Public Resources for Aging, Disability, Caregiving & Social Services
Public links and phone numbers for older adults, adults with disabilities, caregivers, and families in Chicago, Illinois, and beyond.
Aging & Caregiver Support
Chicago Department of Family and Support Services - Office Phone: 312-743-0300 | Information Line: 312-744-4016
Illinois Department on Aging - Office Phone: 217-524-6911 | Information Line: 800-252-8966
Medicare Guide Program: as described by the Alzheimers Association. Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) is a free Medicare program. Also see the FAQ’s: Frequently Asked Questions
Medicare PACE Program: Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is a Medicare and/or Medicaid comprehensive medical and social services program available in some states.
Legal Help
Center for Disability & Elder Law — Phone: 312-376-1880
Legal Aid Chicago — Office Phone: 312-341-1070 | Information Line: 800-824-4050
Health Insurance & Public Benefits
Get Covered Illinois (IL’s official health insurance marketplace) — Phone: 866-311-1119
Medicaid / Illinois Healthcare and Family Services
Medicare : 1-800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227) TTY users: 877-486-2048
Social Security Administration (SSA) — Hotline: 1-800-772-1213. Available between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. SSA Office Locator: https://www.ssa.gov/locator
Disability & Independent Living
Access Living: Chicago-based disability rights and independent living organization.
Equip for Equality:Illinois’ protection and advocacy organization for people with disabilities.
The Arc of Illinois: Advocacy, education, and support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
Community Alternatives Unlimited is an Independent Service Coordination agency in the north region of Chicago that coordinates state-funded services, case management, and pre-admission screening for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Community Service Options (CSO) provides service coordination, advocacy, and support for individuals with disabilities in the south region of Chicago.
Housing for People with Disabilities & Older Adults
Community Resource Navigation
211 Metro Chicago / United Way 211: Call 2 1 1
General social service navigation for food, housing, utilities, transportation, mental health, caregiver support, and other community needs.
Safety & Protection
If there is immediate danger or a medical emergency: Call 911.
If there is a mental health crisis: Call or text 988.
If you are worried about abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an older adult or adult with disabilities in IL, contact Illinois Adult Protective Services — Hotline: 800-252-8966 | Information Line: 866-800-1409
If you are overwhelmed by decisions, appointments, discharge planning, home care, or family communication, A Calmer Journey may be able to help you think through next steps.
Disclaimer: A Calmer Journey makes reasonable efforts to keep this page updated, but public programs, eligibility rules, phone numbers, and websites may change. Please confirm information directly with the listed organization.
