Resources for Seniors in Illinois

Aging into one’s golden years is an exciting point in one’s life. Post-retirement is the perfect time to travel, try new hobbies, and find a new perspective on life.

However, as one ages, one may need more assistance than ever. Medical and financial problems bring new challenges to overcome. Finding resources for seniors might be overwhelming, especially when topics such as transportation, meals, and housing come into play.

If you need resources for seniors in Illinois but aren’t sure where to start, continue reading.

Illinois Department on Aging

At its core, the Illinois Department of Aging (or IDoA) is designed to advocate for older Illinoisans and their caregivers. They offer support through a variety of programs, including:

• Benefit Access Program: provides two benefits for seniors’ transportation—a license plate fee discount and free rides on fixed-route transit systems.
• Illinois Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program: a trained professional visits long-term care facilities to monitor conditions and care.
• Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP): a health insurance counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries, as well as their caregivers.
• Community Care Program: offers in-home care to seniors who require non-medical home care.

IDoA also offers a directory of agencies, organizations, and support groups from which Illinois seniors and their caregivers can benefit.

Office of the Illinois Secretary of State

This office does more than offer vehicular, business, and government licensure to Illinois citizens. In addition, they provide services specifically designed for seniors.

• Homebound State ID Card Program: bedridden individuals and people with disabilities can obtain a state ID card without traveling to a Secretary of State Facility.
• Hard of Hearing Services: those who are hard of hearing can receive the assistance of an interpreter when applying for a license.
• Super Seniors: seniors can undergo a license renewal, Rules of the Road instruction, and vision screening exam all at once. They can also obtain non-expiring licenses over the age of 65.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development can aid seniors with low-cost buying, renting, and other housing services. This government agency also helps with:

• Home Counseling
• Financing home improvements
• Housing services
• Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs

Illinois Department of Human Resources

For many seniors, remaining independent is difficult once transportation becomes an issue. Thankfully, the Illinois Department of Human Resources has a service database that provides counseling and support to older adults. It also includes services such as counseling and support for seniors.

Assistance in your home

If you are an Illinois senior who struggles with the activities of daily living, Home Care Powered by AUAF can help. Our caregivers allow you to remain independent in your home by assisting with the tasks that you struggle with. Our primary care services include:

• Personal care
• Meal preparation
• Medication reminders and management
• Light housekeeping and laundry
• Companionship
• And more!

To learn more about our home care program, call us at 773-274-9262. Finally, you can take your life back into your own hands.