Seneca, South Carolina, is a small city in Oconee County, near the state’s western tip and just south of Lake Keowee. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly a quarter of the city’s 8,000 residents are age 65 or older. Residents here can enjoy the expansive green space of South Cove County Park with pleasant weather for much of the year. The town has two historic districts and a revitalized downtown area with new restaurants and shops. Convenient medical care is available at Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital and Seneca Health and Rehabilitation Center.
Assisted living care provides older adults a safe, secure setting where they can retain their independence while receiving help as needed. For example, staff members may assist with grooming, housekeeping, preparing meals, managing medications and other activities of daily living. According to the 2021 Genworth Cost of Care Survey, assisted living costs about $3,743 monthly in the Greenville metro area, where Seneca is located.
In this guide, find out how your family can fund the cost of care for a loved one. We’ll review strategies to save on these services and connect you with resources in the Seneca area.
Hundreds of thousands of American seniors utilize assisted living, a figure that is only growing. For these seniors, assisted living combines residential housing,assistance in daily activities, and some healthcare. These communities also strive to provide an atmosphere that is comfortable and engaging for their residents… Read More >
COVID-19 restrictions and rules for Assisted Living Facilities are typically set by the state – to see the rules in your state, you can read our guide to Assisted Living in South Carolina. Keep in mind that there may be other policies that communities put in place to protect their residents, so you should contact your local community for more information. Additionally, you can contact your local Area Agency on Aging to learn more – find contact information here.
Seneca residents who need assisted living care pay an average of $3,743, but this cost may vary per the facility’s location, services and amenities.
Seneca’s average rate is slightly above the state average of $3,612 but well below the national average of $4,500.
Other South Carolina cities have lower costs than those in Seneca. Spartanburg residents pay $3,600, slightly below South Carolina’s average monthly assisted living cost. Columbia’s costs are among the lowest, averaging $3,270 per month, but Sumter residents have the most affordable rate at $2,663 per month. Florence falls in the middle of the cost range at $3,456. On the other hand, Hilton Head Island ($4,500) and Myrtle Beach ($4,070) are far above the state average and closer to the national average.
Note: Data for Seneca, SC, was unavailable, so data for the nearest city, Greenville, SC, was used instead.
Since not everyone can afford to pay for assisted living out-of-pocket, it’s important to find alternative methods to help make assisted living more affordable. Some of these options include:
For more information about your options for making assisted living more affordable, visit our guide to Assisted Living in South Carolina.
Resource | Contact | Service |
Oconee County Veteran’s Affairs Office | (864) 638-4231 | The Oconee County VA Office provides personalized assistance for veterans who need help with their benefits, including medical care and assisted living coverage. You can connect with online resources, call for toll-free assistance or make an appointment to get help in person. You can also access van transportation to medical appointments. |
Senior Action | (864) 467-3660 | This nonprofit’s Greenville Chapter provides senior case management, medication delivery, light housekeeping, medical transport and other services for older adults. The facility features a wellness center with group fitness classes, help with financial planning, meals, clubs, games, art and music classes, help with technology and even a travel program. |
GetCareSC | (800) 868-9095 | On this South Carolina Department of Aging database, you can search for senior resources in your area. Categories include help with daily chores, medical supplies, meals, adult day care services, transportation and assisted living. Older adults can also find volunteer opportunities through GetCareSC. |
Appalachian Council of Governments Area Agency on Aging | (800) 434-3036 | The ACOG AAA provides help, information and referrals to local resources for seniors and their caregivers in Oconee County and the surrounding areas. Families can review information about assisted living facilities and report concerning conditions. Adults ages 50 and older can also sign up for area nutrition and social programs. |
Oconee Senior Center | (864) 885-1000 | Local seniors can access activities, meals, transportation and companionship at the Oconee Senior Center. This facility provides adult day services, fitness equipment, an indoor walking track, social events and exercise classes. |
Assisted Living Facilities in the Seneca area are required to follow a set of rules and regulations that are determined at the state level. For an overview of those rules and regulations, see the information below. For more specific information, talk with your local community or Area Agency on Aging.