Situated just between Atlanta and the Blue Ridge Mountains, Cherokee County is a little-known gem of a place to retire. It offers suburban convenience and scenic views as well as easy access to Atlanta without all the traffic. Enjoy stunning waterfronts, plenty of greenery, and no shortage of elegant mom-and-pop restaurants. Check out Peach State Orchids in Woodstock, then take the grandkids to a movie just down the road. Or hop on I-75 for a quick ride to Cobb County to see the Atlanta Braves play. No matter what you like to do, there’s something here for you — and your kids, grandkids, and friends. Here are the best senior resources in Cherokee County, Georgia.
Health and Fitness
The right Medicare policy can determine what healthcare you are eligible for, as well as the total cost of medical care. Don’t make the decision alone. For help with Medicare questions and prescription drug coverage, contact GeorgiaCares, which also offers support for people applying for Medicaid. You can also set up an appointment by following this link.
Cherokee County’s Meals on Wheels program offers socialization and healthy meals to low-income seniors. Connect to the program here. Another option is the Congregate Meal Program. Isolation and loneliness undermine seniors’ health. Congregate offers an antidote. Join them weekdays for a welcoming community meal and a senior-friendly activity.
The Division of Aging Services offers a wide range of dementia and senior resources in Cherokee County including a comprehensive dementia plan.
Home Care
About half of seniors say they need help with at least one daily task. But that doesn’t mean you have to be dependent on others or ignore your daily needs. The right in-home help can support seniors’ efforts to live independently while alleviating family caregiver stress. Check out these options for finding the right support:
- Georgia Association for Home Health Agencies
- Georgia Tech Tools for Life (technological solutions for disabilities)
- The Division of Aging Services list of home- and community-based services
Georgia’s Community Care Services Program supports seniors’ efforts to remain at home by paying loved ones to care for them. Learn more about the program here.
Caregiver Support
Caregiving can be deeply meaningful. It can also be isolating, frustrating, and overwhelming. Cherokee County Senior Services offers a wide range of resources, including a caregiver support program. To access this program, call 770-345-3297 or email strout@cherokeega.gov. The Atlanta Area Regional Commission’s Aging Division connects caregivers to legal, medical, and other support services.
The State of Georgia Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator’s Office offers specialized support to people with disabilities, including seniors with special needs such as mobility impairments or dementia. Some resources that might help include:
- Caregiver Action Network message boards
- The Well Spouse Association
- The Family Caregiver Alliance’s Georgia Family Care Navigator
Caregivers who are concerned about the care their loved one is receiving, need help supporting a loved one who refuses appropriate care, or suspect elder abuse should contact Adult Protective Services.
Community Programs
There’s plenty to do in Cherokee County, Woodstock, and their surrounding areas. Visit one of the City of Woodstock’s many parks. Or check out the William G. Long Senior Center, which boasts an ever-changing roster of senior-friendly activities. For seasonal activities, check out the Cherokee County Senior Services activity calendar.
Retirement doesn’t have to mean spending all day at home. Pad your retirement fund with a little extra income. Seniors looking for a job should visit the Division of Aging Services Senior Community Service Employment Program. For senior health programs, workshops, and even volunteer opportunities, check out Georgia HealthMatters.
Other Services
Many seniors have legal concerns, such as determining Medicaid eligibility or ensuring they leave their loved ones an inheritance. The Elderly Legal Assistance Program and Atlanta Legal Aid Society can help.
Some seniors are still acting as parents to grandchildren or other family members. For help, visit the Division of Aging Services Grandparents Raising Grandchildren page.
The CATS bus offers transportation to Cherokee County Senior Services programs five days a week. A handful of private organizations, such as Comfort Keepers, offer additional transportation services for a fee.
One of the most valuable senior resources in Cherokee County is a great place to live. The Arbor Company offers comfortable, luxurious senior living with gourmet dining, plenty to do, and support for seniors and those who love them. We’re on a mission to transform every retirement into a joyful, meaningful experience. To learn more, visit us or give us a call.
