Frequently Asked Questions

We assist with all of these questions and more! Help is just a phone call away! (815) 758-6550

Where do I start with getting my family member some help in their home?

Call our office at 815-758-6550 to request a care coordination appointment. One of our Care Coordinators will complete an assessment and offer options for services. More information about our Care Coordination program can be found HERE.

I may not be able to afford to pay for my medications this month. What do I do?

One of our Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) counselors will be happy to discuss available options to assist you with medication costs. Call our office at 815-758-6550 and request to speak with a SHIP counselor. To learn about SHIP and other assistance our counselors can provide click HERE.

Where can I find good, affordable medical equipment like a walker or cane?

Mary’s Lending Closet is a local organization which provides durable medical equipment to borrow as available. You can call Mary’s Lending Closet at 815-895-4477. If prescribed by your doctor, Medicare also covers some durable medical equipment. You can contact your doctor to make this request. To learn more about what durable medical equipment Medicare covers click HERE.

Where do you begin with looking for affordable senior housing?

There are several options for affordable housing in DeKalb County. These options include the Housing Choice Voucher Program, privately owned subsidized housing, and Public Housing. Additionally, you can find other local options within our housing guides. Please contact our office at 815-758-6550 to request one of the guides.

Where can I find a local food pantry? What if I am too frail to go myself?

At Elder Care Services, we have our Get Me to Monday food pantry which provides 2-4 days of non-perishable food. DeKalb County is fortunate to have multiple food pantries that serve our community. Click here to access our list of area food pantries. Mobile food pantry options include the Grow Mobile and Box of Hope through DeKalb County Community Gardens (DCCG). Another option is a home delivered meal through the Meals on Wheels program from the Voluntary Action Center (VAC). Home delivery is available with some of these options. Please contact our office at 815-758-6550 if you have questions or have an immediate need.

Can I be the primary caregiver for my loved one? Are there resources for that?

There are some situations where family is able to become the primary caregiver for their loved one. These situations are unique and should be discussed with the participant’s Care Coordinator. To reach the Care Coordinator, please call our office at 815-758-6550. You can read more about the Care Coordination program HERE.

I am on a fixed income and I received a shut off notice for my utility, what do I do?

One of the first steps in getting your utility services (heat or electric) reconnected is to reach out to the utility company to request information on what option you have with them. If you are unable to reach your utility company or they do not have an option that works for your budget, you can contact Community Contacts, Inc. at 847-697-4400. If you have to leave a message make sure to say your name, that you have received a disconnection notice and leave a return phone number. If you are needing utility assistance for future bills, please call the number above or click HERE to schedule an appointment with Community Contacts, Inc. for LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program).

I am feeling lonely and isolated but I want to stay at home. Can you help?

Absolutely! Our Information and Assistance or Care Coordination teams are happy to link you with services and resources to help you feel more connected and less lonely. Elder Care Services offers support groups for caregivers and individuals living with chronic illness, Healthy IDEAS (a mood improvement program), and to other community resources. Most of these options are available by phone or internet. Please contact our office at 815-758-6550 for more information. Our mission is to help you be safe, secure and supported within the community.