AgeGuide

10/13/2026

The 2027 Medicare Open Enrollment period starts on October 15 and runs until December 7. Schedule an appointment with a SHIP Counselor to review your plan options and see if a new plan could save you money. SHIP Counselors provide local, unbiased information and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries and their loved ones. Schedule your appointment with a SHIP Counselor by contacting AgeGuide at (800) 528-2000 or by visiting ageguide.org/medicare-assistance.

10/12/2026

With beautiful weather, enthusiastic participants, and people of all ages walking side by side, the first Generations in Motion event brought our community together in a meaningful way. It was wonderful to see people of different generations connecting through conversation, laughter, and movement, celebrating the power of bringing generations together.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and to Senior Services Associates, Inc., Kane County Health Department, YWCA Elgin, and the Elgin Police Department for hosting this wonderful event!

10/09/2026

Today is Ageism Awareness Day! Ageism affects people of all ages, but older adults often face harmful stereotypes that can impact their health, opportunities, and sense of belonging. At AgeGuide, we’re working to change the conversation and promote respect for aging.

🎧 Listen here: https://ageguide.org/podcast/

Let’s break the bias and celebrate the value of every generation!

10/08/2026

Aging happens to all of us, yet ageism remains one of the most accepted forms of bias in our society. In a special Ageism Awareness Day episode, Gretchen talks with Jeanette Leardi, social gerontologist and author of Aging Sideways. Drawing from both research and personal experience as a family caregiver, Jeanette challenges the myths and misconceptions that shape how our culture views aging and invites listeners to try out an entirely new perspective. Jeanette explains the science behind why aging brains become better equipped for perspective-taking, emotional regulation, and resilience over time.

Learn how ageist attitudes are formed, why harmful stereotypes persist, and how older adults can advocate for themselves in healthcare settings and everyday interactions.
🎧 Listen now: https://ageguide.org/podcast/

10/08/2026

AgeGuide and our SHIP partner sites are ready to help you during the upcoming 2027 Medicare Open Enrollment Period. The Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides essential guidance and information to Medicare beneficiaries and their loved ones. We can answer your questions and help you compare plans for next year so you can make an informed choice about your healthcare coverage. To get connected with a SHIP Counselor, visit https://ageguide.org/medicare-assistance/ or call AgeGuide at (800) 528-2000.

10/07/2026

Community starts with connection!

Join us for Elgin Generations in Motion, a free, family-friendly community walk and talk bringing people of all ages together to move, connect, and build relationships held on Monday, October 12 from 9:30-11:30 am at Festival Park, 132 S. Grove Ave in Elgin!

Participants will have the opportunity to walk alongside people from different generations, enjoy conversation and activities, and connect with others in the community. Whether you’re a child, parent, grandparent, older adult, or community member, everyone is welcome.

Bring your family, invite a neighbor, and join us! The even is free but registration is required: https://redcap.link/generations

Sponsored by Senior Services Associates, Inc., YWCA Elgin, Elgin Police Department, Kane County Health Department and AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois.

10/06/2026

What happens when an older adult needs a meal, but there isn’t one available?

The Waiting for More Than Just a Meal campaign is calling attention to the growing need for increased funding for Illinois nutrition programs. Help us advocate for additional funding by going to ageguide.org/action-alert to send a letter to urge your state leaders to invest in the nutrition services older adults rely on.

What happens when an older adult needs a meal, but there isn’t one available?

Across Illinois, nutrition programs are facing growing demand and limited funding. For some older adults, that can mean being placed on a waitlist for home-delivered or
community-based meals. These programs do more than put food on the table. A meal can provide essential nourishment, a meaningful connection, and a friendly check-in that lets someone know they are not alone. No older adult should have to wonder where their next nutritious meal will come from.

The Waiting for More Than Just a Meal campaign is calling attention to the growing need for increased funding for Illinois nutrition programs. Visit ageguide.org/action-alert to send a letter to urge our state leaders to invest in the nutrition services older adults rely on.

10/06/2026

State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP) offer free one-on-one insurance counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their caregivers. To find a SHIP Counselor near you, call (800) 528-2000 or visit http://ow.ly/Nz7N50BI7Ee

10/05/2026

October is ! Residents have the right to dignity, choice, and self-determination, and that includes the right to enjoy meaningful, person-centered dining experiences.

10/02/2026

How can we create more inclusive communities for all ages and abilities? Join Dr. Tracey Gendron on October 7, 2026, from 1:00–2:30 PM for Building an Inclusive Future: Working Together to Address Both Ableism and Ageism.

Learn how ageism and ableism intersect—and practical ways to challenge bias and promote dignity, belonging, and inclusion. Register here: https://ow.ly/cvF750ZJA23