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.

Uniform Assessment Tool

The Department of Healthcare and Family Services, in conjunction with the Department on Aging, the Department of Human Services and the Governor's Office of Management and Budget, has issued a request for information regarding services for a Uniform Assessment Tool for those seeking assistance with long term supports and services. Stakeholders and vendors may respond by going to the Illinois Procurement Bulletin website and using the reference number 22030915.

WELCOME SHIP

Pursuant to Executive Order 13-1, the Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) transferred from the Illinois Department of Insurance to the Department on Aging effective April 1, 2013. SHIP activities align with the Department on Aging's mission to help older individuals maintain their health and independence while remaining in their homes and communities.

Health & Benefits

Influenza
People 65 and older are more vulnerable to influenza and its related complications. In fact, older adults account for approximately 90 percent of flu-related deaths and 60 percent of flu-related hospitalizations in the U.S. each year.

Individuals over 65 have two options for influenza vaccination to help protect against the flu. The traditional flu shot, as well as a higher dose flu shot designed specifically for this age group. Both vaccine options are covered by Medicare Part B with no copay.

For more information, talk to your health care provider and visit www.NCOA.org/Flu or www.flu.gov/.

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

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   News: 5/15/13 - Governor Quinn Proclaims May as Older Americans Month in Illinois 5/14/13 - State Dept on Aging Praise Residents and Staff of Long Term Care Facilities in Observance of Nursing Home Week 4/01/13 - State's Senior Health Insurance Program Moves to the Department on Aging 1/11/13 - Seniors warned about a scam to get cash 12/18/12 - Dept on Aging Offers Tips to Help Seniors Prepare For Winter 12/14/12 - Department on Aging honors advocates who assist older adults 12/12/12 - State Kicks off the Governor's Conference on Aging View more news

New & Updated Publications   New! Older Adult Services Act Annual Report, 2013. State Plan on Aging for FY 2013–2015. Updated! Senior Community Service Employment Program brochure (2010). Updated! B*SAFE: Bankers and Seniors Against Financial Exploitation brochures for Bankers and for Seniors (2010). New! Money Follows the Person brochure. Money Follows the Person Annual Report(HFS) Updated! Elder Abuse and Neglect Act and Related Laws booklet. Updated! Choices for Care book and brochure. Updated! Community Care Program brochure.

Did You Know?

• You can contact the Department's toll–free Senior HelpLine for free publications and additional information about aging services in Illinois.



• To report elder abuse, call the 24-hour, toll–free 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.