08/26/2026
What to Do if You Cannot Get Out of Your House as a Senior
If you are a senior who cannot leave your home, there are practical, legal, and support-based options that can help you stay safe, connected, and supported β without unnecessary loss of independence.
1. Contact local senior support services
In Illinois, you can reach out to Adult Protective Services (APS) if you are at risk of abuse, neglect, or self-neglect. APS investigates concerns but will not remove you from your home unless there is a serious safety risk and you cannot make safe decisions for yourself
β’ Alternatives (309) 277-0167 or (800) 798-0988, 809 21st St. Peru, IL. 61354
β’ Ombudsman β Aly Irish (309) 277-0167 or toll free (800) 798-0988
β’ APS caseworkers can arrange home visits, safety checks, and connect you to resources.
2. Ask for in home or community support
Many agencies and nonprofits provide in home help such as:
β’ Meal delivery (Meals on Wheels)
β’ Transportation to appointments
β’ Personal care or housekeeping
β’ Health checks and wellness visits
These services can help you remain in your home while meeting daily needs.
3. Explore senior housing and care options
If you need more support, there are senior housing communities in Illinois, including
β’ Country Comfort Henry, IL. (309) 364-3607
β’ Country Comfort Princeton, IL. (815) 879-2096
β’ JPO Retirement Home Inc. Dalzell, IL. (815) 663-4233
β’ Hawthorne Inn 1101 31st St. Peru, IL. (815) 224-2200
β’ Simple Comfort Retirement Home, 55+ 2412 Becker Dr. Peru, IL. (815) 223-3045
β’ Pleasant View Hearthstone 55+, 505 College Ave, Ottawa, IL (815) 434-1130
β’ Heritage Manor, 1301 21st St. Peru, IL (815) 223-4901
β’ Liberty Village of Peru, (815) 224-2200
β’ Villas of Holly Brook, Streator, IL. (779) 600-2927
β’ Diamond Senior Living, Wenzel Rd. Peru, IL. (847) 462-0885
These can offer onsite care, activities, and support, but you can usually choose to stay in your own home if you wish.
4. Understand legal rights
You cannot be forced into care or removed from your home without your consent unless a court has determined you lack decision making capacity and a guardian or conservator is appointed If you are mentally competent, you can refuse help even if risks remain.
5. Communicate with family or trusted friends
If you are able, talk openly with family about your needs and concerns. They can help connect you to services and advocate for your safety
6. Safety and emergency planning
If you cannot leave your home, make sure you have:
β’ A clear emergency plan (who to call, where to go)
β’ Access to a phone or emergency alert system
β’ Regular check ins from a trusted person
Next steps:
β’ Contact Adult Protective Services if you feel unsafe or neglected.
β’ Alternatives Peru, IL (815) 431-8034
β’ Ombudsman β Aly Irish (309) 277-0167 or toll free (800) 798-0988
β’ Ask about in home care and meal delivery programs.
β’ Voluntary Action Center β 1702 4th St. Peru, IL. (815) 883-3630
β’ Moms Meals (Delivered to your door via mail) (877) 508-6667
β’ If you need more help, connect with Putnam County Community Center, your local senior center @ (815) 339-2711, 128 First St. Standard, IL. 61363
Key point: The goal is to balance safety, dignity, and independence β you can get help without losing your home, as long as you are willing to accept it