With its proximity to the beautiful Atlantic Ocean, warm climate and near-endless recreation opportunities, Amelia Island and the surrounding Nassau County region is a popular retirement destination for seniors from across the country. In addition to offering countless ways to spend your leisure time, Nassau County also provides the senior community with easy access to the resources you’ll need to get settled in Northeast Florida and maintain a high quality of life here, including state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, local utility providers and other important community services.
Whether you are new to the area or you have a specific need and aren’t sure where to look for answers, Nassau County Council on Aging (NCCOA) is a great place to start. Founded in 1974 by local citizens, NCCOA is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose goal is to maintain and enrich the lives of older citizens throughout Nassau County. NCCOA’s programs enable those age 60 and older to live independently at home while also providing opportunities for socialization and activities geared toward the needs of seniors. We are a resource for education, information, referral, counseling and general assistance – for ALL seniors.
NCCOA delivers critical services to Nassau County seniors in several major categories: Adult Day HealthCare, Nutrition, Advocate Home Healthcare, Transportation (NassauTRANSIT), CHORE (small home repair), Support Groups, Educational Platforms and Volunteerism. We also operate two Life Centers in Fernandina Beach and Hilliard. These programs and services – and our ever-increasing donor base – resulted in NCCOA reaching more than 5,800 individuals in 2019, a 40% increase in people served over the previous year.
Life Centers
Seniors who enjoy group fitness, want to get together with friends and learn a new skill, or are just looking to socialize can visit one of NCCOA’s Life Centers. With one center located in Fernandina Beach and another in nearby Hilliard, there are ample opportunities to find your Zen in a chair yoga class, learn all about digital photography, join a support group, attend a history lecture or even take up tap dancing. In addition to SilverSneakers and senior health workshops, the Fernandina Beach Life Center also has a media lounge and computer lab.
Adult Day HealthCare Program
The only one of its kind in Northeast Florida, NCCOA’s Adult Day HealthCare Program – also known as “The Club” – provides respite for caregivers and offers their loved ones a safe and secure environment complete with therapeutic activities. Licensed by the State of Florida, the program specializes in Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias and offers families an affordable alternative to the rising costs of long-term care. The Club is supervised by a licensed nurse and Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP).
Meals on Wheels
NCCOA’s Meals on Wheels program delivers nutritious meals and provides an opportunity for conversation with local homebound seniors. Meals on Wheels for Pets provides pet food and supplies to seniors’ companion animals.
Advocate Home Healthcare
For NCCOA members who want to age in place in their own homes, Advocate Home Healthcare provides non-medical, in-home services related to daily living activities such as personal care, respite, homemaking and companion services. Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Home Health Aides may also accompany members to appointments and activities.
NassauTRANSIT
The public transportation system in Nassau County, NassauTRANSIT provides both scheduled public bus and registered paratransit services. Our public bus service has convenient stops across the county between Hilliard and Fernandina Beach, at River City Marketplace and in downtown Jacksonville. The Island Hopper bus provides local public transit service around Fernandina Beach. The fare for scheduled public bus service is only $1 per boarding with no charge for transfers. Registered paratransit is available to all qualifying county residents. Advance reservations are required for paratransit service and the fare is only $2 per boarding. All vehicles are wheelchair accessible.
Senior Life Magazine
Senior Life is NCCOA’s quarterly print publication. The magazine is designed to inform, motivate, educate, communicate and elevate awareness of NCCOA and how the organization meets the needs of seniors in Nassau County. You may also download the latest issue from NCCOA’s website.
Senior Resource Directory
For those seeking local service providers – geared toward seniors – NCCOA’s Senior Resource Directory is an online repository of valuable programs and resources. Contact information for housing and healthcare, job opportunities and legal assistance – and more – is available on NCCOA’s website.
Nassau County is home to breathtaking beaches, amazing weather, and a thriving senior community. The Nassau County Council on Aging is dedicated to making sure you or your loved one get the most out of your retirement here. Whether you need a dentist, a financial adviser, or a place to meet other seniors for coffee and conversation, the NCCOA can help connect you with the right resources, and quickly.
