Look Before You Leap: A Caregiver’s Guide

Bren Sheriff
Bren Sheriff


Look Before You Leap: A Caregiver’s Guide

In Last week’s quiz I mentioned that I would talk about “Keyman Insurance”, but my heart tells me that there are some caregivers that need the information that I share today.

Taking on the role of caregiver is a profound commitment. I speak from experience, having cared for a spouse, a friend, and two parents.

Being a full-time caregiver is not for the faint of heart. It requires commitment—the real meaning of love—patience, boundless energy, physical strength, unwavering faith, and appreciation. Why appreciation? During my caregiving, I was grateful for the help and encouragement I received from God. I learned to depend on Him as those I cared for depended on me. The more I thanked Him, the smoother my tasks flowed—it was always a mission of love.

I wish that I knew then, as a caregiver, what I know now.  It would have been so much easier, I could have hired help to relieve me of my 24/7 schedule. I hope that the following information helps someone finally make that decision to be the caregiver that their loved one needs and deserves.

1. Check the Care-Receiver’s Eligibility

Profile the person needing care: age, disability, service history (if a veteran), residence (Illinois), income, and assets. Match that profile to relevant programs.

Illinois programs to know:

  • Illinois Department on Aging (IDOA) – Support for Caregivers: Links to training, respite care, and home-and-community services.
  • Home Services Program (HSP): For individuals with disabilities (18–59), Medicaid waivers can fund home care, sometimes hiring family members.
  • Community Care Program (CCP): Helps seniors (60+) stay at home with personal care, homemaking, and adult day services; some counties compensate family caregivers.
  • VA Aid & Attendance: Provides extra pension for veterans or spouses needing hands-on help.
  • Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs (IDVA): Offers in-home assistance and adult day services for veterans.

Check the Caregiver’s Eligibility

Many assume they won’t be paid—but Illinois offers pathways to support:

  • Medicaid waivers may allow a family member to be hired as a paid caregiver.
  • Some programs provide up to ~$2,900/month, depending on eligibility.
  • IDOA’s caregiver support funds respite and supplemental services.
  • Veterans’ caregiver support includes stipends, training, and insurance through the VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.

     Monthly Amounts and Duration

  • Aid & Attendance: Up to ~$1,794/month for veterans, ~$1,153 for spouses.
  • Family caregiver compensation (Medicaid waiver): Up to ~$2,900/month in some cases.
  • Respite/emergency caregiver funds: One-time grants up to ~$500.
  • Duration: Benefits last while eligibility is maintained; annual renewals or reassessments are typical.

    Other Considerations

  • Asset and income limits apply.
  • Ensure power of attorney, advanced directive, and healthcare proxy are in place.
  • Apply early; processing may take months.
  • Local help: In Chicago/South Side, connect with your Area Agency on Aging (AAA) or caregiver resource center via IDOA.
  • Self-care: Use support groups, training, and respite services.

Approaching caregiving in Illinois with benefits-first mindset builds a stronger foundation. Knowing who qualifies, what’s available, and how much you might receive turns caregiving from reactive to proactive, reducing stress and creating a sustainable arrangement for both caregiver and recipient.  My advice, look before you leap.

My best to you and yours,

Bren Sheriff, CSA

THIS WEEK’S QUIZ: How are Social Security and SSI increases determined and will there be one in 2026?

Answer to the last quiz: The primary purpose of a Medicare Advantage Plan is to allow private carriers to compete for your enrollment by offering richer benefits for lower premiums. 

For Questions or Help: 773-817-0601 or basheriff1@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The illustrations presented in this column are not, nor are they intended to be, legal, financial, or any other licensed professional advice, you should contact the licensed professional of your choice for advice on your individual situation.



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