| Our Programs |
Web Sites and Internet Resources |
||
Administration on Aging (AoA) The AoA is the Federal Agency dedicated to policy development, planning and the delivery of supportive home and community based services to older persons and their caregivers. Agency for HealthCare Research & Quality (AHRQ) Call to order copies of guidelines on topics such as cardiac rehabilitation, treatment of pressure sores, or other publications on elder and long term health care, health insurance, and minority health data. Alliance for Aging Research National, citizen advocacy organization offering free publications including "Investing in Older Women's Health"; "Meeting the Medical Needs of the Senior Boom”; "Delaying the Diseases of Aging"; and other aging-related subjects such as “Menopause: How to age with ease”, and “Health care options under Medicare." Alzheimer's Association The Association is a nonprofit organization offering information and support services to people with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and their families. Contact the 24-hour, toll free number to link with local chapters and community resources. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA ) The ADEAR Center, funded by the National Institute on Aging, distributes information about Alzheimer's disease (AD) to health professionals, patients and their families, and the public. American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) AAD, an association of doctors specializing in dermatology, provides pamphlets and general information about skin cancers, contact allergies (like poison ivy), shingles (herpes zoster), and other skin conditions. American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) Association of doctors specializing in eye diseases. The Academy's Eye Care America helpline provides information and publications and connects eligible older people with ophthalmologists who provide free eye care in their community. American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Inc. (AAO) The Academy is an organization of doctors specializing in ear, nose, and throat problems and diseases of the head and neck. American Association for Geriatric The Association works to improve the mental health and well being of older people. Contact AAGP for information on geriatric psychiatry. American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) AAMFT is a professional association of qualified marriage and family therapists. The Association offers publications on topics including divorce, depression, and sexual problems. American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (AAHSA) AAHSA is a national, nonprofit organization providing older people with services and information on housing, health care, and community involvement. American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) AARP is a nonprofit organization that advocates for older Americans' health, rights, and life choices. American Bar Association The Commission examines and responds to law - related needs of older people. It makes referrals and maintains a listing of legal aid offices where older people can get free or low cost legal assistance. American Cancer Society (ACS) National, community-based volunteer health organization, providing information on cancer and its prevention. American College of Surgeons (ACS) National organization offering educational materials and information about qualified surgeons and surgical treatments for many illnesses and injuries. American Counseling Association (ACA) ACA offers information to older people on adult psychological development and aging. American Diabetes Association (ADA) ADA provides information and educational materials on preventing, treating, and living with diabetes. American Dietetic Association (ADA) ADA is a professional society of registered dieticians and other dietetic professionals who provide nutrition information, education, counseling, and care. American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) A national, nonprofit organization, AFB provides services and support for people who are blind or visually impaired. American Geriatrics Society (AGS) AGS is a nonprofit organization of physicians and health care professionals supporting the study of geriatrics. American Health Care Association (AHCA) AHCA is an organization representing the interests of nursing homes, assisted living centers, and subacute care facilities. Publications are available about nursing homes, guardianship, assisted living, financing, and long tem care services. American Heart Association (AHA) AHA is a nonprofit organization funding research and providing information on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heart diseases and stroke. American Lung Association (ALA) ALA is dedicated to the prevention, cure, and control of lung diseases such as asthma, emphysema, tuberculosis, and lung cancer. American Music Therapy (AMTA) AMTA is a nonprofit organization that advocates, promotes, and provides resources and information on the uses and benefits of music therapy. American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) AOTA offers information on the role of occupational therapy in promoting functional independence, preventing disability, and maintaining health. American Parkinson's Disease Association (APDA) APDA is a non-profit organization that funds research to find a cure for Parkinson's disease. Publications and educational