In today’s competitive job market, many older adults are discovering that finding employment isn’t always easy. A recent survey by AARP found that 65% of workers aged 50 and older believe it would be difficult to find a job, with age discrimination cited as a primary concern.
At the same time, more seniors are choosing to remain in the workforce. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, labor force participation among adults age 65 and older has steadily increased for decades, driven by both financial needs and the desire to stay active and engaged.
One organization making a meaningful difference is Seniors Helping Seniors® Mid Carolina in Rock Hill.
A Unique Approach: Seniors Caring for Seniors
Seniors Helping Seniors® Mid Carolina is part of a nationwide network dedicated to helping older adults maintain independence at home — while also providing employment opportunities to seniors in their communities.
Owner and Director Tisa Mullis says the model stands apart from traditional home care.
“It isn’t your traditional homecare. Our hiring strategy is about bringing seniors from diverse backgrounds so they can provide unique services beyond the traditional standard of care. We’re continuously searching for opportunities to elevate the lives of our seniors and focus on what brings them joy.”
The Mid Carolina office employs approximately 40 team members, including many part-time senior caregivers who bring decades of life experience, empathy, and understanding to their roles.
“I am all in on the mission of hiring seniors to care for other seniors,” Mullis said. “The number one quality we look for is the intrinsic joy they receive from serving another person.”
The Value Older Workers Bring
By focusing on hiring older adults, Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care delivers exceptional value to both clients and caregivers.
“We genuinely look at the value of each individual and what they bring to the table,” Mullis explained. “When we hire seniors, we gain their life experience, their compassion, and a high level of trust. I know we’re delivering the best value to our clients.”
This approach also helps address a major challenge many older adults face: finding employers willing to give them a chance.
Meaningful Work and Personal Fulfillment
For many caregivers, joining Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care provides more than just income — it provides purpose.
Tania Feemster, a 59-year-old retired nurse, returned to the workforce as a caregiver.
“This gives me the opportunity to still work, make a little money, and help seniors. They’ve always had a special place in my heart,” she said.
Similarly, 77-year-old caregiver Sally Russell found fulfillment after struggling to find employment elsewhere.
“It’s very fulfilling. I love the people I work with,” Russell said. “They need to appreciate that age is not always a detriment.”
Both caregivers say they are grateful to work for an organization that recognizes the value of older adults.
Addressing a Growing Need
As America’s population continues to age, the need for compassionate, reliable in-home care continues to grow. Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care meets this need while also creating meaningful employment opportunities.
The model creates a powerful win-win:
- Seniors receive compassionate care from someone who understands their stage of life
- Older adults gain rewarding employment and purpose
- Communities benefit from stronger connections and support
Changing the Narrative Around Aging and Employment
Tisa Mullis hopes more employers will reconsider assumptions about older workers.
“You never know what unique talents and skills seniors might bring. Employers should keep an open mind and explore the possibilities instead of focusing on age.”
Seniors Helping Seniors® Mid Carolina is proud to be part of a movement that recognizes the tremendous value older adults bring to the workforce — and to each other.
A Mission That Makes a Difference
At its heart, Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care is about connection, dignity, and purpose.
By empowering older adults to care for one another, the organization is:
- Helping seniors remain independent
- Providing meaningful employment
- Strengthening communities
And most importantly, proving that age is not a barrier — it’s an asset.