Senior Savvy

Circuit Breaker – Illinois Cares Rx

Here is some information from the Schaumburg Township Disability Services you or your loved ones may greatly benefit from:

The Illinois Cares Rx Circuit Breaker program provides assistance for income-eligible senior citizens and persons with disabilities based on their earnings/income for the 2011 tax year. The program consists of a circuit breaker grant, prescription drug coverage, license plate discount, and “people with disabilities ride free” transit card.

Appointments will not be taken until the first week in February. Please call 847-884-0030 to schedule your appointment the first week in February.

Eligibility Requirements:

1. Age 65 or over
2. 16 years of age or older before January 1, 2012 and permanently disabled
3. Must live in Illinois at the time you file the claim
4. Income Based: Please see income limits below

2012 Income Limits:

$21,780 for one-person household
$29,420 for two-person household
$37,060 for three or more-person household

In 2012 you will pay:

• $5 for generic drugs
• $15 for preferred brand name drugs
• $20 for non-preferred brand name drugs
• 25% of the cost of each prescription, plus the appropriate co-pays after $2,930 in drug benefits have been paid on your behalf.

You must re-apply every year. Internet filing is the fastest way to receive your benefits. If you do not have Internet access, we can assist you in filing your application.

Mattingly Mouse

Have you heard about Mattingly Mouse yet? The Mattingly Mouse is a low-cost alternative to a desktop video magnifier. The wired or wireless mouse connects to any TV or computer monitor with video input, making it easy to read newspapers, magazines, recipes, and much more! The Mattingly Mouse has three viewing modes, seven levels of magnification, and a freeze-frame function. Stop in to see this lightweight ergonomic reading aid at the *Guild’s Consumer Product Center. Call (312-236-8569) or email (brian@guildfortheblind.org) Brian Hollandsworth for a personal demonstration.

* Guild for the Blind Consumer Product Center is located at 65 E. Wacker Place, Suite 1010 in Chicago.

Can’t get to the library? Let the library come to you!

Need help getting to and fro? Let the Outreach Department assist you! The Schaumburg Township District Library provides patrons who have temporary or permanent mobility concerns with library materials – delivered right to your door! Our friendly staff will deliver to senior communities, private residences, and even hospitals. We have satisfactorily served many patrons, and look forward to helping you! Simply call Lisa Nusret (847.923.3388) for more details.

We’ll gladly register you for this complimentary service right away! Don’t let mobility issues prevent you from getting the most out of your community services! For additional information on this wonderful program, contact the Director of Extension Services, Barbara Adrianopoli, at 847.923.3386