materials are available on Parkinson's disease, speech therapy, exercise, diet, and aids for daily living. American Pharmaceutical Association (APhA) APhA is the national society of licensed pharmacists providing public health information and referrals to resources on medicine and public policy. Available publications include "Managing Medicines As You Grow Older", "National Medical Awareness Test", and "Self Medication Awareness Test". American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) APTA is an organization of physical therapists providing referrals to APTA geriatric-certified therapists and information on debilitating ailments like arthritis, stroke, scoliosis, and sudden onset of illness. APTA's Section on Geriatrics offers publications on topics such as steoporosis, incontinence, neck pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, hip, knee, or shoulder care, and what physical therapists can offer older adults. American Psychiatric Association (APA) APA is an association of psychiatrists, physicians specializing in diagnosing and treating people with mental and emotional disorders. Call APA for information on elder care issues, including medication use by older people, treatment of Alzheimer's disease, and nursing homes. American Psychological Association (APA) APA is a professional society of psychologists that provides assistance and information on mental, emotional, and behavorial disorders. The APA's section on older people produces publications on topics such as dementia and dementia research. American Red Cross The Red Cross offers health information programs, health services, blood donation services, disaster relief, and emergency services to the public and the Armed Forces. Local chapters provide programs for older people, including retirement planning, crime prevention instruction, safety courses, health screening clinics, and home nurse care instruction. American Stroke Association (ASA) ASA, a division of the American Heart Association, provides the Stroke Family "Warmline", a toll free information and referral service offering lists of certified doctors who are stroke specialists and volunteer stroke survivors or family members. Callers receive support and can request free information. American Tinnitus Association (ATA) ATA is a volunteer organization supporting research and providing information on tinnitus, a constant buzzing or ringing in the ears or head. Arthritis Foundation (AF) AF is a nonprofit, volunteer organization focusing on research and information to cure, prevent, or better treat arthritis and related diseases. Better Hearing Institute The Institute is a non-profit, educational organization providing information on medical, surgical, and rehabilitation options for improving hearing loss and on hearing aids. Brookdale Center on Aging (BCOA) of Hunter College BCOA sponsors a variety of programs including the Institute on Law and Rights of Older Adults, which fights for grandparent rights. Other programs focus on elder care services, guardianship, caregiving, Medicare, intergenerational activities, and Alzheimer's disease. Captioned Media Program (CMP) CMP is a free video lending program funded by the Department of Education and administered by NAD. CMP provides open-captioned videos (i.e., they display English text with any TV/VCR). Videos are available for deaf or hard of hearing Americans, their parents, families, teachers, counselors, interpreters, or others. Catholic Golden Age (CGA) CGA sponsors charitable work and helps older people meet their social, physical, economic, intellectual, and spiritual needs. CGA provides various group insurance plans, discounts on eyeglasses, prescription drugs, and travel. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) The CDC, part of the Federal Government, is the lead agency for protecting the health and safety of people at home or abroad. The CDC produces fact sheets that help people make informed decisions about their health and health care. Children of Aging Parents (CAPS) CAPS is a non-profit organization that provides support services to caregivers of older people. It serves as a clearinghouse for information on elder care resources and issues, including Instant Aging workshops to help communities understand the needs of older people. Send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to receive publications on aging or information about support groups. Department of Labor (DOL) The Department of Labor, part of the Federal Government, protects workers' rights. Contact DOL for information and assistance on pensions, employment, wages, discrimination, and occupational safety. The Senior Community Service Employment Program helps low income older people through part time employment and job training. Department of Veterans' Affairs The VA, part of the Federal Government, provides benefits for eligible veterans, and their families in outpatient clinics, medical centers, and nursing homes across the U.S. Contact the VA for information and publications on service locations and benefits, including comprehensive medical and dental care, other insurance benefits, vocational rehabilitation compensation, and pension. Disabled American Veterans (DAV) DAV is a non-profit organization representing disabled veterans and providing volunteer services and programs. DAV offers veterans job search training and help seeking their disability compensation and pension benefits. Elder