Lancaster County Office of Aging

Lancaster County Office of Aging provides a variety of services to older persons and their families in the most appropriate and least restrictive manner. Available services address a wide spectrum of needs and are administered in a manner that respects the dignity and independence of those served. General services provided by the agency include personal care services, referral to available resources through the agency's Information & Referral unit, employment programs for those 55 and over, and protective services. Office volunteers help agency staff with a variety of tasks including filing, shredding, data entry and more. Specialized volunteer programs include the PA Medi Program which assists clients with health insurance and Medicare issues. Volunteer Ombudsmen interact with residents of personal care homes and nursing facilities, making them aware of their rights and reporting any concerns to staff ombudsmen. Volunteer opportunities are available for both individuals and groups. Assignments can be on-going, one-time, or sporadic depending on the client's need and the volunteer's preference. A number of volunteers assist with two seasonal programs; a chicken BBQ delivery and Senior Games in May. Volunteer opportunities require a minimal time commitment and offer great flexibility and a high level of satisfaction.

Lancaster County Office of Aging was founded in 1974. The agency was formed in compliance to the Older Americans Act of 1965. Throughout the course of its three decades, the program has changed and evolved to better meet the government guidelines and the needs of older persons in Lancaster County and city. The Volunteer Department has also evolved since its inception in 1977. Initially begun to meet the socialization needs of homebound seniors, the department expanded to provide help with laundry, shopping and cleaning when those services could no longer be included in the budget. Volunteers also provided limited assistance with transportation to medical and dental appointments, as well as helping with minor home repairs and maintenance.  The Volunteer Department seeks to meet client needs while insuring the assignment is fulfilling for the volunteer.