Senior Resources Resources in South Carolina
Last updated September 7, 2026
South Carolina is home to a wide network of state and federally funded programs designed to help older adults live safely, independently, and with dignity. Whether you or a loved one needs help with food, health coverage, home-based care, or utility bills, there are real programs available—and navigating them is easier when you know where to start.
The best first step for most South Carolina seniors and caregivers is calling 2-1-1 South Carolina (dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211). Trained specialists can connect you to local services across every county, from meal delivery to transportation to caregiver respite programs. If your needs are specifically related to long-term care or aging services, the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 can connect you to your local Area Agency on Aging, which serves every region of the state.
South Carolina's primary state agency overseeing Medicaid and many social services is the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS). For aging-specific programs and advocacy, the South Carolina Lieutenant Governor's Office on Aging (LGOA) oversees the statewide aging services network, including home and community-based services, legal aid, and caregiver support. Both agencies are key entry points for older adults seeking help.
Key programs in South Carolina
South Carolina Medicaid (SCDHHS)
Covers medical costs for low-income seniors, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and long-term care. Waiver programs may also fund in-home personal care to help seniors avoid nursing home placement.
How to access: Apply online at mySCInfo.org, call SCDHHS at 1-888-549-0820, or visit your local SCDHHS county office. A social worker or your local Area Agency on Aging can help with the application.
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
Provides monthly funds loaded onto an EBT card to help purchase groceries. Seniors 60+ may qualify under separate income rules and may be able to apply with a simplified process.
How to access: Apply through SCDHHS at mySCInfo.org or call 1-800-616-1309. 2-1-1 South Carolina can also guide you to local offices or application assistance.
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
Helps low-income seniors pay heating and cooling utility bills and may cover emergency energy needs or weatherization to reduce ongoing costs.
How to access: In South Carolina, LIHEAP is administered through the SC Department of Social Services (SCDSS) and local Community Action Agencies. Call 2-1-1 or visit dss.sc.gov to find the nearest intake site and seasonal application periods.
Area Agencies on Aging (via SC Lieutenant Governor's Office on Aging)
A statewide network of regional agencies that funds home-delivered meals (Meals on Wheels-style programs), in-home care, transportation, caregiver support, legal assistance, and senior center activities for adults 60 and older.
How to access: Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or visit eldercare.acl.gov to find the Area Agency on Aging serving your county. You can also call 2-1-1 South Carolina for a local referral.
Veterans Benefits (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)
Eligible senior veterans may access VA health care, pension benefits including Aid & Attendance for those needing in-home or nursing care, and the VA Caregiver Support Program. South Carolina has multiple VA medical centers and community-based outpatient clinics.
How to access: Contact the VA at 1-800-827-1000 or visit va.gov. The South Carolina State Veterans' Affairs office (va.sc.gov) can also connect veterans to benefits counselors at no cost.
Senior Resources resources for South Carolina
Eldercare Locator
NationwidePublic service connecting older adults and caregivers to trustworthy local support resources.
Medicare
NationwideFederal health insurance information and enrollment help for people 65+ and some younger people with disabilities.
National Council on Aging
NationwideBenefits screening and programs to help older adults age well and stay financially secure.
Other resources in South Carolina
- Housing Assistance in South Carolina
- Food Assistance in South Carolina
- Utility Assistance in South Carolina
- Transportation Assistance in South Carolina
- Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance in South Carolina
- Mental Health Resources in South Carolina
- Domestic Violence Resources in South Carolina
- Disability Resources in South Carolina
- Veteran Resources in South Carolina
- Child & Family Assistance in South Carolina