Advance Directives

  • Aging with Dignity

    P.O. Box 1661
    Tallahassee, Florida 32302-1661
    888-594-7437
    www.agingwithdignity.org
    The non-profit Aging with Dignity introduced the Five Wishes advance directive in 1997 as an alternative to the traditional approach of advance directives.

  • American Academy of Family Physicians

    P.O. Box 11210
    Shawnee Mission, KS 66207-1210
    800-274-2237
    913-906-6000
    www.aafp.org
    The AAFP has chapters in all States and its purpose is to represent the interests of family physicians and maintain high standards of family practice care. Contact this organization for information on advance directives in your State.

  • Compassion & Choices

    P.O. Box 101810
    Denver, CO 80250-1810
    800-247-7421
    303-639-1202
    www.compassionandchoices.org
    This organization supports, educates and advocates for choice and care at the end of life. Their Client Support Program serves individuals, families and others who may be facing the end of life or planning ahead, including assistance with completing living will/advance directives.

  • U.S. Living Will Registry

    523 Westfield Ave., P.O. Box 2789
    Westfield, NJ 07091-2789
    800-548-9455
    www.uslivingwillregistry.com
    This is a privately held organization that electronically stores advance directives, organ donor information and emergency contact information, and makes them available to health care providers across the country 24 hours a day through an automated system.

Aging Advocacy and Older Adult Organizations

  • AARP

    601 E St. NW
    Washington, D.C. 20049
    888-687-2277
    202-434-2230
    www.aarp.org
    AARP is the nation’s leading organization for people age 50 and older. It serves their needs and interests through information and education, advocacy, and community services provided by a network of local chapters and experienced volunteers throughout the country. The organization also offers members a wide range of benefits and services, including Modern Maturity magazine and the monthly Bulletin.

  • AGS Foundation for Health in Aging

    350 Fifth Avenue
    Suite 801
    New York, NY 10118
    800-563-4916
    212-755-6810
    www.healthinaging.org
    The AGS Foundation for Health in Aging (FHA) is a national non-profit organization established by The American Geriatrics Society (AGS). FHA aims to build a bridge between the research and practice of geriatrics health care professional and the public, and to advocate on behalf of older adults and their special needs: wellness and preventive care, self-responsibility and Independence, and connections to the family and community.

  • Gray Panthers

    1612 K Street, NW, Suite 300
    Washington, DC 20006
    800- 280-5362
    202-737-6637
    www.graypanthers.org
    The Gray Panthers are a unique group of activists combining age and youth in action. They are an international, multi-issue organization working to create a society that puts the needs of people over profit, responsibility over power and democracy over institutions.

  • National Asian Pacific Center on Aging

    1511 Third Avenue
    Suite 914
    Seattle, WA 98101-1626
    206-624-1221
    www.napca.org
    The National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA) is the leading advocacy organization committed to the well-being of elderly Asians and Pacific Islanders in America.

  • National Association for Hispanic Elderly

    234 East Colorado Blvd., Suite 300
    Pasadena, CA 91101
    800-953-8553
    626-564-1988
    www.anppm.org
    This national, private, non-profit organization focuses on the needs of older Hispanic people and other low-income elderly.

  • National Council on Aging

    1901 L. Street, NW, 4th Floor
    Washington, D.C. 20036
    202-479-1200
    www.ncoa.org
    NCOA is a private, nonprofit association of some 3,500 member organizations and individuals, serving as a national voice and powerful advocate on behalf of older Americans. Their Web site has information on healthy aging, staying independent, work and volunteering and benefits for seniors.

  • National Caucus and Center on Black Aged

    1220 L Street NW, Suite 800
    Washington, DC 20005
    202-637-8400
    www.ncba-aged.org
    The NCBA provides advocacy on a wide range of issues affecting the lives of older African Americans and low-income minority seniors.

  • National Hispanic Council on Aging

    2713 Ontario Rd. NW
    Washington, D.C. 20009
    202-265-1288
    www.nhcoa.org
    This non-profit organization advocates on behalf of older Hispanic adults through the building of support networks and promoting of high-quality services.

  • National Indian Council on Aging

    10501 Montgomery Blvd., NE, Suite 210
    Albuquerque, NM 87111
    505-292-2001
    www.nicoa.org
    The National Indian Council On Aging, Inc. (NICOA), a non-profit organization, was founded in 1976 to advocate for improved, comprehensive health and social services to American Indian and Alaska Native Elders.