Craftsmen (EC) EC offers programs and services that promote the skills and creativity of older people. Training programs are available for many crafts. Intergenerational programs, community service programs, and artist-in-residence are also offered. Eldercare Locator The Eldercare Locator is a nationwide directory assistance service helping older people and their caregivers locate local support and resources for older Americans. Elderhostel Elderhostel is a non-profit organization providing educational travel programs to people over age 55. Their catalog, published 10 times a year, lists thousands of national and international programs. Elderweb Elderweb is a research website for older people, professionals, and families seeking information on elder care and long-term care. Visit Elderweb for news and information on legal, financial, medical, and housing issues for older people and links to other websites. Epilepsy Foundation The Foundation is a national volunteer health organization supporting research, education, advocacy, and services for peple with seizure disorders. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) The EEOC, part of the Federal Government, enforces the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), conducts investigations, makes determinations, and effects reconciliations in age discrimination actions. Federal Consumer Information Center (FCIC) FCIC, part of the Federal Government, distributes a wide range of consumer-oriented publications from many Federal agencies. The Consumer Information Catalog lists more than 200 publications on topics ranging from health and housing to money management and nutrition. The National Contact Center answers questions and provides referral information on Federal programs, benefits, and services. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) FDA, part of the Federal Government, regulates the safety and effectiveness of food products, additives, drugs, medical devices, and cosmetics. FDA has information on topics including cancer, health fraud, nutrition, buying medicines on line, and food safety. Food and Nutrition Information Center (FNIC) FNIC, part of the Federal Government, provides information, publications, and audiovisual materials on nutrition. Resource guides on nutrition and older people, heart disease, diabetes, vegetarianism, food safety, and food labeling are available. Generations OnLine Generations Online is a nonprofit website offering resources for older people unfamiliar with computers or the Internet. Generations Online provides self-training software for senior centers, libraries, retirement homes, and other locations for a one-time fee. The program is free for seniors. Its feature, Memories, links older people with school children for cultural, experiential, and personal exchanges on aging. Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF) GRF is a national, nonprofit organization providing information and advocacy for people with glaucoma. Contact GRF for information on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of glaucoma, referrals to specialists, and coping strategies for patients. Gray Panthers (GP) Gray Panthers is a national advocacy organization of activists concentrating on social and economic issues. Local chapters organize intergenerational groups to address issues including universal health care, Medicare, preserving Social Security, affordable housing, and discrimination. Green Thumb, Inc. (GT) GT is a national, nonprofit organization helping older, low-income workers train for and find work, particularly in rural areas. The ""Geezer.com"" website has information to help seniors supplement their income, launch new businesses, and market their handcrafted goods." The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services HCFA, a part of the Federal Government, administers health insurance through Medicare and Medicaid. HCFA regulates hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies. Contact HCFA for the ""Medicare Handbook"" and other publications on related topics. HIV/AIDS Treatment Information Service (ATIS) ATIS, sponsored by the Federal Government, provides current treatment information on HIV and AIDS as well as answering HIV/AIDS related questions. All information is free and confidential. Huntington's Disease Society of America (HDSA) The Society is a nonprofit organization providing information, services, and advocacy for people with Huntington's disease (HD) and their families. Contact HDSA for research information on causes, diagnosis, and treatment of HD as well as referrals to testing centers, specialists, self help groups, and social services. International Hearing Society (IHS) IHS is a professional organization providing assistance to consumers in locating a hearing aid specialist, support, and repair services. The Hearing Aid Helpline offers information and publications on how hearing works, types of hearing loss, and design and use of hearing instruments. International Tremor Foundation (ITF) ITF is an international, nonprofit organization providing support, information on medication use and surgical treatment, research, and other resources for people diagnosed with essential tremor. Contact ITF for referrals to medical specialists, a list of support groups by State, and information on more than 20 tremor disorders. Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Inc. (LLS) LLS provides information, advocacy, and assistance for patients with leukemia and related cancers such as lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and Hodgkin's disease. Contact LLS for information, referrals to specialists and local chapters offering financial assistance to patients with leukemia, and support groups. Lighthouse National Center for Vision and Aging (LNCVA) LNCVA provides advocacy, support, information, and resources on vision impairment and blindness. Contact the Lighthouse for referrals to specialists and resources on visual disabilities, vision rehabilitation, links to related services, as well as information on eye diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) LFA is a nonprofit organization supporting research and distributing information about diagnosis and treatment of lupus erythematosus, a chronic autoimmune disease. MedicAlert Foundation MedicAlert is nonprofit, membership organization providing identification and medical information in emergencies. Medicare Rights Centers (MRC) MRC is a national, nonprofit service helping older adults and people with disabilities get good, affordable health care. Available educational materials include train-the-trainer manual, booklets on Medicare basics, and Medicare home health. National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Inc. (NAELA) NAELA is a nonprofit association assisting lawyers, bar associations, and others who work with older people and their families. Contact NAELA for information on lawyers specializing in issues pertinent to older people, resources to legal information, assistance, and education. National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Information Clearinghouse NIAMS Information Clearinghouse provides information and resources on all forms of arthritis, musculoskeletal diseases such as fibromyalgia, as well as skin diseases. Publications are available on the causes, treatments, and prevention of arthritis, lupus, musculoskeletal disorders, and diseases of bones, joints, and skin. National Association for Continence (NAFC) NAFC, formerly Help for Incontinent People, is a nonprofit organization providing advocacy, education, and support to people with incontinence and their families. National Association of the Deaf (NAD) NAD is a private, nonprofit organization representing the interests and rights of people who are deaf or hearing impaired. It advocates for greater access to education, employment, health care, and social services. Contact NAD for information on legal assistance, public policy on deafness and disabilities, and referrals to products that assist deaf and hearing impaired people. National Cancer Institute (NCI) NCI, part of NIH, is the lead agency for cancer research and statistics, treatments, clinical trials, patient education, and public information on all types of cancer, risk factors, and prevention. NCI's toll free CIS provides immediate, science-based answers to the public's specific questions about cancer. National Caucus and Center on Black Aged, Inc. (NCBA) NCBA is a national, nonprofit organization providing health and social service information, advocacy, and assistance to African Americans and low-income older people. Contact the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) Clearinghouse The Clearinghouse, funded by NCCAM, provides information on alternative medical therapies not commonly used or previously accepted in conventional Western medicine. Contact the Clearinghouse for information on holistic healing traditions, including acupuncture, herbs, homeopathy, therapeutic massage, and traditional oriental medicine. National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) NCEA is operated jointly by the National Association of State Units on Aging, the National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse, and the University of Delaware to disseminate information about abuse and neglect of older people. National Council Against Health Fraud (NCAHF) NCAHF is a nonprofit agency that provides a website listing reliable sources of health information on the Internet. Contact the Council for information on health fraud, misinformation, and quackery, or to report fraud and investigate health claims by companies or organizations. National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) NCADD is a nonprofit organization providing advocacy, assistance, and information on alcoholism and drug addiction. National Council on Patient Information and Education (NCPIE) NCPIE is a nonprofit coalition providing advocacy, information, and services to educate and empower consumers to make sound decisions about use of prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Contact NCPIE to discuss drug safety or facts about specific drugs. National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC) NDIC, funded by NIDDK, part of NIH, provides referrals to diabetes specialists and organizations, and searches from its database of patient and professional education materials. Call for publications on such topics as alternative therapies, controlling diabetes, complications of diabetes, and diabetes in Asian, Hispanic, and other ethnic groups. