid programs including the Community Choices Waiver (for seniors needing nursing home-level care at home), Healthy Connections Prime (for dual Medicare/Medicaid eligible individuals), and regular Medicaid for health coverage. The Community Choices Waiver is the primary long-term care program, providing personal care, adult day care, home modifications, and other services. Contact your AAA for help determining which programs you may qualify for and assistance with applications.

Are there special services for South Carolina’s diverse cultural communities?

Yes, AAAs provide culturally competent services for African American, Hispanic/Latino, Gullah Geechee, and other cultural communities. This includes bilingual services, culturally appropriate programming, traditional food preferences in meal programs, and partnerships with cultural organizations and churches. Services respect traditional family structures, cultural health practices, and community values while ensuring access to mainstream aging services.

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Important Disclaimers

Program details, contact information, eligibility requirements, and service availability can change without advance notice. While this guide reflects the most current information available as of August 2025, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with the appropriate Area Agency on Aging, the South Carolina Department on Aging, or GetCareSC.com before making decisions or applying for services.

This guide provides general information only and does not constitute professional legal, medical, or financial advice. Individual circumstances vary significantly, and you should consult with qualified professionals for advice specific to your situation.

For the most current information, contact:

• South Carolina Department on Aging: 1-800-868-9095
• GetCareSC.com – Enter your ZIP code for local services
• Your local Area Agency on Aging (see directory above)

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About This Guide

Researched and Compiled by Grants for Seniors

This guide has been thoroughly researched using verified government sources and official program documentation. Our research team systematically reviews federal and state aging program information to create accurate, comprehensive resources for older Americans and people with disabilities seeking support services and financial assistance.

Information Sources: All content is sourced from official government websites including the South Carolina Department on Aging, GetCareSC.com, South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, federal aging administration sites, and verified Area Agency on Aging documentation.

Verification Process: Each program listing undergoes comprehensive verification through cross-referencing multiple official sources, confirming current program status and contact information, verifying eligibility requirements and service availability, and checking for recent program changes or updates.

Currency and Updates: • Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Scheduled Review: February 2026

Important Note: Government programs and contact information can change rapidly. While this guide uses the most current available information, we strongly recommend confirming all details directly with program administrators before applying for services or making decisions based on this information.

Report Errors or Updates: If you discover outdated information or know of additional programs that should be included, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Always confirm program details, eligibility requirements, and service availability with official sources before applying for services or making decisions based on this information.

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This resource is independently researched to help South Carolina seniors and people with disabilities access available support services and benefits programs.