  • Older Women’s League

    1750 New York Ave. NW
    Suite 350
    Washington, DC 20006
    800-825-3695
    www.owl-national.org
    This organization advocates for economic and social equality of midlife and elderly women and offers information on issues such as women’s health and caregiving and provides some referrals.

  • Senior Action in a Gay Environment

    305 7th Avenue, 16th Floor
    New York, NY 10001
    212-741-2247
    www.sageusa.org
    SAGE is the world’s oldest and largest non-profit agency addressing the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender elders.

  • SPRY Foundation (Setting Priorities for Retirement Years)

    3916 Rosemary Street
    Chevy Chase, MD 20815
    301-656-3405
    www.spry.org
    SPRY is a national nonprofit foundation whose mission is to help adults plan for a healthy and financially secure future.

  • U.S. Administration on Aging

    Department of Health and Human Services
    330 Independence Avenue, S.W.
    Washington, DC 20201
    800-677-1116
    202-619-0724
    www.aoa.gov
    The Administration on Aging (AOA) is the only federal agency devoted exclusively to the concerns and potential for older Americans. Also, serves as an information resource to the public and professionals in aging.

Alcohol and Drug Abuse

  • Al-Anon Family Groups, Inc.

    1600 Corporate Landing Parkway
    Virginia Beach, VA 23454-5617
    888-425-2666
    757-563-1600
    www.al-anon.alateen.org
    Al-Anon is a mutual support program for persons who are affected by the compulsive drinking of a family member or friend. Groups provide direct services to individuals, family and friends of alcoholics, by providing information on alcoholism and sharing experience in coping with the disease, and by providing the opportunity to learn to grow spiritually. Alateen, a part of Al-Anon Family Groups, helps teenage sons and daughters of alcoholics to cope with problems in their homes.

  • Alcoholics Anonymous

    P.O. Box 459
    Grand Central Station
    New York, NY 10163
    212-870-3400
    www.aa.org
    Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experiences, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. There are no dues or fees for AA membership.

  • Families Anonymous, Inc.

    P.O. Box 3475
    Culver City, CA 90231-3475
    800-736-9805
    www.FamiliesAnonymous.org
    This is a mutual support group for families of people involved in drug abuse and related behavioral problems. There are no fees or dues for group membership.

  • Narcotics Anonymous

    P.O. Box 9999
    Van Nuys, CA 91409
    818-773-9999
    www.na.org
    Narcotics Anonymous (NA) is a nonprofit, international organization created to help people stop using drugs.

  • National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information

    P.O. Box 2345
    Rockville, MD 20847
    800-729-6686
    ncadi.samhsa.gov
    This federal clearinghouse has publications on alcoholism and drug use. The main focus of the information is prevention, but there are some materials on treatment as well.

  • National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc.

    244 East 58th Street 4th Floor
    New York, NY 10022
    800-475-HOPE
    800-622-2255
    212-269-7797
    www.ncadd.org
    This is a national, nonprofit organization combating alcoholism, other drug addictions, and related problems.

  • National Substance Abuse Web Site

    164 W. 74th St.
    New York, NY 10023
    www.drughelp.org
    This Web site gives general information regarding substance abuse, treatment referrals, inpatient and outpatient programs, self-help groups, family support groups and crisis centers nationwide.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia

  • Alzheimer’s Association

    225 N Michigan Avenue
    17th Floor
    Chicago, IL 60601-7633
    800-272-3900
    312-335-8700
    www.alz.org
    The Alzheimer’s Association is a nonprofit organization founded to heighten public awareness of this degenerative brain disorder, including information on dementia, provide support for patients and their families and aid research efforts. They also maintain a toll-free 24-hour nformation and referral telephone number which provides information packets and referral to the nearest Association Chapter.

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

    P.O. Box 8250
    Silver Spring, MD 20907-8250
    800-438-4380
    301-495-3311
    www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers
    The ADEAR Center, a service of the National Institute on Aging, provides accurate, up-to-date information about Alzheimer’s disease (AD), dementia and related disorders to patients and their families, caregivers, health care providers, and the public.

Arthritis and Osteoporosis

  • Arthritis Foundation

    P.O. Box 7669
    Atlanta, GA 30357-0669
    800-283-7800
    404-872-7100 x 7888
    www.arthritis.org
    The Arthritis Foundation offers a large number of programs and services to help people take control of their arthritis and publishes a variety of in-depth booklets and books about living and coping with arthritis.

