Wheeling Township Is Dedicated to Helping Seniors

The pandemic has caused many seniors to reevaluate the long-term possibilities and implications of aging in place in their own homes. Some may desire to remain in a cherished and familiar place, while others need to avoid a costly move into a retirement facility. Whatever the reason, aging in place requires planning, knowledge of available support services and forward-thinking. As part of its long-standing objectives, Wheeling Township offers a wide range of assistance for seniors so they can remain as independent as possible, for as long as possible.

“A wide variety of services and referrals are available for our seniors through the Township,” said Wheeling Township Supervisor Kathleen Penner. “We know that sometimes it’s the little things that can make a big impact in seniors’ lives, as we are dedicated to being of assistance to our older residents.”

Programs and services seniors may find beneficial include:

Assessor’s office: Seniors can apply for and/or update senior citizen exemptions and the senior freeze for their homes. Senior veterans may also apply for disabled veteran exemptions. For more information, call the Assessor’s Office at 847-259-1515 or email TaxInfo@wheelingtownship.com.

General Assistance: Seniors concerned about financial constraints or challenges can meet with the General Assistance Department to determine eligibility for the Food Pantry, Mobile Dental Clinic (reduced cost basic dental care), SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance program) and Emergency Assistance. For more information, call 847-259-7730 or email GA@wheelingtownship.com.

Transportation: Independence is key when aging in place, and Wheeling Township’s Transportation Department offers just that. Providing more than 15,000 rides annually, seniors over 60 can receive rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, hair salons, restaurants and more. Seniors and permanently disabled residents over 18 are eligible to use Township transportation for a nominal charge of $2 each way.

“We provide a crucial link for residents who are no longer driving, are in wheelchairs, or would otherwise be unable to easily and safely get around,” Supervisor Penner said. “Our drivers are compassionate and caring, which is the heart of this program’s success.”

For more information about the Transportation Program, call 847-259-7743 or email JMessina@wheelingtownship.com.

Home Delivered Meal Program: Nutrition is a key component for seniors to remain healthy and independent, and the Township’s Home Delivered Meal Program may be able to help. Hot, freshly prepared meals are delivered mid-day, Monday-Friday, right to the door of the recipient by a friendly volunteer. For residents who qualify, this service is available for $6.50 a day. A home assessment may be required, and participation in the program is subject to availability on routes. For more information, call 847-259-7730 or email HomeDeliveredMeals@wheelingtownship.com.

Support Groups: For seniors living with the challenges of low vision, or for those who find themselves serving as a caregiver to a loved one with Alzheimer’s, the Township offers two support groups that currently meet monthly on Zoom. Both groups allow members to share ideas, listen to guest speakers, socialize and offer each other support. For more information, call 847-259-7730 or email LLahey@wheelingtownship.com.

Through its dedication to providing services to seniors, whether by helping them maintain their independence, sustain their health, or by offering critical assistance during times of need, Wheeling Township continues to make a significant difference in the community…as it has since 1850.