Aging.gov: A New Resource for Older Americans and Their Families

More than 10,000 people turn 65 in the U.S. every day according to Aging.gov (http://www.hhs.gov/aging/), a website launched by the Obama administration devoted to elder law issues. The goal of this website is to act as gateway for older Americans and their families, friends and caregivers to locate information about leading a healthy lifestyle, options for health care, preventing elder abuse, and retirement planning.

Healthy Aging

Older adults who practice healthy eating habits, physical activity, and involvement in their community help contribute to living a long, productive, and meaningful life. This section of the aging.gov offers links to dietary guidelines for older Americans, the American Dietetic Association, the National Institutes of Health Senior Health website, and resources for volunteering and senior employment.

Health Issues

The Obama administration has argued that, focusing on preventive care, managing health conditions, and understanding medications help contribute to an increased quality of life for older Americans. The health issue section of aging.gov offers links to various Medicare resources (hospital compare, home health compare, dialysis facility compares); information about mental health, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia; other specific diseases, conditions and injuries (arthritis, cancer, diabetes, fall prevention, hearing, heart and lung, HIV/AIDs, vision); and resources for medications (Medicare prescription drug coverage) and treatments.

Long-Term Care

According to the website, long-term care – either through in-home assistance, community programs, or residential facilities – allows you to stay active and accomplish everyday tasks. This section of the website offers links for finding home care and assisted living facilities; resources for caregivers; securing benefits (Benefits.gov, Medicare.gov); planning for long-term care (LongTermCare.gov, Medicaid.gov); veteran’s services; and preparing for end of life (Advance Directives, funeral planning, organ donation).

Elder Justice

Federal government data shows that millions of older Americans encounter abuse, neglect, exploitation, or discrimination each year. The elder justice section of aging.gov offers links to help you identify scams, prevent fraud, address senior housing issues, stop elder abuse, and find legal assistance.

Retirement Planning & Security

Planning for retirement will allow you to enjoy financial security as you age without the risk of outliving your assets, according to data collected by the federal government. Links to useful resources for retirement planning, understanding your employer’s retirement plan, and investing (IRAs, investing wisely for seniors, preventing financial fraud) can be found under the Retirement Planning and Security section of aging.gov.

State Resources

The final section of aging.gov points out that resources to support older Americans and their families, friends and caregivers can vary from state to state and offers links to the departments of aging for all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Final Thoughts on Aging.gov

Aging.gov offers a diverse amount of information to help you or a loved one navigate the challenges of growing older. Instead of randomly searching for guidance and advice, this website is a good starting point for locating more specific information related to aging healthy, wealthy, and wise. And if you need specific legal advice on issue of elder law, call McDonald Law Firm today for a free no obligation consultation with our experience elder law attorney.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION POSTED ON THIS BLOG IS INTENDED FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO CONVEY LEGAL ADVICE.