  • National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Information Clearinghouse

    1 AMS Circle
    Bethesda, MD 20892-3675
    877-226-4267
    301-495-4484
    www.niams.nih.gov
    This clearinghouse provides information about various forms of arthritis and rheumatic disease and bone, muscle, and skin diseases. It distributes patient and professional education materials and refers people to other sources of information.

  • National Osteoporosis Foundation

    1232 22nd Street, NW
    Washington, D.C. 20037-1202
    8800-223-9994
    202-721-6359
    www.nof.org
    This foundation seeks to increase public awareness about osteoporosis; provide information about osteoporosis and conduct public and professional education programs.

  • NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases – National Resource Center

    2 AMS Circle
    Bethesda, MD 20892-3675
    800-624-2663
    202-223-0344
    www.bones.nih.gov
    This National Resource Center provides patients, health professionals, and the public with an important link to resources and information on metabolic bone diseases.

Assistive Devices

  • Abledata

    8630 Fenton St, Suite 930
    Silver Spring, MD 20910
    800-227-0216
    301-608-8998
    www.abledata.com
    The Abledata project provides information resources on assistive devices and rehabilitation equipment products for people with disabilities, including the Abledata database of product information, and includes detailed information on products for use in all aspects of independent living, including personal care, transportation, communication and recreation.

  • American Foundation for the Blind

    11 Penn Plaza
    Suite 300
    New York, NY 10001
    800-232-5463
    212-502-7600
    212-502-7662 (Voice – TDD)
    www.afb.org
    The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1921 to improve services for people who are blind or visually impaired, conduct research, and inform the public. They respond to questions about access, rehabilitation, education, assistive technology, employment, low-vision services, and other issues relating to blindness.

  • Starkey Hearing Foundation

    6700 Washington Ave., South
    Eden Prairie, MN 55344
    800-648-4327
    952-947-4903
    952-828-6946 (FAX)
    www.sotheworldmayhear.org
    HEAR NOW, a division of the Starkey Hearing Foundation, serves any persons legally residing in the U.S. for hearing assistance based on qualifying factors.

Cancer

  • American Cancer Society

    250 Williams Street NW
    Atlanta, GA 30303-1002
    800-227-2345
    1-866-228-4327 (Voice – TTY)
    www.cancer.org
    ACS is the voluntary organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem. The Society conducts service and rehabilitation programs for cancer patients and their families.

  • Association of Cancer Online Resources

    173 Duane Street
    Suite 3A
    New York, NY 10013-3334
    212-226-5525
    www.acor.org
    This Web site provides patients and their families with access to numerous cancer-specific mailing lists and resources.

  • CancerCare

    275 Seventh Avenue
    New York, NY 10001
    800-813-HOPE (Voice – Toll-free), Cancer Care Counseling Line
    212-221-3300
    www.cancercare.org
    CancerCare is a national non-profit organization that provides free, professional support services for anyone affected by Cancer.

  • Mesothelioma Center

    20 N. Orange Ave.
    Orlando, FL 32801
    407-965-5755
    www.asbestos.com
    The Mesothiloma Center is an up-to-date resource for all issues ranging from mesothelioma statistics to treatment options. A recent statistic showed that 85% of all mesothelioma cancer cases occur in senior citizens. Take a few moments to brouse through our support section to locate answers to your concerns.

  • National Cancer Institute

    6116 Executive Boulevard
    Room 3036A
    Bethesda, MD 20892-8322
    800-4-CANCER (800-422-6237 Toll-free)
    877-448-7848 (Voice – Toll-free)
    800-322-8615 (Voice – TTY)
    www.cancer.gov
    The NCI has a toll-free telephone service, 1-800-4CANCER, and a Web site to provide accurate information on a range of cancer topics, including the most recent advances in cancer treatment.

  • The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

    1311 Mamaroneck Ave
    White Plains, NY 10605
    800-955-4572
    www.leukemia.orf
    The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS) is the world's largest voluntary health agency dedicated to blood cancer. The LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.

Caregivers and Caregiving

  • ARCH National Respite Network

    800 Eastowne Drive, Suite 105
    Chapel Hill, NC 27514
    919-490-5577
    www.chtop.org
    This organization helps parents, caregivers, and professionals find respite services in their state and local area to match their specific needs. Respite care provides a break for caregivers and families.

