Elder Care Resources

Listed below are web sites featuring educational, research, and informational resources on a variety of aging, health and caregiving topics. The summary descriptions have been attained directly from the individual web sites Web sites are intended to serve as reference tools and are not endorsements of products or diagnostic resources. The content and external links to these web sites are subject to change.

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• Arizona Center on Aging The Arizona Center on Aging (ACOA) is committed to addressing the health and human welfare of seniors through an integrated program of research, education and excellence in health care and service. ACOA is jointly sponsored by the University of Arizona Colleges of Nursing and Public Health.
• Arizona Geriatric Education Center The Arizona Geriatric Education Center (AzGEC), located within the Arizona Center on Aging, University of Arizona, is one of a national network of 45 Geriatric Education Centers (GECs). GECs offer health profession educators, students and community practitioners opportunities to learn more about providing health care to older adults and their families.
• Grandparents Raising Grandchildren The Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Southern Arizona Coalition (GRGSoAZ) was formed in 1999 after the National Satellite Conference on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren. Offers educational, legal, support group and child care information concerning relative care strategies and resources for those responsible for young children.
• UA Life & Work Connections' Elder Care and Life Cycle Resources This web site hosts information regarding comprehensive older adult and caregiving consultations, resources and information to address current and anticipated elder care issues for students and benefits-eligible employees. Of note is the Program's departmental links to its Work/Life Support section.

Tucson Area Resources - These organizations provide resource information about elder care, caregiving, and supportive services for families in the greater Tucson area.
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• Information & Referral This web site is the information hub of human services and offers a wide range of programs to meet the needs of southern Arizona's equally wide range of people. The mission is to help people help themselves. In particular, its "Senior Resource Network" program offers assistance regarding aging services and housing resources.
• Pima Council on Aging Pima Council on Aging is a private, non-profit corporation that serves as the designated Area Agency on Aging for all of Pima County, Arizona. In this unique capacity, it offers comprehensive aging resources and information, ranging from home delivered meals, home repair, and caregiver programs and services to respite care services and its ombudsman program.

Government Resources - Comprehensive information on aging, health and government-sponsored programs including information on eligibility for receiving financial assistance.
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State of Arizona

• Arizona Attorney General Protecting Arizona's seniors from abuse and exploitation is an important function of the Attorney General's Office. This web site offers information concerning life care planning, safe senior resources and how to avoid consumer fraud.
• Arizona Department of Economic Security The Arizona Department of Economic Security promotes the safety, well-being, and self sufficiency of children, adults, and families. It offers a specific services and programs for older adults, including Aging and Adult Administration, which support and enhances the ability of at-risk and older adults to meet their needs.
• Arizona Department of Health Services This site provides access to information regarding the monitoring of hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other licensed facilities that serve older adults.
• Arizona Department of Health Services - Public Health Services The Healthy Aging 2010 web site provides health information for seniors and identifies resources for program planning, data on the health of older Arizonans, and information on successful community initiatives and strategies being used to promote healthy lifestyles and maintain optimal levels of activity and well being in older adults.
• Health Insurance-Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) This site provides vital information regarding the State's AHCCCS programs like Medicare Cost Sharing, supplemental security income Cash/Medical Assistance Only and Arizona Long Term Care, as well as related services of interest to older adults and their families.
• State of Arizona - General Information Located under Family, Health, and Safety, this web site provides links to many programs serving Arizona seniors and has general information about state resources ranging from education and business to travel and recreation.

Federal

• Administration on Aging The Administration is the Federal focal point and advocate agency for older persons and their concerns and includes references to housing, caregiving and other related services.
• Eldercare Locator The Eldercare Locator connects older Americans and their caregivers with sources of information on senior services. The service links those who need assistance with state and local area agencies on aging and community-based organizations that serve older adults and their caregivers.
• Federal Trade Commission The Commission hosts information regarding consumer protection, identity theft, telemarketing, and other valuable resources to assist older adults from becoming targets of consumer fraud.
• FirstGov.govThis web site enables the viewer to search millions of web pages from federal and state governments, the District of Columbia and U.S. territories on a variety of areas, including aging and caregiving issues. Most of these pages are not available on commercial web sites.
• FirstGov for Seniors FirstGov for Seniors offers an extensive listing of health, well-being, volunteer, governmental agencies, retirement and education resources of interest to older adults and their families.
• Medicare Medicare is the national health insurance program for:
1. People age 65 or older
2. Some people under age 65 with disabilities
3. People with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), which is permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant
• Includes information on enrollment procedures, providers, long-term care and a specialized glossary.
• National Institute on Aging The Institute leads a broad scientific effort to understand the nature of aging and to extend the healthy, active years of life. It identifies health information and research programs relevant to the aging process.
• National Institutes of Health The Institutes' research goal is to acquire new knowledge to help prevent, detect, diagnose, and treat disease and disability, from the rarest genetic disorder to the common cold. With a focus on better health for everyone, it identifies health information, grant and funding opportunities, and relevant news and resources.
• Social Security Administration The Administration offers strategies for planning for retirement and resources concerning Medicare, disability and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and individual and family benefits. Individuals can also access their SSI statement and view other useful information.

