The Chicago Department on Aging has announced two new programs that will greatly enhance the lives of eligible seniors.

The Flexible Spending Service Program will assist with up to $1,000.00 in services and goods that will help the senior stay in his/her home.  The program can be used for medical care and supplies, environmental and material aids, transportation, medication management, back rent, mortgages and utilities and other services that may not otherwise be available to the senior.

The Assistive Technology Program provides up to $3,000.00 to improve physical or mental functioning, alleviate a disorder and/or prevent the worsening of a condition.  This can include durable medical goods, home modification, incontinence supplies, dressing and grooming supplies.

To access these programs, all seniors must be referred via the Chicago Department on Aging's Information and Assessment Unit.  A case manager will do a home visit to assess the senior for these and other services they may be eligible for.  As these programs are funded by the Illinois Department on Aging, there is specific criteria that must be met.  The senior must:

• Be at least 60 years of age
• Be a US citizen or legal resident
• Possess non-exempt assets less than or equal to $17,500; $35,000 for a couple;
• Score 29 points or more on the Determination of Need (DON) assessment, including at least 15 points under part A
• Apply for Medicaid