Whole-Person Care for Older Adults – Chicago Senior Healthcare
Howard Brown Health provides specialized care for seniors living in the Chicagoland area, honoring the diverse life experiences, backgrounds, and needs of every aging patient. All seniors deserve compassionate, personalized care that meets their unique needs and supports their rights as they age. Choose Howard Brown Health for Chicago senior healthcare because of our commitment to inclusivity, culturally competent care, and programs designed for all older adults and specifically for LGBTQ+ elders.
Key Senior Services:
- Geriatric Primary Care
- Comprehensive Care for Chronic Illness
- Mental and Emotional Health Care
- Community Resources & Social Support Guidance
To schedule an in-person appointment as a new patient or a follow-up visit with one of our geriatric medicine providers, call us at 773.388.1600 or schedule an appointment online by selecting the “Aging Service Visit” on this page.
Inclusive Health Care for People Who Are Aging
Often referred to as geriatric medicine, Howard Brown Health offers a specialized field of healthcare focused on the unique medical, cognitive, and social needs of people aged 60 and older. We emphasize whole-person care, helping seniors maintain independence, manage chronic conditions, and age with optimal quality of life.
Senior Risk Factors
According to Neilsberg Research dated February 2025, just over 19% of the total Chicago area population consists of adults aged 60 and older. This converts to approximately 517,042 adults aged 60+. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the leading causes for death among seniors are:
- Heart disease
- Cancer
- Stroke (cerebrovascular diseases)
Aging LGBTQ+ Risk Factors
As noted by the Centers for Healthcare Strategies, as of September 2023 there are an estimated 2.7 million older adults in the United States (ages 50 and over) who identify as LGBTQ+, and this number is expected to exceed five million by 2060. LGBTQ+ seniors often face greater challenges, including higher rates of chronic conditions and disability, along with more obstacles to affirming care. At Howard Brown Health, we recognize these disparities and are committed to providing the inclusive, supportive services every older adult deserves.
Why Choose Howard Brown Health
At Howard Brown Health, our Geriatric Medicine and Aging Services program is designed to deliver compassionate, comprehensive support that helps all seniors age with dignity, confidence, and connection. Through our healthcare programs and community engagement, we help seniors and their caregivers create a more inclusive perspective and foster personal growth around aging and LGBTQ+ issues. We understand that older residents who live in Chicago, Illinois experience evolving physical, emotional, and social needs and we are committed to providing care and a network of support that meets each person where they are, addressing the issues faced by LGBTQ+ seniors and the broader aging community.
Our integrated team offers geriatric primary care, chronic disease management, behavioral health services, and coordinated access to community resources. We focus on whole-person wellbeing, ensuring patients receive inclusive, respectful, and culturally informed care. While we continue to provide affirming services for LGBTQ+ seniors, our clinic welcomes all older adults seeking high-quality, patient-centered support. Our case management professionals maintain partnerships across the city of Chicago to expand our reach and impact, helping older adults achieve better health and quality of life.
A Geriatric Team Focus on Improving Lives
Our geriatric team is led by Magda Houlberg, MD, AAHIVS, Medical Director of Geriatric Medicine at Howard Brown Health. Dr. Houlberg is board-certified in geriatric medicine with over 17 years of experience caring for aging adults. She graduated with a medical degree in internal medicine and completed fellowship training in geriatric medicine from Rush University Medical College. Her special interests include palliative care, treating older adults, and interdisciplinary medical care for at-risk populations like the aging LGBTQ+ community.
At Howard Brown Health, taking an interdisciplinary approach to caring for older adults means bringing together a team of experts across medical, behavioral, and social service disciplines to create a unified, whole-person care plan. Instead of treating each health concern in isolation, our providers collaborate closely to understand the full picture of a patient’s physical health, mental wellness, social needs, and lived experiences — including the unique experiences of LGBTQ+ seniors.
Affordability
Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, seeking preventive care, or looking for a trusted healthcare partner as you age, we are here for you, providing services tailored to older adults and championing the rights of LGBTQ+ elders. At Howard Brown Health, we understand that every dollar counts for seniors and their families and want to assist you in getting the care you deserve.
Insurance and Sliding Scale
Most services are covered by most insurance plans. We accept Medicaid and for a list of accepted insurance plans click here. If you don’t have coverage or the ability to pay, we offer a sliding scale to provide opportunities for the elderly to get the personalized care they need.
To schedule an in-person appointment as a new patient or a follow-up visit with one of our geriatric providers, call us at 773.388.1600 or schedule an appointment online by selecting the “Aging Service Visit” on this page.
Case Management
We know that navigating healthcare gets complicated for seniors and those who care for them, like Medicare paperwork, long-term care decisions, essential services that feel impossible to find. Our experienced case managers cut through that complexity with personalized referrals and guidance that actually makes sense for your life. Whether you’re figuring out coverage or finding the right facility, we make sure you can access support that fits your unique situation. Through research and training, we’ve built a network of partnerships with local organizations across Chicago, expanding our reach so high-quality services and resources are there when you need them. Find more information about our case management program here.
