By 2030, the aging population will reach 1.8 million in the state of South Carolina, according to MUSC Health. Every year in March, the MUSC Senior Expo is presented in partnership with the Trident Area Agency on Aging to share information about Lowcountry resources available to seniors.
The Center for Healthy Aging at MUSC is dedicated to promoting innovative and top-notch interprofessional education, research and clinical care in geriatrics. Their purpose and mission are to extend and enhance the health and wellness of elderly individuals not only here in South Carolina but nationwide. The Expo provides over 150 resource outlets for seniors.
“The Senior Expo is crucial because it provides a centralized platform for seniors to access information, resources and services tailored to their needs,” said Tiffany R. Harrison, program coordinator of Center for Healthy Aging at MUSC.
The expo serves as an opportunity for seniors to learn about various aspects of aging, health, wellness, financial planning, legal services, community programs and more. Additionally, it promotes socialization and allows seniors to get out and meet other individuals like themselves. This is important because there are times when seniors may feel isolated or lonely.
Attending the Senior Expo offers numerous benefits both for seniors and their families, including the opportunity to access information about healthcare services, insurance options and Medicare. Complimentary health screenings and assessments are also available. They can learn about senior living facilities, retirement communities and assisted living options, as well as discover programs and activities designed for seniors, such as fitness classes, social clubs and volunteering opportunities. Additionally, they can obtain advice on estate planning, wills and other legal matters. And of course, it provides a chance to connect with other seniors and build a supportive network.
“As individuals transition into their senior years, there are several important considerations to keep in mind,” Harrison said. These include:
- Prioritizing health and wellness. This is done through exercise, balanced nutrition and preventive health care.
- Planning for retirement. Even though this should be taken into consideration during our 20s, life happens. Planning for retirement includes financial management, pension benefits and Social Security.
- Creating or updating legal documents. Remember to always have your will, trust and executors of state updated. Have these conversations and inform your family of what you are doing and what you want done. Don’t let the will speak for you.
- Staying socially engaged and maintaining relationships with friends, family and the community.
- Remaining mentally active through continuous learning, hobbies and stimulating activities. The mind is a terrible thing to waste. Stay productive. Keep active. Challenge yourself to learn new things.
- Considering housing options and making necessary adjustments to living arrangements as needed. Don’t let this process overwhelm you. Start touring facilities or investigate home aides. This transition can be expensive. You want to take the necessary precautions, so you know what housing options you can afford.
Even though the Senior Expo is an annual event, and the next one isn’t until March 2025, contact the Center for Healthy Aging at MUSC to start inquiring about what programs and benefits you have access to.
For more information, visit medicine.musc.edu/departments/centers/aging.
By Maurice J. Frazier