  • Children of Aging Parents

    P.O. Box 167
    Richboro, PA 18954
    800-227-7294
    215-355-6611
    www.CAPS4caregivers.org
    CAPS was founded in 1977 to assist caregivers of the elderly. They provide information and referrals for caregivers.

  • Eldercare Locator

    800-677-1116
    www.eldercare.gov
    The Eldercare Locator connects older Americans and their caregivers with sources of information on senior services and local agencies.

  • Family Caregiver Alliance

    180 Montgomery Street
    Suite 1100
    San Francisco, CA 94104
    800-445-8106
    415-434-3388
    www.caregiver.org
    FCA offers information on current social, public policy and caregiving issues and provides assistance in the development of public and private programs for caregivers.

  • National Adult Day Services Association, Inc.

    85 South Washington, Suite 316
    Seattle, WA 98104
    877-745-1440
    www.nadsa.org
    This association provides information on adult day services and referrals for local adult day care facilities.

  • National Alliance for Caregiving

    4720 Montgomery Lane, Suite 205
    Bethesda, MD 20814
    www.caregiving.org
    Established in 1996, the National Alliance for Caregiving is a non-profit coalition of national organizations focusing on issues of family caregiving. The Alliance was created to conduct research, do policy analysis, develop national programs, and increase public awareness of family caregiving issues. Recognizing that family caregivers make important societal and financial contributions toward maintaining the well-being of those for whom they care, the Alliance’s mission is to be the objective national resource on family caregiving with the goal of improving the quality of life for families and care recipients.

  • National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers

    1604 N Country Club Rd.
    Tucson, AZ 85716
    520-881-8008
    www.caremanager.org
    Professional Geriatric Care Managers (PGCM) are specialists who help families care for older relatives. This Web site describes the profession of geriatric care management and will help locate a PGCM in your area.

  • National Association of Social Workers

    750 First St. NE, Suite 700
    Washington, D.C. 20002
    800-742-4089
    www.naswdc.org
    This Web site can help locate social workers who specialize in geriatrics.

  • National Family Caregivers Association

    4720 Montgomery Lane, Suite 205
    Bethesda, MD 20814
    800-896-3650
    301-942-6430
    www.thefamilycaregiver.org
    The NFCA is a grassroots organization dedicated to improving the overall quality of life of caregiving families.

  • Well Spouse Foundation

    63 West Main Street, Suite H
    Freehold, NJ 07728
    www.wellspouse.org
    The foundation offers support to people caring for a chronically ill and/or disabled spouse.

Death and Dying

  • Caring Connections

    1700 Diagonal Road, Suite 625
    Alexandria, VA 22314
    800-658-8898
    703-837-1500
    877-658-8896 (Multilingual Line)
    www.caringinfo.org
    Caring Connections provides free resources and information to help people make decisions about end-of-life care and services before a crisis.

  • Compassion & Choices

    P.O. Box 101810
    Denver, CO 80250-1810
    800-247-7421
    303-639-1202
    www.compassionandchoices.org
    This organization serves individuals, families and others who may be facing the end of life or planning ahead. They support comprehensive pain control and palliative care, and legal aid in dying if suffering is unbearable.

Dentistry

  • Academy of General Dentistry

    211 East Chicago Avenue
    Suite 900
    Chicago, IL 60611-1999
    888-243-3368
    www.agd.org
    The AGD is a source for dental health information and serves to advocate on dental issues. Current dental health information and referrals to a dental care provider are available online.

  • American Dental Association

    211 East Chicago Ave.
    Chicago, IL 60611-2678
    312-440-2500
    www.ada.org
    The ADA’s Web site has information on oral health topics and allows you to locate a local dentist.

Diabetes

  • American Association of Diabetes Educators

    100 West Monroe
    Suite 400
    Chicago, IL 60603-1901
    800-338-3633
    800-TEA-MUP4, referral to a Diabetes Educator
    www.aadenet.org
    The AADE provides diabetes education and information. Individuals with diabetes can contact (800) TEAM UP 4 for a referral to a diabetes educator in their area.

  • American Diabetes Association

    1701 North Beauregard Street
    Alexandria, VA 22311
    800-DIABETES
    703-549-1500
    www.diabetes.org
    The ADA provides patient educational programs and publishes a variety of information on diabetes topics.

