Did you know that May is Older Americans Month? That’s right! This month is ALL about our senior citizens. These people are the pillars of our families and communities and we recognize that. In fact, we’ve created services specifically for this group of residents so that they can have the best quality of life possible.

If you’re a senior citizen or have a senior in your life who you love, here are a few resources that you need to know about.

In-Home Aide

Our Department of Social Services (DSS) provides in-home help to older adults (age 60+) and adults who are living with disabilities (age 18+). Let our staff help you carry out your responsibilities to your elderly loved ones who need care and support.

To apply, call 704-432-1111 and let one of our social workers assess your needs and create a service plan just for you.

Need a Ride?

We’ll pick you up! Just because you’re not driving, doesn’t mean you’re not active. Many of our seniors need a lift from point A to point B. Our Mecklenburg Transportation System provides a convenient service just for that at only $1.50 per one-way trip.

Elderly Disabled Transportation Assistance – Adults age 60 and older, and disabled adults and children can ride with us to and from dialysis or chemotherapy.

Elderly General Purpose – Are you 60 or older and not in assisted living or a nursing home? We’ll pick you up and take you to your medical appointments, grocery store, or Park & Rec Senior Center. (You can also buy a $10 monthly CATS bus pass for this service)

Enhanced Mobility of Seniors & Individuals with Disabilities – This service is for adults age 65 and up or residents who are disabled. We’ll give you a lift to your medical facility, job or grocery store.

Qualified military veterans can also get free rides to and from Veterans Affairs hospitals in North Carolina as well as medical clinics. For Veterans Transportation, call 704-336-2102 or apply online.

Adult Day Care

For seniors who need a place to hang out during the day, DSS has adult day care and day health centers. Call or visit one of our nine locations for details. Financial assistance is available.

Senior Nutrition

Seniors gotta eat too! DSS’ Senior Citizens Nutrition Program (or Meals on Wheels) provides free balanced meals for homebound clients and mobile seniors age 60+ through the Congregate Meal, Home Delivered Meal and Supplemental Meal programs. Congregate meals are available at 19 locations throughout Mecklenburg County.

Through partnerships with the Humane Society of Charlotte and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Fire Department, our drivers are also able to provide additional services such as pet food and pet supply delivery to clients who have pets. They are also able to screen new clients for smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors which can be provided by your local fire department.

Senior Centers

For those who like to keep a sharp mind and healthy body, check out Park & Rec’s Senior Centers. Seniors age 55+ can visit one of three locations. If you’re looking to exercise, manage your arthritis or diabetes, or learn how to manage your retirement finances, our Senior Centers have everything you need! Call 980-314-1000 to learn more about locations and programs near you.

This month and year-round let’s celebrate our seniors and all their accomplishments and contributions that make our world a better place.