Senior benefits in Laurens County, South Carolina

The Upper Savannah Council of Governments' Area Agency on Aging is named by the South Carolina Department on Aging to plan and coordinate services for older adults in Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, McCormick and Saluda counties, including Laurens County. It is also an Aging and Disability Resource Center for seniors and people with disabilities. Regional services include group dining, home-delivered meals, transportation, home care, respite care, legal help, Medicare counseling (I-CARE), a long-term care ombudsman, and a Family Caregiver Support Program. Most services require a yearly assessment. Call the Information and Referral line at 864-941-8077 to get started.

Estimated service value: $200–$2,000 a year

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay home heating and cooling bills. In Laurens County, LIHEAP applications are taken by GLEAMNS Human Resources Commission. GLEAMNS gives priority to older adults, people with disabilities, families with young children, and households facing an energy emergency such as a shutoff. Call the Laurens County office at 864-984-5123 to ask how to apply. Bring proof of income and a current energy bill in an adult household member's name. Help depends on available funds.

Estimated bill savings: $300–$1,000 a year

Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital in Clinton offers financial assistance for emergency and other medically necessary care to insured and uninsured patients who meet income and asset limits. Prisma Health says patients at or below 250% of the federal poverty guidelines may qualify for financial assistance, and patients between 251% and 400% may qualify for a sliding-scale discount. Call 833-425-0404 (toll-free) for help, or return the application to any Prisma Health facility.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

Piedmont Agency on Aging serves Greenwood, Abbeville, Laurens, and Saluda counties, including Laurens County. Its senior transportation program gives rides to people who are 60 or older and not eligible for Medicaid transportation — to and from group dining sites, doctor's offices, and the grocery store. Give three days' notice. Private-pay rides are also offered. Call 864-223-0164 to schedule.

Estimated service value: $150–$1,500 a year