Our case managers can help you:
- Apply for financial assistance programs that help cover medical costs such as hospital or provider bills and explore options that reduce high out-of-pocket costs for medications.
- Obtain durable medical equipment and assistive supplies when cost, insurance, or system navigation becomes a barrier.
- Support older adults and their caregivers by connecting them with trusted city resources tailored to their individual needs and care goals.
- Complete applications for support services that provide access to food, transportation, and emergency financial assistance.
- Answer questions about available benefits and connect you with a benefits navigator who can assist with completing enrollment.
- Navigate referrals and explore care options such as long-term care facilities, home-health services, or other supports offered when daily needs can no longer be met independently.
Advocacy and Community Engagement
At Howard Brown Health, advocacy and community engagement drive everything we do and that means standing up for older adults across Chicago with pride. Our team shows up every single day to connect individuals with the resources, information, and support that keep them healthy, independent, and proud as they age. We know that every senior deserves dignity. That’s why we’re building opportunities for involvement, connection, and real change within the communities we serve.
Community Resources for Seniors
Get connected to the resources you need. See all of our aging community resources and how to contact them here.
Support Groups and Workshops
Explore our list of ongoing, free community and support groups that do not require participants to be an active patient of Howard Brown Health. Learn how to register for our various support groups and workshops here.
Center for Education, Research and Advocacy (ERA)
Our Center for Education, Research and Advocacy (ERA) serves as a national resource center for training programs, research, and professional development that equips healthcare professionals with real expertise. We’re talking about affirming, inclusive care for LGBTQ+ seniors that recognizes who you are and honors your experience. By sharing cutting-edge information and proven practices, we’re improving care quality for older adults not just here in Chicago, but throughout the Country.
Community involvement isn’t just nice to have — it’s essential to who we are. We’ve created multiple ways for you to get involved, whether that’s volunteering your time, showing up at events, or making a gift that directly supports our programs. Every single act of support moves us closer to a more just and inclusive society for all older adults. Join us in this work — whether you’re an elder seeking support, a caregiver hunting for resources, or someone ready to make a real difference in seniors’ lives.
To schedule an in-person appointment as a new patient or a follow-up visit with one of our geriatric providers, call us at 773.388.1600 or schedule an appointment online by selecting the “Aging Service Visit” on this page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of primary care services do you offer for older adults?
Our geriatric primary care providers offer comprehensive health services tailored to the needs of aging adults. This includes preventive care, chronic disease management, vaccines, and support for conditions related to mobility, heart health, and overall wellbeing. Every patient receives a personalized care plan based on their goals and health needs.
What happens during a geriatric care consultation?
During a consultation, our team works with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your medical, behavioral, and social needs. We coordinate care across providers, help with referrals, and support you in managing your health long-term.
Do you provide care for infectious diseases like HIV, mpox, or hepatitis?
Yes. Our infectious disease specialists offer comprehensive testing, treatment, and ongoing support for HIV, mpox, and hepatitis. Care is delivered in an affirming, stigma-free environment for all patients, including LGBTQ+ older adults.
What bone health services are available?
We provide osteoporosis screenings, diagnostic evaluations, and treatment plans to help prevent fractures, maintain bone strength, and support mobility as you age.
Which vaccines are recommended for older adults?
We offer recommended vaccinations based on age and health history, including flu, COVID-19, pneumonia, shingles, and other preventive immunizations important for older adults.
What chronic conditions do you help manage?
Our team supports patients with many long-term health needs, including:
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Heart conditions
We work with you to monitor symptoms, adjust medications, and support lifestyle changes that promote healthier aging.
Do you offer memory care and cognitive testing?
Yes. We evaluate and support patients experiencing dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or age-related memory changes. Our geriatric clinicians provide cognitive screening, diagnostic testing, and guidance for patients and their families.
Is HIV and STI care available for older adults?
Absolutely. We provide HIV and STI prevention, testing, and treatment—all delivered in an affirming, respectful space. Our geriatric team ensures older adults feel supported and informed at every step.
What behavioral health services are available for seniors?
Our behavioral health team addresses the unique emotional and mental health needs of older adults, including:
- Depression and anxiety related to aging
- Behavioral symptoms linked to memory or cognitive changes
- Trauma-informed support for lifelong experiences
- Grief, loss, and major life transitions
- Mental health challenges connected to chronic illness
- Social isolation and loneliness
- Substance use or medication misuse
- Support for caregivers and family relationships
We also offer group therapy options for additional peer support. Learn more here.
How do you support social connection and community engagement?
We connect older adults with support groups, workshops, and community resources that help them stay engaged, independent, and connected. We also offer programs specifically designed for LGBTQ+ elders and caregivers to ensure everyone receives inclusive support.
Visit our Support Groups and Workshops page here to learn more.
Get connected to local and national community resources here.
Do you host community events for seniors?
Yes. We offer inclusive, welcoming events for older adults. With a small donation covering lunch or activities, these gatherings are accessible to everyone and create opportunities for connection and fun. Visit our events page here to learn more.