For more information on these individual programs and services, including basic documentation and qualification criteria, please continue reading below.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Caregiver Support Program

Provides education, training, coaching, peer support, respite resources, and care coordination for family caregivers of eligible Veterans. The program helps caregivers understand available VA benefits and services while connecting them with local Caregiver Support Coordinators and community resources. Depending on the Veteran's eligibility, caregivers may also qualify for additional assistance through the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC).

Basic Eligibility:

• Family members or caregivers of eligible Veterans
• Some services are available to all Veteran caregivers
• Certain benefits require the Veteran to meet additional VA eligibility requirements

Common Documentation Requested:

• Government-issued Photo ID
• Veteran's identifying information
• VA health care or benefit information
• Medical information (when applicable)
• VA application forms for specialized caregiver programs

U.S. Administration for Community Living – Eldercare Locator

Is a free nationwide information and referral service administered by the U.S. Administration for Community Living. The service connects older adults, caregivers, and families with local agencies that provide meals, transportation, home care, respite services, legal assistance, benefits counseling, and other aging resources. The Eldercare Locator does not directly provide services but helps individuals identify programs available within their community.

Basic Eligibility:

• Older adults seeking local aging services
• Family members and caregivers
• No eligibility requirements to receive information and referrals

Common Documentation Requested Later by Referrals:

• Government-issued Photo ID
• Proof of residence
• Income verification (if applicable)
• Medicare or Medicaid information (if applicable)
• Social Security number (if applicable)

Illinois Department on Aging – Senior HelpLine

Connects older adults, caregivers, and family members with state and local aging programs throughout Illinois. Specialists provide information on caregiver support, home-delivered meals, transportation, in-home services, benefits counseling, emergency response programs, adult day services, and other community resources. The HelpLine also assists callers in identifying programs that best meet their individual needs.

Basic Eligibility:

• Illinois older adults
• Family members and caregivers
• No eligibility requirements to receive information and referrals

Common Documentation Requested Later by Referrals:

• Government-issued Photo ID
• Proof of Illinois residence
• Income verification (if applicable)
• Medicare or Medicaid information (if applicable)
• Social Security number (if applicable)

City of Chicago Department of Family and Support Services – Senior Services

Connects older adults with programs that promote health, independence, and quality of life. Available services may include congregate and home-delivered meals, transportation assistance, wellness programs, benefits counseling, senior centers, caregiver resources, and case management. Services are provided directly or through community partner organizations across Chicago.

Basic Eligibility:

• Chicago residents seeking senior services
• Individual programs maintain their own eligibility requirements
• No eligibility requirements to receive information and referrals

Common Documentation Requested Later by Individual Programs:

• Government-issued Photo ID
• Proof of Chicago residence
• Income verification (if applicable)
• Medicare or Medicaid information (if applicable)
• Age verification

AgeOptions

Is the designated Area Agency on Aging serving suburban Cook County. The organization coordinates and funds programs that help older adults, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities remain healthy, independent, and engaged in their communities. Services include caregiver support, home-delivered meals, benefits counseling, transportation, legal assistance, care coordination, and referrals to local providers.

Basic Eligibility:

• Older adults, caregivers, or individuals with disabilities living in suburban Cook County
• No eligibility requirements to receive information and referrals
• Individual programs may have additional eligibility requirements

Common Documentation Requested Later by Referrals:

• Government-issued Photo ID
• Proof of residence
• Income verification (if applicable)
• Medicare or Medicaid information (if applicable)
• Age verification

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago – Senior Care

Provides care coordination, in-home support, caregiver assistance, and case management services that help older adults remain safely and independently in their homes. Staff work with seniors and their families to assess individual needs, develop care plans, and connect clients with available community resources and supportive services. Many services are available regardless of religious affiliation.

Basic Eligibility:

• Older adults seeking supportive services
• Family members or caregivers seeking assistance
• Individual programs maintain their own eligibility requirements

Common Documentation Requested:

• Government-issued Photo ID
• Proof of residence
• Medical information (if applicable)
• Income verification (if applicable)
• Emergency contact information

Metropolitan Family Services – Senior Services

Provides counseling, caregiver support, protective services, and family assistance programs for older adults and caregivers throughout the Chicago area. Services help older adults maintain independence while supporting family caregivers through education, counseling, care coordination, and referrals to additional community resources. The organization also provides assistance to grandparents and older relatives serving as primary caregivers for children.

Basic Eligibility:

• Older adults and family caregivers
• Individuals seeking caregiver support or senior services
• Individual programs maintain their own eligibility requirements

Common Documentation Requested:

• Government-issued Photo ID
• Proof of residence
• Income verification (if applicable)
• Medical information (if applicable)
• Documentation related to caregiving responsibilities (when applicable)