Lisa Bertagnoli

Six organizations in Illinois received 2023 AARP Community Challenge grants—totaling nearly $57,000. Projects included home modifications, intersection improvements and a community garden.

Illinois ranked 16th per capita in the number of fraud and other incidents in 2022, with nearly $200 million in fraud losses, according to the Federal Trade Commission.

AARP Community Challenge grants have created new routes for enjoying the outdoors and improved accessibility, among other benefits for Illinois residents.

A new law passed with support from AARP Illinois will ensure older LGBTQ residents get the care and respect they deserve.

Property tax relief, an end to utility surcharges, expanded retirement savings options—those and other changes could make the state more affordable for residents. What other ways could state leaders help cash-strapped older residents stay in their own homes?

A church in Chicago, a Peoria nonprofit, and the city of Urbana were among the AARP Community Challenge grant winners in Illinois.

A new ordinance that allows additional dwelling units, which are secondary structures built on existing lots, can help to alleviate social isolation by allowing older Chicagoans to live affordably near their families. 

Insufficient retirement income is one of many economic and health challenges detailed in “Disrupt Disparities,” a report from AARP Illinois that recommends specific legislative, policy and other changes to reduce these inequities.

Dozens of disparities in economic security, health and digital connectivity are outlined in AARP Illinois’ “Disrupt Disparities” report, which is the beginning of a multiyear project.

AARP Illinois is pushing lawmakers to improve conditions in long-term care facilities. Key legislative priorities include calling for regular COVID-19 testing and adequate personal protective equipment, better telecommunication options for caregivers and families, heightened accountability for nursing homes, and transparency on state and federal funding that goes to facilities.