  • National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institute of Health

    1 Information Way
    Bethesda, MD 20892-3560
    800-860-8747
    800-891-5389
    800-891-5390
    www2.niddk.nih.gov
    The NIDDK is a national clearinghouse providing information about diabetes to people with diabetes and to their families, health care professionals and the public.

Disability Information

  • DisabilityInfo.gov

    www.disabilityinfo.gov
    This Web site provides quick and easy access to comprehensive information about disability programs, services, laws and benefits. You can also locate disability resources in your local area.

  • Disability Resources, Inc.

    Four Glatter Lane
    Centereach, NY 11720-1032
    631-585-0290
    www.disabilityresources.org
    This organization disseminates information about books, pamphlets, magazines, newsletters, videos, databases, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, telephone hotlines and on-line services that provide free, inexpensive or hard-to-find information to help people with disabilities live independently.

  • National Rehabilitation Association

    633 South Washington Street
    Alexandria, VA 22314-4193
    888-258-4295 (Voice – Toll-free)
    703-836-0850 (Voice)
    703-836-0849 (Voice – TDD)
    www.nationalrehab.org
    The NRA promotes the vocational rehabilitation of persons with disabilities through advocacy, professional development, and public education.

  • Office of Disability Employment Policy, U.S. Department of Labor

    200 Constitution Avenue, NW
    Washington, DC 20210
    866-633-7365 (Voice – Toll-free)
    202-693-7880 (Voice)
    202-693-7881 (Voice – TDD)
    877-889-5627 (TTY)
    www.dol.gov/odep
    ODEP acts as a catalyst for job information for people with disabilities through outreach and education and the promotion and development of best practices.

Driving and Transportation

  • AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety

    607 14th Street NW
    Suite 201
    Washington, D.C. 20005
    800-305-7233
    202-638-5944
    www.aaafoundation.org
    The foundation provides a variety of focused, high-impact educational materials for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists and other road users. Their Web site, www.seniordrivers.org, has information for seniors, as well as links to other helpful online resources.

  • U.S. Department of Transportation

    1200 New Jersey Ave, SE
    Washington, DC 20590
    866-377-8642
    202-366-4000
    www.dot.gov
    The Department of Transportation provides information on a wide variety of transportation topics, including accessibility, driving, flying and travel.

Elder Abuse and Fraud

  • Esther Johnson Elderly Abuse Legal Defense Fund

    410 Lexington Street
    Waltham, MA 02452
    781-894-4552
    www.elderlyabuse.com
    This Web site combines a families’ real life story of elderly abuse and provides resources to help elders who are being abused in any way.

  • Federal Trade Commission

    600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
    Washington, DC 20580
    877-438-4338
    877-FTC-HELP
    202-326-2222
    www.ftc.gov
    The FTC investigates consumer complaints, develops consumer education programs and protects consumers from unfair or deceptive business practices.

  • National Center on Elder Abuse

    University of Delaware
    297 Graham Hall
    Newark, DE 19716
    302-831-3525
    800-677-1116 (Help Hotline)
    www.ncea.aoa.gov
    Directed by the U.S. Administration on Aging, the NCEA is a national resource for elder rights, law enforcement and legal professions and the public.

Financial

  • BenefitsCheckUp

    A Service of the National Council on Aging
    www.benefitscheckup.org
    This Web site is the nation’s most comprehensive Web-based service to screen for benefits programs for seniors with limited income and resources.

  • Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards

    1425 K Street, NW, Suite 500
    Washington, DC 20005
    800-487-1497
    www.cfp.net
    This regulatory board oversees the licensing of certified financial planners, handles consumer complaints, provides information about financial planning and gives referrals to CFPs.

  • Financial Industry Regulatory Authority

    1735 K Street
    Washington, DC 20006
    301-590-6500
    www.finra.org
    FINRA is the largest non-governmental regulator for all securities firms doing business in the United States. They are dedicated to investor protection and market integrity through effective and efficient regulation and complementary compliance and technology-based services.

  • GovBenefits

    Your Benefits Connection
    www.govbenefits.gov
    GovBenefits is the official benefits website of the U.S. government, with information on over 1,000 benefit assistance programs.

  • Internal Revenue Service

    800-829-1040
    www.irs.gov
    The IRS Web site has online tax information, tax tips, tax help and forms, or you can call their toll-free number for assistance.

