ActiKare’s top ten websites for older persons and their family
Caregivers, family members and seniors are all becoming more comfortable using the internet to seek out information. The problem is now that there is so much information. It is important to know where to find research and fact based information.
The following sites are useful not only for information but some can actually help calculate benefits, allow updating of information and applying for benefits. This can be extremely useful and convenient when it is hard for the older person or caregiver to leave home. It saves traveling time, painful moving about and sitting for hours in an office. Another benefit is that it is private and conversations between family members or advisors can take place without the fear of being overheard.
The following ten sites are not listed in a particular order and there are many, many more that could be on the list. These just happened to be ten that I felt would be the most useful
n4a|National Association on Aging
? The National Association on Aging’s mission is to help persons with disabilities and older persons live with choices and dignity in their homes and communities for as long as possible. The site has access to advocacy issues, training, events, programs, resources and publications.
? This site has helpful information on work, home & garden, relationships, politics, entertainment, personal growth, money, food, travel, technology, health and member benefits.
? Medicare.gov is The Official U.S. Government Site for Medicare. You can find out if you are eligible, change your coverage and apply online for Medicare. Explanations of the new Medicare and New Health laws plus news about Part D rebate checks are just a few of the news stories that you can read about on this site.
The Official Website of the U.S. Social Security Administration. What you can do online:
? Find a Social Security Office in your area
? Forms and Publications
? Read your Social Security Earnings Statement
? Check the Status of your Application
? Read about relevant news topics that may affect benefits
Find and enroll in federal, state, local and private programs that can help you pay for utility bills, meals, health care, prescription drugs and many other needs.
United States Department of Veteran Affairs
? Information on Veterans Services and news updates plus veterans ON-line Application, enrollment and updating information, ON-line life insurance, VA forms and notices.
? Online referral center that provides eye exams and up to one year of care to U.S. citizens and legal residents. Volunteer ophthalmologists provide services often at no 0ut-of-pocket expense for those who qualify.
“The mission of the AoA is to develop a comprehensive, coordinated and cost-effective system of home and community-based services that helps elderly individuals maintain their health and independence in their homes and communities.” AoA
? Long-term care planning
? Print and web resources
? Check for benefits
? Find local programs
National Fraud Information Center/Internet Fraud Watch
If you think you have been a victim of fraud go online and fill out a complaint form. Other information on this site includes:
? Internet fraud
? Scams against the elderly
? Telemarketing fraud
And last but not least, WebMD
WebMD has information about health conditions from A-Z and is useful as a resource but should never replace a visit to your doctor. Other topics that can be found on WebMD are:
? Drugs & Supplements
? Eating & Diet
? Healthy Living
? Mental Health
? Pet Health
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