10 Great Senior Sites

I really like Smart Money. The articles are timely and relevant. The print can be enlarged for these sometimes-weary eyes. Back in February, 2004, it published 10 online resources for seniors. 4 years later I wouldn't debate the continued wealth of information provided by each of these resources, mostly government and nonprofit organizations and trusted companies.

For instance,

1. Go to Eldercare Locator to find help where you live.

2. Use a national database to find out what benefits you qualify for (veterans' assistance, rent assistance, prescription assistance, etc.).

3. Medicare.gov explains this program simply and in detail. Here you can determine the level of care needed. You can even compare nursing homes.

4. Get help from a reliable nonprofit consumer-advocacy group about how to judge assisted-living facilities.

5. Sign up for Social Security online. Use the benefit calculator to find out how much money you can expect each month. Consider depositing your checks directly into your bank account.

6. Look for articles and references to other websites from ElderWeb.

7. Get your documents (wills, trusts, power of attorney, estate planning, etc.) in order with advice from National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys.

8. Find easy-to-understand articles on AARP's website.

9. Caregivers lives are made easier with the help of geriactic care managers.

10. Get help locally while finding out all about caregiving from the Family Caregiver Alliance.

For 2009, add 50somethinginfo.com. It will give you all the above information in one location!

Natural Disasters and How You Can Prepare For Them

A hurricane, flood, earthquake, fire, or other disaster can strike your area with little if any warning.   The Red Cross has created multiple plans to provide assistance.  In fact, they have preparedness information specifically for seniors and people with disabilities.

In addition, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration on Aging has a comprehensive emergency readiness checklist available for older adults and caregivers.

Find out why older Americans should get ready now, such as:

1. Establishing a personal support network

2. If you are traveling, identify yourself to the registration desk that you may need assistance in the event of an emergency

3. Carrying multiple health cards with you (behind your driver's license or primary ID in your wallet), in your car, and in emergency supply kits which include your medications, equipment you use, allergies and sensitivities, communication difficulties

4. Preparing an emergency contact list, both in and out-of-town, to relay information and messages

5. Collecting and storing in sealed freezer bags your emergency documents including family records, deeds, charge and bank accounts, and social security numbers

6. Pre-assessing your own ability for shutting off utilities (if necessary), using a fire extinguisher, etc.  If you or someone you live with is unable to undertake these duties, take appropriate measures to get assistance.

Don't be a victim of the next natural disaster.  Get ready now.

Aging, It's Better Than the Alternative

"Hey, Haley. Do you like birthdays?"

"Yeah, Grandma. Let's pretend I'm having a birthday."

"Ok, Haley, how old are you going to be?"

"4 1/2"

Hmmm, I think to myself. How did she pass the 4th year unnoticed?

Knowing that her best friend, Rachael, just had her 4th birthday party, I asked, "How old is Rachee?"

"3."

"Isn't she older than you?"

"Yeah."

Okay, so my grandkid isn't the best with numbers. Neither am I (as can be emphatically vouched by my accountant). But we do differ about the concept of aging. She thinks of aging and its obvious relationship to princess birthday parties. I think of aging more short-term, like when my bananas will ripen.

Everyone these days wants to get on the "Aging" bandwagon. And even though I've never professed to being normal, I, too, have taken note of a few prime websites.

For instance, have you ever wondered what's considered normal aging and what's not?

What expert tips does the Prevention Magazine provide about anti-aging?

Which vitamins, minerals, supplements, and herbs are recommended to combat aging?

What's the best overall source of all things aging?

Now it's your turn. Does anyone out there know of a good math tutor for my granddaughter?