  • National Foundation for Consumer Credit Counseling

    801 Roeder Road, Suite 900
    Silver Springs, MD 20910
    800-388-2227
    301-589-5600
    www.nfcc.org
    The NFCC provides local referrals to credit counseling services, which provide free or low-cost counseling on budgeting and debt management.

  • Pension Rights Center

    1350 Connecticut Avenue, NW
    Suite 206
    Washington, D.C. 20036-1739
    202-296-3776
    www.pensionrights.org
    This is the nation’s only consumer organization dedicated solely to protecting and promoting the retirement security of American workers, retirees and their families. The Center’s Pension Action initiatives help grass roots groups to campaign to end unfair pension practices and advocate for cost of living adjustments. Through the Center’s Pension Help program, they make sure that people receive the retirement benefits they have earned.

  • Securities and Exchange Commission

    100 F Street, NE
    Washington, D.C. 20549
    202-942-7040
    www.sec.gov
    The mission of the SEC is to protect investors, maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and facilitate capital reform.

Foot Care

  • American Podiatric Medical Association, Inc.

    9312 Old Georgetown Road
    Bethesda, MD 20814-1621
    800-366-FOOTCARE
    301-530-2752
    www.apma.org
    The APMA is the primary resource for foot health information and locating a podiatrist in your area.

Funeral Information

  • Funeral Consumers Alliance

    33 Patchen Road
    South Burlington, VT 05403
    800-765-0107
    www.funerals.org
    This is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting a consumer’s right to choose a meaningful, dignified, affordable funeral. The FCA’s Web site has blogs and resources for consumers to research funeral planning.

  • National Funeral Directors Association

    13625 Bishop’s Drive
    Brookfield, WI 53005-6607
    800-228-6332
    262-789-1880
    www.nfda.org
    The NFDA provides a national voice for the funeral profession and is dedicated to serving the public by providing information across all facets of the funeral industry, including referrals funeral directors.

Hearing and Speech

  • American Academy of Audiology

    11730 Plaza American Drive, Suite 300
    Reston, VA 20190
    800-AAA-2336
    202-544-9334
    www.audiology.org
    This professional organization promotes quality hearing and balance care through advocacy, public awareness and education.

  • American Hearing Research Foundation

    8 South Michigan Avenue, Suite #814
    Chicago, IL 60603-4539
    312-726-9670
    http://www.american-hearing.org
    This is a not-for-profit organization whose Web site provides general information on many common ear disorders.

  • American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

    2200 Research Boulevard
    Rockville, MD 20850-3289
    800-638-8255
    301-296-5700
    301-296-5650 (Text Telephone Communication Device)
    www.asha.org
    A membership credentialing association or audiologists and speech pathologists, this organization provides general information on communication and related disorders and makes referrals to audiologists and speech pathologists.

  • American Tinnitus Association

    P. O. Box 5
    Portland, OR 97207-0005
    800-634-8978
    www.ata.org
    The ATA is a nonprofit organization working to cure tinnitus.

  • Better Hearing Institute

    1444 I Street, NW, Suite 700
    Washington, DC 20005
    202-449-1100
    800-EARWELL
    www.betterhearing.org
    This is a not-for-profit corporation that educates the public about the neglected problem of hearing loss and what can be done about it.

  • National Association of the Deaf

    8630 Fenton Street, Suite 820
    Silver Spring, MD 20910
    301-587-1788 (Voice)
    301-587-1789 (TTY)
    www.nad.org
    The NAD is a nonprofit federation whose mission is to preserve, protect, and promote the civil, human, and linguistic rights of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the U.S.

  • National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders

    31 Center Drive, MSC 2320
    Bethesda, MD 20892-2320
    800-241-1044 (Voice)
    800-241-1055 (TTY)
    www.nidcd.nih.gov
    The NIDCD is a part of the National Institutes of Health, and provides information on communication impairments and disorders.

Heart Disease

  • American Heart Association

    7272 Greenville Avenue
    Dallas, TX 75231
    800-242-8721
    www.americanheart.org
    The association’s mission is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular disease and stroke. They offer information on heart attack and stroke warning signs, blood pressure, nutrition, cholesterol, heart disease and healthy lifestyle.

  • National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

    P.O. Box 30105
    Bethesda, MD 20824-0105
    301-592-8573
    240-629-3255 (TTY)
    www.nhlbi.nih.gov
    The NHLBI provides leadership for a national program in diseases of the heart, blood vessels, lung, and blood; blood resources; and sleep disorders.

