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Township of Schaumburg offers programs and services for older adults

May is Older Adult Americans Month. The Schaumburg Township celebrates older adults throughout the year with its expansive programs and services.

Senior Services offers a litany of activities, events and social service programs for all aspects of one's life. The township boasts several certified Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) counselors offering free, unbiased Medicare and Medicaid insurance counseling.

Township staff can also help complete other benefit applications and share resources regarding local, state and federal programs to address issues such as utility and food assistance. Seniors gather daily for social, physical and intellectual enrichment through the Senior Service Department's drop in classes and virtual activities. The activities include games, chair yoga, tai chi and art classes. The informational programs range in topic including travel, history, museums, nature and more. The programming line-up has something for everyone.

The township will begin a few in-person activities starting in June to further combat the social isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to these programs and services, the township offers support groups for people with dementia and Alzheimer's and their caregivers, diabetes and the deaf community. Staff also offer a support group just for caregivers as a respite from their stressful responsibilities.

The township nurse conducts low-cost screenings for A1C and cholesterol and no-cost screenings for bone-density, blood pressure and memory loss. Nurse Stachula also leads a walking group twice a week, weather permitting, to promote healthy habits and socialization.

Township transportation provides rides for seniors to receive medical care, shop and visit friends and family. Welfare Services provides support to seniors who are experiencing food insecurity through monthly visits to our food pantry.

This winter and spring, the township organized several community care package campaigns for older adults in need. The two campaigns, "Warm up with the Township" and "Send a Smile," collected personal care items, greeting cards/drawings, small games, treats/coffee and tea, face masks, hand sanitizer etc. In the last year alone, the department has delivered more than 2,800 items through this campaign.

The township values its older adult residents and strives to provide client-focused services to help maintain client independence and dignity. If you have questions about or are interested in finding out more about Schaumburg Township services for older adults, contact Senior Services at (847) 884-0030. Visit online at schaumburgtownship.org, sign-up for the weekly Senior eNewsletter or bi-monthly paper newsletter and follow on social media at Facebook: @SchaumburgTownship and Twitter: @SchaumburgTwp.

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