|
The Berwyn Cicero Council on Aging is committed to preserving the dignity of all older adults and their families, being an advocate for older adults and their families in this community. It is committed to assisting older adults and their families with application for state and federal programs that are available to them.
Information and Assistance
The Intake Specialist is knowledgeable of all programs and services available to residents of Berwyn and Cicero and can provide information and referrals about available private, public and voluntary services and resources. Our specialist can also refer callers to agencies and programs outside the Berwyn/Cicero area. More importantly the Intake Specialist can assess the problems and capacities of individuals and make sure they are linked to the appropriate available service provider.
Case Management
The Social Services department has professional case managers who are responsible for individual and family assessments that determine their eligibility for various services and programs. Some services require an in person interview as well as a comprehensive in-home assessment to determine an individual’s need. Case managers monitor their clients services and can help older adults and their families in decision-making situations.
Many of the services and programs offered have complicated and strict eligibility criteria. All reports and cases are kept confidential. Some of the services and programs that can be provided are listed below:
- Home Delivered Meal Program
- Chore Housekeeping– light housekeeping
- Community Care Program
- Homemaker – housekeeping and personal care
- Adult Day Services
- Elder Abuse Intervention
Home Delivered Meal Program
Community volunteers deliver hot, nutritious meals to home bound older adults. A case manager is required to conduct an in-home assessment to evaluate need and eligibility for this service.
Caregiver Support
The Caregiver Specialist focuses on assisting individuals who are caring for older adults. Assistance available for caregivers consists of providing useful information, community referrals, and caregiver education and training that will help families in their caregiver roles. Additional services can include respite services (temporary relief of caregiving responsibilities) and eligibility review for supplemental income programs.
The Caregiver Specialist also supports the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren program. This service provides grandparents raising grandchildren under the age of 18 locate support groups, financial programs, and medical coverage for grandchildren, guardianship, legal services, and provides information and assistance.
Eligibility: Anyone providing informal assistance (unpaid) to persons 60 and older or grandparents (60 and older) raising grandchildren, and is a Berwyn or Cicero resident.
Senior Advocate
The Senior Advocate is a trained individual who can provide assistance to those that may be eligible for public benefits. Some of these benefits are:
- Social Security
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Low Income Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)
- Illinios Cares Rx (formerly Senior Care)
- Food Stamps/Illinois Link Card
- Medicare Part D
Legal Services
The Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago (LAFMC) provides free legal assistance with various issues, concerns and paperwork. The attorney is available Tuesday afternoons and appointments are required. Services are also available for Spanish speaking clients. Call 773-321-7900 to make an appointment.
Through the cooperation of an area attorney simple Will preparation is provided for a minimal fee. Power of Attorney forms for Healthcare & Property can also be completed. The attorney is available one Thursday a month and will only see clients who have scheduled appointments.
Contact: Call 708-447-2448 to make an appointment.
Volunteer Program
There are many opportunities that exist at the Berwyn Cicero Council on Aging. Volunteers are trained to answer phones, take appointments, assist the senior advocate, and possibly to assist with the telephone reassurance program. Throughout the year the agency partners with local schools, church groups and corporate volunteer groups to provide meaningful activities for older adults in a safe and nurturing environment.
|
