How to apply for Cook County Area Agencies on Aging — Chicago DFSS + AgeOptions (Cook County) in Illinois

Who it's for

Cook County is served by TWO Area Agencies on Aging: the City of Chicago Department of Family & Support Services (DFSS) Senior Services Division is the AAA for the City of Chicago, and AgeOptions is the AAA for suburban Cook County. Both provide Aging & Disability Resource Network information and assistance, home-delivered and congregate meals, the Community Care Program intake (CCU referral), caregiver support, benefits enrollment (SNAP/Medicare/Benefit Access), and senior centers. Chicago residents call DFSS (312-744-4016); suburban Cook residents call AgeOptions (708-383-0258) or the Senior HelpLine (1-800-252-8966).

What you'll need

• Proof of age 60+
• Proof of Cook County residency
• For Home-Delivered Meals: documentation of homebound status
• For CCP: Care Coordination Unit assessment
• Medicare card if enrolled

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Cook County Area Agencies on Aging — Chicago DFSS + AgeOptions (Cook County). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age 60+, proof of Cook County residency, for Home-Delivered Meals: documentation of homebound status — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Renewals

annual reassessment