Your Senior Advocate
Support Services
Your Senior Advocate
Janet Fryer , LCPC , supports older adults and their families in the community by face-to-face meetings and home , hospital and nursing home visits , depending on the need . There is no charge for her services , including assessments , counseling , referrals , notary services and help identifying financial assistance programs and applying . For those eligible , state , local and federal programs may pay for Medicare or Drug plan premiums , reduce drug co-pays , and reduce property taxes . Support and guidance are available for those who are homebound , lonely , coping with low vision , caring for a spouse or parent , or who need help considering options and making decisions . If you are concerned about a family member or older neighbor , give Janet a call at 847-810-4678 .
Social Services : Faith in Action
Trained and supervised volunteers can provide transportation , grocery shopping , social support , and caregiver respite , often forming a quality relationship with those they assist . Their partnership with Dickinson Hall will increase the depth of services offered to community members in need . To access their services , learn more , or explore volunteer opportunities for this much-needed organization , contact Janet or speak with Faith in Action directly at 847-721-8414 . For more information about Faith in Action visit www . selcfia . org .
Home Alone Group
Tuesday , May 8 & Wednesday , June 13 , 2:00 - 3:30 pm Here is a monthly opportunity for those living alone to share the triumphs and challenges of life with a group of friendly fellow travelers . In today ’ s world , many are somewhat isolated and have few chances to discuss day-to-day events , or significant choices . Studies have shown the positive impact that interpersonal relationships have on health and well-being . Come and give us a try , for laughter , support and good company .
Real Estate Assessment Exemption Workshop
Wednesday , May 9 , 10:00 am - Noon NOTE : Income eligibility has increased to $ 65,000 The Chief County Assessment Office and Township Assessors will be at DH to assist residents in completing the 2018 Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Application for taxes payable in 2019 , and to help taxpayers sign up for other appropriate exemptions . Residents will work with a staff member one-onone to complete necessary forms . Qualifications for the Assessment Freeze are 65 or older , own and live in the property for the past two years and an income of $ 65,000 or less . Bring your 2017 tax return , Social Security Statement ( SSA-1099 ) and proof of beneficiary if the house is held in a Trust . No appointment required .
Caregiver Support
One-on-one support is available to individuals caring for a loved one , even if that person does not live with you . Janet is available to meet with family caregivers here at Dickinson Hall , or in someone ’ s home . Call Janet at 847-810-4678 with questions , for referrals to local resources , or if you need to talk .
Information and Referral
We have put together lists of local resources and are happy to provide contact information on local professionals , social services , medical providers and other subjects . Call Janet at 847-810-4678 to request the local referrals . ( Note : We are not able to endorse any person , company , agency or facility ; these resources are for your convenience in contacting resources .)
Save Money on Your Car Registration
Ride Free on Transit if you earn less than $ 27,610 for an individual , or $ 36,635 for a couple . This requires an approved Benefits Access application , filed over the computer , which can take months to process . The Senior Advocate can help you apply right away , or three months before your current certificate expires . Seniors who do not meet income requirements can still get discounted senior fares on Metra and the RTA .
Special Guest Scholarship Program
If you are interested in enjoying our programs , but finances are tight , Dickinson Hall offers a scholarship for in-district residents with limited incomes . Those eligible for Benefits Access will qualify and we have also increased the eligibility income levels so that additional residents may qualify . Call Janet at 847-810-4678 to discuss your situation . All inquiries are confidential .
Help for Unexpected Expenses
Financially-strapped older adults in our service area facing unexpected home repairs or with other short-term financial challenges may speak with Janet , the Senior Advocate , about applying for assistance . Requests are confidential and considered on a case-by-case basis .
Medical Lending Closet at Dickinson Hall
Wheelchairs , walkers , rollators , bath seats , grabbers , canes and commodes - we lend available equipment on a short-term basis to Lake Forest and Lake Bluff residents . Call to check availability or for an appointment .
Need a Handyman ?
A local handyman has agreed to help out Dickinson Hall members at a discounted rate . He can repair bi-fold doors , fix damaged walls , do tile repairs , install grab bars , do small carpentry jobs and more . Call Janet at 847-810-4678 to get the discount rate .
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