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SENIOR HELP & RESOURCE INFORMATION

I-CARE INFORMATION
Seniors can call these numbers to reach I-CARE for information about Medicare and
its prescription drug program, or to talk to regional information, referral and assistance
specialist/caregiver (IR&A) advocates. You may also call your regional ombudsman to
report suspected abuse, neglect and/or exploitation of seniors, or to obtain information
on advance directives and living wills.

LT. GOERNOR’S COUNCIL ON AGING

• To have the Lt. Governor or a member of his staff speak to your civic or faith-based
senior group, please call us at the State House at 803-734-2080. Arrangements need
to be made well in advance, so please call as soon as you can and every effort will
be made to
accommodate your group. We receive a large number of requests, so please keep
that in mind as you call. We look forward to meeting with you.
• To arrange a State House tour, please call 803-734-2430
• To order U.S. or state flags that have flown over the State House, call our office at
803-734-2080.
• To receive electronic copies of the Lt. Governor’s updates to the Senior Community,
e-mail askus@aging.sc.gov and type “subscribe” in the message box.

LONG TERM CARE OMBUDSMEN PROGRAM
WHAT IS AN OMBUDSMAN?
Ombudsmen are advocates available to help residents and their families by
advocating to protect their health, safety, welfare, and rights. An ombudsman works
to increase the responsiveness of organizations to the people he or she serves. A
Long Term Care Ombudsman seeks to improve the quality of life and quality of care
of the residents of long term care facilities.

A LONG TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN:
• Investigates and works to resolve problems or complaints.
• Identifies problem areas in long term care and advocates or mediates for change.
• Provides information about long term care and related services.
• Promotes resident, family, and community involvement in long term care.
• Educates the community about the needs of long term care residents.
• Visits long term facilities to talk to residents and monitor conditions.