CARE GIVER INFORMATION

It's ironic but many people spend so much time caring for a loved one they don't recognize themselves as being a caregiver. So, if you know you are a caregiver and are seeking answers to questions, you're already on the right track.

The term "caregiver" refers to anyone who provides assistance to someone else who needs it. This person in need could be a husband who has Alzheimer's disease, a mother with cancer or a friend or neighbor who has suffered a stroke.

Are you a caregiver?

If you are helping an older family member or friend who can no longer manage on his or her own...if you take the older person to medical appointments or shopping...if you help with personal needs such as dressing or bathing...if you help with financial matters such as paying the bills or managing the checkbook...then you are a caregiver.

A caregiver can be anyone:

• Seniors taking care of their spouses.
• Children or grandchildren taking care of their parents or grandparents.
• Neighbors or friends taking care of older adults living down the street.
• Grandparents taking care of grandchildren.

THE LYONS TOWNSHIP RESOURCE CENTER IS:

Age Options
111 West Harris Avenue LaGrange, Illinois 60525
708-354-1323 Fax: 708-354-0282
E-mail: info@swscoa.org Web: www.ageoptions.org

It is not only OK to ask for help --- it’s important!

The center can help you locate such services as...

• Adult day service for the senior citizen and respite services for the caregiver
• Individual counseling and support groups
• Services that help senior citizens remain in their homes:
o Home-delivered meals
o Assistance in housekeeping
o Home modification
o Assistance finding assistive devices
o Training, counseling and emotional support
o Transportation services
• Financial information and services
• Legal services
• Caregiver training
• Case management assistance
• Employment programs

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where do I call if I am not satisfied with the services I am receiving?

- Contact your local Area Agency on Aging - Southwest Suburban Center on Aging

• Where do I go if I need help paying for services?

-See the Community Care Program page at www.state.il.us/aging and contact Southwest Suburban Center on Aging for more information.

• How can I get services for an older relative if I do not live in Illinois?

-Contact the Southwest Suburban Center on Aging and inquire about services. You may also contact the Illinois Department on Aging Senior HelpLine Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. CST Toll-free within Illinois: 1-800-252-8966, 1-888-206-1327 (TTY) Outside of Illinois: 217-524-6911.

• How can I get training and/or education on caregiving issues?

-Inquire at the Southwest Suburban Center on Aging for educational opportunities available to you.

• How can I get information on what services are available in my area of the state?

-The Southwest Suburban Center on Aging can provide this information.

• Where can I get help with transportation services?

-See the Transportation Information Section on our site or contact the Southwest Suburban Center on Aging.

• Where can I get information about long term care (such as nursing homes, skilled living facilities, or assisted living)?

-Inquire at the Southwest Suburban Center on Aging. In addition, see the Housing and Nursing Homes section of the "Web Resources" page.

• What can I do if I just need a couple hours for myself or my family?

-Inquire at the Southwest Suburban Center on Aging about respite care.

• What do I do if I need services right now?

-Contact the Department on Aging Senior HelpLine
Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
CST Toll-free within Illinois: 1-800-252-8966, 1-888-206-1327 (TTY)
Outside of Illinois: 217-524-6911 or contact the Southwest Suburban Center on Aging for the best option for your situation.

Sergeant
Mark Goyer

Officer
Chrystal Steffan

Phone: 708.458.3388
police@bedfordparkpd.com