Caregiving -Extensive information on the many aspects of caregiving, caregiver self-help information and information on how to care for dependent individuals.
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Tucson

• Caregiver Consortium The Caregiver Consortium is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving quality of life for older adults and their caregivers in Tucson, Pima County and the surrounding region. It offers valuable resources, links and information in support of caregivers and their families and friends.

National

• AgeNet AgeNet, Inc. operates a comprehensive, national eldercare network to meet the specific needs of the fast growing aging population and their adult caregiving children.
• And Thou Shalt HonorBased on the PBS television special of the same name, this well-organized web site offers a nation wide directory of community services for caregivers, numerous books, tapes, and DVD's, and other valuable information.
• CareGuide CareGuide is a care management company dedicated to helping people lead more comfortable, secure and independent lives. It strives to empower families by providing them with personalized solutions and support in the daily process of caregiving.
• Family Caregiver Alliance The Alliance serves as a public voice for caregivers, illuminating the daily challenges they face, offering them the assistance they need and deserve, and championing their cause through education, services, research and advocacy.
• National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys The mission of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys is to establish NAELA members as the premier providers of legal advocacy, guidance and services to enhance the lives of people with special needs and people as they age. On-line search capabilities are available to locate and elder law attorney in your area.
• National Family Caregivers Association The Association exists to support family caregivers and to speak out publicly for caregivers' needs. It espouses a philosophy of self-advocacy and self-care that is predicated on the belief that caregivers who choose to take charge of their lives, and see caregiving as but one of its facets, are in a position to be happier and healthier individuals.
• National Organization for Empowering Caregivers The Organization's purpose is to provide assistance, education, support and referrals for informal family caregivers, as well to promote public awareness about the realities of caregiving.

Disease/Condition Specific Organizations - Information on specific disease processes as well as information on support services.
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• Alzheimer's Association The mission of the Association is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research and to enhance quality care and support for individuals, their families and care partners. Resources are available for care partners and health professionals, for individuals with memory loss and on how to talk with children about Alzheimer's disease.
• American Cancer Society The Society is the nationwide community- based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy, and service. Numerous resources and related links are available.
• American Diabetes Association The Association is the nation's leading nonprofit health organization providing diabetes research, information and advocacy. The mission of the Association is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. Includes information on prevention and research with specific topics geared to professionals, families and children.
• American Heart AssociationThe Association is a national voluntary health agency whose mission is to reduce disability and death from cardiovascular diseases and stroke. This web site hosts information on specific heart diseases and conditions, diet and nutrition, and publications and resources.
• American Lung Association For 100 years the American Lung Association has been fighting for the lung health of all Americans. This web site includes information on specific lung diseases and conditions, treatment options and support, asthma and allergy management, and smoking cessations programs.
• American Parkinson Disease AssociationParkinson's disease is a neurological disorder that affects movement. Symptoms may include slowness, rigidity, tremor, and problems with balance and posture. This web site features current events, information and referral services, and links to local chapters in your area.
• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association The Association aims to provide highest quality services and advocate for individuals who are experiencing communication disabilities. This web site includes information on disorders and disease, treatment and rehabilitation, and other education and outreach materials.
• Arthritis Foundation The mission of the Foundation is to improve lives through leadership in the prevention, control and cure of arthritis and related diseases. Featured on this web site is information on conditions and treatments, alternative therapies, and other valuable resources to assist those living with arthritis.
• Head/Brain Injury A medical, legal, and informational resource for persons dealing with traumatic brain injury. This web site hosts information on the latest medical research, diagnostic tests and symptoms and recovery.
• Stroke The American Stroke Association is the division of the American Heart Association that's solely focused on reducing disability and death from stroke through research, education, fundraising and advocacy. Featured on this web site are warning signs, the impact and effects of stroke, and rehabilitation and treatment options.
• Visual ImpairmentThis web site provides consumers with an independent source of trustworthy information on eye health and vision correction options. This web site includes guides to various topics such as visual diseases and problems, nutrition and eyes, parents, teens, and vision over 40.

