The Illinois Department on Aging helps older people live independently in their own homes and communities. As the population ages, services and programs for older people must evolve as well because longevity means more when quality of life is enhanced. To best serve older adults, we must also serve their families and teach younger people about the realities of aging, so many of our programs have an intergenerational emphasis. Working with Area Agencies on Aging, community-based service providers and older people themselves, the Illinois Department on Aging strives to improve quality of life for current and future generations of older Illinoisans.
Medicare Open Enrollment
Medicare Open Enrollment starts October 15 and ends December 7. It's the time of the year when all Medicare beneficiaries can change their health and prescription coverage for 2013. Review your plan and compare costs to find the coverage that best meets your needs. For assistance:
Visit the Medicare Plan Finder to compare current coverage with other options available in your area
Review the Medicare & You 2013 handbook (mailed to Medicare beneficiaries in September)
Apply for Extra Help if you have limited income and resources to lower your Medicare Part D prescriptions drug costs
Find a Senior Health Assistance Program (SHAP) site near you or contact the Senior HelpLine at 1-800-252-8966, 1-888-206-1327 (TTY)
Health & Benefits |
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![Hot Thermometer](images/wnvbtn3.jpg) 2012 has proved to have a record-breaking number of cases of West Nile across the country, and the elderly are most at risk for adverse health complications if the virus is contracted. Please share these educational flyers about the West Nile Virus with your family, friends and neighbors.
Should you need more information regarding the West Nile Virus, please visit IDPH's West Nile virus website.
Are you looking for assistance? Find out what federal, state and local programs you may qualify for by visiting www.benefitscheckup.org. You may also download the booklet, State and Federal Programs for Older Adults (PDF).
Many Illinoisans with Medicare can save up to $1,320 each year by participating in Medicare Savings Programs. These programs may help pay Medicare premiums, so individuals can keep more of their social security checks. For an overview on applying for Medicare Savings Programs and a list of Frequently Asked Questions, visit Illinois Benefits. Complete application, print and mail
Rulemaking
Activity Update |
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The Department published its Regulatory Agenda on page 11510 of Issue 29 in Volume 36 of the Illinois Register on July 20, 2012.
NOTICE – A proposed amendment has been filed by the Department which affects Section 240.727 in Part 240 of the rules governing the Community Care Program under Title 89 of the Illinois Administrative Code. Depending on subsequent approval by the Federal government, this amendment will change the minimum score from 29 to 37 points on the Determination of Need form for an individual to be eligible for services under the Community Care Program as required by Public Act 97-689. This rule was published in the Illinois Register on page 9812 in Volume 36 on July 13, 2012.
Interested persons may submit written comments on proposed rulemaking projects within 45 days after the date of publication of the notice.
Illinois Rules are located on the Illinois General Assembly Web site under "Rules and Regulations: Administrative Rules."
To view other rules promulgated by the Illinois Department on Aging, see Statutes and Administrative Rules.
Press Releases |
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News:
10/24/12 - Department on Aging Announces Senior Hall of Fame Inductees, Presents Governor's Unique Achievement Awards
10/22/12 - State Calls Attention to the Residents of Long-Term Care in Observance of Residents Rights Month
10/15/12 - Medicare Part D Open-Enrollment Period Starts October 15; Department of Insurance Offers Free Counseling
9/14/12 - State Recognizes September as Healthy Aging Month;
Urges Seniors to Get Flu Shots
9/7/12 - State Praises Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
in honor of Grandparents Day Observance
8/10/12 - Department on Aging Invites Seniors and Their Families to Attend Activities at the Illinois State Fair
8/1/12 - Nominations for Senior Hall of Fame Awards Due August 20
View more news
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New & Updated Publications |
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Did You Know? |
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- You can contact the Department's tollfree Senior HelpLine for free publications and additional information about aging services in Illinois.
- To report elder abuse, call the 24-hour, tollfree Elder Abuse Hotline: 1-866-800-1409, 1-888-206-1327 (TTY).
- You may obtain information about services for senior citizens anywhere across the United States by contacting the Administration on Aging's Eldercare Locator Program homepage or calling toll free at 1-800-677-1116 (Voice & TTY).
- For information on how to improve site accessibility and readability, view the Illinois Information Technology Accessibility Act.
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