Senior benefits in Aiken County, South Carolina

The Lower Savannah Council of Governments is the Area Agency on Aging for Aiken County and the rest of the region (Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Calhoun and Orangeburg counties). It oversees home-delivered meals, group dining, home living support, transportation and wellness services for older adults. Its Aging, Disability, and Transportation Resource Center helps with benefits, Medicare counseling, family caregiving, long-term care questions and ride options. Call 803-649-7981 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 Aiken County, LIHEAP applications are taken by the Aiken/Barnwell Counties Community Action Agency. Contact the main office at 291 Beaufort Street NE in Aiken at 803-648-6836 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

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Aiken County can ask Aiken Regional Medical Centers in Aiken about financial help with hospital bills. The hospital says financial assistance and uninsured or underinsured discounts are available to eligible patients. Call the hospital at 803-641-5000 to ask about discounts and how to apply.

Estimated bill savings: about $0 a year

The Lower Savannah Council of Governments funds the Best Friend Express bus and Dial-A-Ride service in the urbanized part of Aiken County. A grant-funded ride program serves seniors 60 and older and people with disabilities who live and travel in that area, for medical visits and essential shopping. Book at least five business days ahead; the fare is $3.00 per one-way trip. Aiken Senior Life Services handles bookings and tickets: call 803-648-5447, ext. 2340.

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