Frequently Asked Questions
Finding help for yourself or someone you care for can be a difficult task with a lot of questions. The best way to obtain answers to specific questions is to call AgeOptions at (708)383-0258 or (800)699-9043, and ask for an Information and Assistance Specialist.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we hear:
About AgeOptions:
Are there other agencies like AgeOptions?
Getting Help :
There are so many services. How do I begin?
Are there requirements for me to receive services?
Who monitors AgeOptions activities?
Do I have to pay for services that AgeOptions coordinates for me?
I am caring for an older adult. How can AgeOptions help me?
What is AgeOptions?
AgeOptions is a not-for-profit organization located in Oak Park, Illinois, that has served the older adults of suburban Cook County and their families as an Area Agency on Aging since 1974. We are authorized by the federal Older Americans Act and the Illinois Department on Aging as the Planning and Service Area for the 30 townships surrounding Chicago.
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What does AgeOptions do?
AgeOptions connects older adults with resources and options for care so they can have a full range of choices to address their individual needs. Our roles are to:
- Plan – Study the issues that affect the aging population and develop innovative programs to address those issues
- Fund – Distribute federal, state and other funds to a network of community-based service organizations and contractors
- Coordinate – Monitor the service organizations and contractors to ensure that high quality services are provided in an efficient, effective manner
- Advocate – Increase older adult services, benefits and programs by being a voice for the aging population to the government, policy makers and others
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How is AgeOptions funded?
AgeOptions receives and distributes funds from federal and state resources, including the U.S. Administration on Aging and Illinois Department on Aging. AgeOptions also benefits from corporate and foundational grants. Individual contributions from older adults, caregivers and individual supporters add to our funding. Additionally, AgeOptions partners with a number of charitable organizations that fund specific programs. Click here to see a list of our funding partners.
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Are there other agencies like AgeOptions?
Yes. When the Older Americans Act was passed, a nationwide network of senior service entities was formed. There are over 655 Area Agencies on Aging across the country sharing in the mission to plan and provide for the needs of older adults. Click here to find out about our national network.
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There are so many services. How do I begin?
Everything starts with a phone call. Contact AgeOptions at (708)383-0258 or (800) 699-9043. Ask for an Information and Assistance Specialist who will answer your questions, work with you to determine options that meet your needs, and connect you to services and programs in your community.
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Are there requirements for me to receive assistance?
If you are aged 60 or over, you have met the basic requirement. Some of our services have need- and resource-based requirements as well. If you are caregiving for an adult 60 or over, there is no age restriction. Our employment program is available to individuals aged 55 and over.
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Who monitors AgeOptions activities?
AgeOptions is governed by a Board of Directors composed of community professionals from many disciplines, who are in-tune with the needs and expectations of the aging population. They set our direction, establish policies, and manage and allocate resources. We also have an Advisory Council, with a majority of its members aged 60 and over. This group connects AgeOptions to the communities we serve, and keeps us up-to-date on the latest issues facing older adults.
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Do I have to pay for services that AgeOptions coordinates for me?
Some programs require co-pays for services arranged by our case coordination units. With all other services, donations are encouraged to help keep the programs running successfully. No qualifying individual will be denied service for inability or unwillingness to give a donation. There is no charge for information and assistance.
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I am caring for an older adult. How can AgeOptions help me?
You are not alone. Many people find themselves caring for parents, a spouse or older relative. Through our Caregiver Support Program, specialists are prepared to help connect caregivers with programs and services in your community. Click here to find out more.
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