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) NDDIC, funded by NIDDK, part of NIH, provides referrals to digestive diseases organizations and support groups, as well as searches from its database of patient and professional education materials. Fact sheets are available on gastroesophageal reflux disease, hemorrhoids, constipation, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome. National Eye Health Education Program (NEHEP) NEHEP, funded by the NEI, part of NIH, is a partnership of professional, civic, and voluntary organizations and Federal agencies. NEHEP provides referrals to vision professionals and other health resources. The Program offers free materials to educate the public about how to protect eye health and prevent vision loss and distributes information on such topics as preventing diabetic eye disease, glaucoma, and low vision. National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) NFCA is a grass roots organization providing advocacy, support, and information for family members who care for chronically ill, older, or disabled relatives. There is no charge for family members to be on the mailing list and to receive the newsletter, "Take Care". Contact NFCA for help finding resources. National Hispanic Council on Aging (NHCoA) NHCoA is a national organization providing advocacy, education, and information for older Hispanic people. National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) NHPCO is a nonprofit, membership organization working to enhance the quality of life for individuals who are terminally ill and advocating for people in the final stage of life. National Hospice Foundation (NHF) NHF, a nonprofit, charitable organization affiliated with the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, provides support and information about hospice care options. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) NIAID, part of NIH, conducts and supports research on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of HIV/AIDS and other infectious and allergic diseases. Contact NIAID for information on allergies, as well as viral and bacterial illnesses. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) National Institutes of Health (NIH) NIMH, part of NIH, is the lead agency conducting and supporting mental health research including mental disorders of aging. Contact NIMH for information on mental health and aging, Alzheimer's disease, anxiety disorders, depression, and suicide. National Institute on Aging (NIA) NIA, part of NIH, conducts and supports biomedical, social, and behavorial research on aging processes, diseases, and the special problems and needs of older people. NIA develops and disseminates publications on topics such as the biology of aging, exercise, doctor/patient communication, and menopause. The Institute produces the "Age Pages," a series of fact sheets for consumers on a wide range of subjects including nutrition, medications, forgetfulness, sleep, driving, and long-term care. National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) The Society is a nonprofit organization providing support and information on the diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA) NOVA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving services to survivors of violent crimes or disasters. NOVA provides a list of publications on subjects, including older crime victims, victim assistance, and victim rights.
NPRCWA focuses on older women's issues and provides policy analysis, research, and assistance to the network of Administration on Aging-funded State and Area Agencies on Aging. The Center provides information and publications on women's health, caregiving, income security, and housing as well as prevention of crime and violence toward older women. National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) NPF is a nonprofit organization providing free information on psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis research and treatment. National Sleep Foundation (NSF) NSF is a nonprofit organization providing services and information about sleep disorders. National Stroke Association (NSA) The Association provides information about stroke prevention, acute treatment, recovery, and rehabilitation to the public. NSA offers referrals to support groups, care centers, and local resources for stroke survivors, caregivers, and family members. Older Women's League (OWL) OWL is a national organization advocating for the special concerns of older women. OWL helped develop the Campaign for Women's Health and the Women's Pension Policy Paget Foundation for Paget's Disease of Bone and Related Disorders (PF) PF provides information and programs for consumers and medical professionals about Paget's disease of bone and other bone disorders including primary hyperparathyroidism, fibrous dysplasia, osteoporosis, breast cancer metastatic to bone, and prostrate cancer metastatic to bone. Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration (PWBA) PWBA, part of the Federal Government, protects the integrity of private pension, health, and other employee benefit plans. The Administration assists workers in obtaining inappropriately denied benefits. Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (PFF) PFF is a private, nonprofit organization providing assistance, resources, and information on pulmonary fibrosis and its related illnesses. Contact PFF for information on the diagnosis and treatment of PF and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, as well as referrals to specialists, resources, and support groups. Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation The Foundation is a nonprofit agency that provides information about restless legs syndrome. Senior Job Bank Senior Job Bank is an online resource that provides free job information and resources for members. The Skin Cancer Foundation The Skin Cancer Foundation is a nonprofit organization providing information on the detection and treatment of skin cancer. Social Security Administration (SSA) SSA, part of the Federal Government, is the agency responsible for Social Security retirement programs, survivor benefits, disability insurance, and Supplemental Security Income. Contact SSA for information and assistance with Social Security benefits as well as eligibility and disability issues. Vestibular Disorders Association (VEDA) VEDA is a nonprofit organization providing information and support for people with disorders such as Meniere's disease, BPPV, and labyrinthitis. The Association provides lists of clinics and vestibular specialists and offers information on disorders of the inner ear and management and diagnosis of dizzy spells. Publications are available on recent advances, rehabilitation, and support therapy. Well Spouse Foundation (WSF) WSF is a nonprofit association of spousal caregivers. It offers support to the wives, husbands, and partners of chronically ill or disabled people. The Foundation has lists of support groups nationwide and sponsors recreational respite opportunities. "Adaptability" - Products for Quality Living" Products such as large number windowpane thermometer that adheres to window, adjustable rake, heating pad that is heated in the microwave, etc. "Talking Dirty with the Queen of Clean" Many helpful hints for cleaning using inexpensive household products such as vinegar, baking soda, etc. Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley Excellent website of consumers from Independent Living. Provides services to people with disabilities and their families: peer counseling, benefits advice, independent living skills development, housing information, home modification consultations, supported employment, support groups, personal assistant programs. Services are free of charge and there are no age limitations. They serve individuals of all ages with mobility impairments, visual impairments, hearing impairments, substance abuse, developmental disabilities, mental health disabilities, “hidden” disabilities, and persons with AIDS. WebMd Health care resource that includes a medical library, information on health and wellness, and HealthCare news and information. Horizon Mobility, Inc. Provides mobility equipment such as motorized and manual wheelchairs, scooters, etc.If the patient has a funding source such as Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance, then they work with that source. They perform all the appropriate billing procedures and handle all necessary paperwork with the patient's physician. Also, their hardship policy allows them to help those without a full funding source to obtain equipment. ExclusivelySeniors.com Products for adult incontinence, bathroom safety, patient aid products. National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) Survival kits for caregivers of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients are being distributed by the NFCA and Novartis Pharmaceutical Corp. The kit includes an educational video about AD, a question and answer brochure, two NFCA brochures on empowering consumers, and NFCA's newsletter. "Do Not Call Registry" The Registry became effective April 2001, to protect consumers from unwanted telemarketing calls. The Registry is administered by the Consumer Protection Board. Once registered, telemarketers have a 30-day grace period to remove your number from their call list. Telemarketers who violate the law will be subject to penalties of up to $2,000 for each violation. Flu Information - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) AARP Online Learning Online learning - some of it free - with courses in subjects such as Arts and Humanities, Technology and Science, History and Perspectives, and Personal Management. Explore at your own pace, enjoy for the fun of it. National Senior Citizens LawCenter Covers legal issues that affect the security and welfare of older persons of limited income. SeniorLaw Home Page Helps older persons, families, attorneys and financial planners to access information about "elder law", Medicare, Medicaid, estate planning, trusts, and the rights of the elderly and disabled. Elderhostel The residential educational program for those 55 and older throughout the United States and around the world. Service programs provide the opportunity to learn while volunteering in the public interest. New York State Office for the Aging Provides information on state and local programs for retirees. U.S. Administration on Aging Offers information on aging issues, studies and programs, including the Eldercare Locator, listing local agencies that can help you obtain services. Seniorstore.com On-line shopping for items such as low-vision, senior household products,etc. Excellent products such as large 5 button TV remote control, large print check registers, and magnifyers with lights for seniors. Alzheimers Disease "Safe Return" Program The Alzheimer’s Association’s Safe Return Program is the only nationwide program that assists in the identification and safe, timely return of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias who wander and become lost.
To register, a person with dementia or their caregiver fills out a Administration on Aging Fact Sheet: |
||