End Of Life - Information and planning guides on how to prepare for end-of-life care, including pain management, quality of life at the end of life and legal documents.
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• Americans for Better Care of the Dying The organization is committed to ensuring that every person experiences comfort, dignity, and meaning at the end of life, and that every loved one knows that life came to a close in a dignified and meaningful way. Included on their web site are numerous publications, news and events, and public policy information.
• Hospice and Palliative Care The vision of the Organization is to create an America where every individual can value the experience of the end of life. The mission is to advance the art and science of end-of-life care. This web site hosts information on explanation of palliative care, finding a provider, Medicare hospice benefits, and planning and information.
• Partnership for Caring / America's Voices for the Dying The organization seeks to foster a society in which death and dying are respected as significant life-cycle events. Information regarding advance directives, grief and loss, and funeral planning are available.

Grief/Loss - Information on coping with loss and grief.
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• American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Direct link to many articles and pages on the AARP web site dealing with grief and loss.
• Grief Recovery Institute The Institute, an internationally recognized authority, provides programs for The Compassionate Friends, The National SIDS Foundation, The National AIDS Network, The University of California at Irvine, Chapman University, and many others. This web site offers schedules of educational seminars in your area, publications, and other useful resources.

Housing/Extended Care Facilities - Information on various types of long-term care living facilities, licensure, how to choose a nursing home and resources in your area.
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• A Place for Mom A Place for Mom is the nation's largest Eldercare Referral Service. It serves families who are searching for care and housing options for elderly loved ones. The mission is to provide families with information and referrals to care communities that meet their needs. Included on this web site is national search capability for assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and other residential help.
• American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging The Association is committed to advancing the vision of healthy, affordable, ethical aging services for America. Featured on this web site are the importance of planning ahead, aspects of family caregiving, and finding homes and services.
• Care Pathways Created and maintained by Registered Nurses (RNs) dedicated to providing seniors and their families access to quality information, products and services. Included in information on long term care, Alzheimer's care, and staying at home.
• Extended Care Information Network The Network is the first company and market leader to offer Internet solutions and resources that connect hospitals and consumers with extended-care providers, including nursing homes, assisted-living and other senior-living residences, and home health care agencies.
• Medicare Direct link to information regarding long term care, what it is, what to look for, and financial obligations of families.
• My Ziva Complete Nursing Home GuideMyZiva.net was created to provide consumers with information and resources to evaluate and compare Nursing Homes, understand the services that the Nursing Home provides and be informed of how one pays for Nursing Home care.
• Senior Housing Guide Information for finding a senior housing including assisted living, Alzheimer's care units, nursing homes, and other eldercare communities.

Licensure and Accreditation - Information on licensure and accreditation for health care and long term care institutions across the United States.
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• Accreditation Commission for Home Care, Inc. The Commision accredits home health agencies, home infusion companies, home care aide programs, home medical equipment suppliers, specialty pharmacies, hospices and other medical companies.
• Arizona Department of Health Services, Assurance and Licensure Division The ADHS Division of Licensing Services licenses and monitors health and child care facilities and providers throughout Arizona. Licensing inspections, on-site surveys, and complaint investigations are conducted to promote quality care and safety and ensure that performance standards are met for facility operation and maintenance.
• Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations The purpose of the commission is to continuously improve the safety and quality of care provided to the public through the provision of health care accreditation and related services that support performance improvement in health care organizations. Consumers can search on-line by type of provider or service.
• National Committee for Quality Assurance The committee is dedicated to improve the quality of health care delivered to people everywhere. The Vision is to become the most widely trusted source of information driving health care quality improvement.

Additional Resources - Extensive information can be found on the many aspects of caregiving, education, elder care program accreditation, aging and health and safety for older adults.
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• American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) This nonprofit membership organization is dedicated to addressing the needs and interests of persons 50 and older. With a focus on information and education, advocacy and service, it offers numerous resources and links specific to older adults and their families.
• American Geriatric Society The Society is an organization of health care providers dedicated to improving the health and well-being of all older adults. Areas of interests include health links and public policy information.
• American Society on Aging The Society is committed to enhancing the knowledge and skills of those who seek to improve the quality of life of older adults and their families. Features include publications, resources, and diversity initiatives.
• Council on Family Health The Council is a nonprofit organization established to educate consumers about the proper use of nonprescription and prescription medicines, dietary supplements, home safety and personal health. It offers tip sheets and links to other related resources.
• Medication/Prescription Management Benefits Check-up BenefitsCheckUp helps thousands every day to find programs for people ages 55 and over that may pay for some of their costs of prescription drugs, health care, utilities, and other essential items or services. A service of the National Council on Aging (see below).
• National Council on Aging The Council is a national network of organizations and individuals dedicated to improving the health and independence of older persons; increasing their continuing contributions to communities, society and future generations; and building caring communities. It offers and describes programs, events and advocacy efforts serving older adults.
• Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America This organization represents the country's leading research-based pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, which are devoted to inventing medicines that allow patients to live longer, healthier, and more productive lives. This site helps individuals find patient drug assistance programs for which they might qualify.