A roundup of top sites that every caregiver should bookmark

When you need medical information about your loved one’s medical condition fast, the Internet is an invaluable resource. But rather than sort through dozens of results from a search engine, refer to this list for accurate information.

These websites are often extensive, with information for professionals and for patients. Forums, discussion boards, and user groups let users connect with others who might be facing similar concerns. Many also have an “Ask an Expert” section, with answers to common questions.

GENERAL MEDICAL INFORMATION 

Medline Plus
A National Institutes of Health website that contains a wealth of information on diseases, conditions, and wellness issues.

Mayo Clinic
Reliable and comprehensive guide on diseases; also includes a symptom tracker, drug and supplement information, and a community section with discussions on several topics.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and PubMed Health
Up-to-date information about symptoms, diseases, medications, and more, from two government-run websites.

Kevin M.D.
An informative blog with commentary about breaking medical news (not just eldercare), run by Kevin Pho, M.D.

Medhelp.com
A list of forums, including “Ask a Doctor” and support for medical issues, as well as user groups for several conditions and concerns.

American Dietetic Association
Provides a broad spectrum of science-based food and nutrition information; includes tips for managing diseases—from Alzheimer’s, to heart disease and diabetes—through a healthful, nutrient-rich diet.

CAREGIVER SUPPORT

AARP
AARP’s caregiving section has information about everything from public policy and Medicare to online discussion groups.

National Family Caregiving Association
A caregiver advocacy organization website; contains a broadly informative caregiver resources section and four different discussion groups.

Next Step in Care
Is a resource for family caregivers working with health care professionals.

VNSNY
Caring for Aging Parents has several articles, as well as Caregiver Resources

Caregiver’s Corner
A caregiver support site with information and resources.

Senior Care Corner
Tips and ideas for caregivers to help make life better for seniors.
 

COMMON DISEASES

Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia, and Stroke

The Alzheimer’s Association

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral Center, National Institute on Aging

VNSNY: Living with Alzheimer’s Disease

Cancer

American Cancer Society

Cancer Care

National Comprehensive Cancer Network

VNSNY: Living with Cancer

Diabetes

American Diabetes Association

National Diabetes Education Program

American Podiatric Medical Association

National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse

National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health

VNSNY: Living with Diabetes

Heart Disease

American Heart Association

American Society of Hypertension

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 

National Women’s Health Information Center’s Heart Disease Fact Sheet
Heart disease in women often presents with symptoms that are different from men’s, so women tend to underestimate their risk.

VNSNY: Living with Heart Disease

VNSNY: Living with High Blood Pressure

Medical Supplies

Parentgiving
More than just a source for medical supplies to help your loved one remain safely at home, Parentgiving.com has an extensive library of articles about diseases, balancing caregiving with other obligations, and more, and an Ask the Experts section. Read more about it by visiting Parentgiving.com: Home Health Care Resources at Your Fingertips.