Home Health Care

  • National Association for Home Care and Hospice

    228 Seventh Street, SE
    Washington, DC 20003
    202-547-7424
    www.nahc.org
    This is a trade association representing a wide range of home care organizations and businesses and they provide referrals for home care services.

  • National Private Duty Association (NPDA)

    941 East 86th Street, Suite 270
    Indianapolis, IN 46240
    317-663-3637
    www.privatedutyhomecare.org
    The NPDA is a an association for both home health care and non-medical home services such as companion care, elder care, and in-home assisted living services.

  • Visiting Nurse Associations of America

    900 19th Street, NW, Suite 200
    Washington, DC 20006
    www.vnaa.org
    This association of Visiting Nurse Agencies (VNA’s) and home healthcare providers treat and care for approximately 4 million patients annually. Their mission is to support, promote and advance the nation’s network of VNAs who provide cost-effective and compassionate home healthcare to the elderly and individuals with disabilities.

Home Modification and Safety

  • National Association of Home Builders

    1201 15th Street, NW
    Washington, DC 20005
    800-368-5242
    202-266-8200
    www.nahb.org
    The NAHB provides information on home modification for people preferring to age-in-place, regardless of age or ability level. They can refer you to a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) to develop strategies for remodeling or modifying your home.

  • National Resource Center on Supportive Housing and Home Modification

    3715 McClintock Avenue
    Los Angeles, CA 90089-0191
    213-740-1364
    www.homemods.org
    This Web site is dedicated to promoting aging in place and independent living for persons of all ages and abilities.

Hospice

  • Hospice Foundations of America

    1621 Connecticut Ave., NW
    Suite 300
    Washington, DC 20009
    800-854-3402
    www.hospicefoundation.org
    The foundation provides information and programs to assist individual consumers of health care who are coping with issues of caregiving, terminal illness, and grief. They provide information on hospice and referrals to hospice services.

  • National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization

    1731 King Street, Suite 100
    Alexandria, VA 22314
    703-837-1500
    800-658-8898 (Help Line)
    877-658-8896 (Multilingual Help Line)
    www.nhpco.org
    This organization is committed to improving end of life care and expanding access to hospice and palliative care. They provide information about hospice care and can make referrals to local hospices.

Housing Options

  • American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging

    2519 Connecticut Avenue, NW
    Washington, D.C. 20008-1520
    202-783-2242
    www.aahsa.org
    The AAHSA is committed to advancing the vision of healthy, affordable, ethical, long-term care for America.

  • Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities/Continuing Care Accreditation Commission

    1730 Rhode Island Avenue NW, Suite 209
    Washington, D.C. 20036
    202-587-5001
    866-888-1122
    www.carf.org
    This commission provides accreditation of rehabilitation facilities, aging services and continuing care retirement communities.

  • National Shared Housing Resource Center

    www.nationalsharedhousing.org
    Shared housing programs can be an affordable and viable alternative for people faced with losing their independence and struggling to keep housing costs within their budget. This Web site explains shared housing and how to find a program in your area.

Incontinence

  • American Urological Association Foundation

    1000 Corporate Boulevard
    Linthicum, MD 21090
    800-828-7866
    www.AUAFoundation.org
    The AUA Foundation provides extensive information on urological conditions. The Urology Health Line connects you to a live service representative, where you can ask specific questions about any urologic questions. Call 1-800-828-7866 and select option 1 to reach the Urology Health Line. They also offer online webinars featuring prominent urologists discussing a variety of urologic topics. To participate in a live webinar or view a pre-recorded webinar, go to www.urologyHealth.org.

  • International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

    P.O. Box 170864
    Milwaukee, WI 53217-8076
    414-964-1799
    888-964-2001
    www.iffgd.org
    The IFFGD provides information, assistance and support for people affected by gastrointestinal disorders. Visit their Web site to access information on constipation, Acid Reflux Disease (GERD), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and other gastrointestinal disorders.

  • National Association for Continence

    P.O. Box 1019
    Charleston, SC 29402-1019
    800-BLADDER
    www.nafc.org
    NAFC’s purpose is to be the leading source for public education and advocacy about the causes, prevention, diagnosis, treatments, and management alternatives for incontinence. The NAFC also provides referrals to healthcare professionals specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of incontinence.

Insurance

  • America’s Health Insurance Plans

    601 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
    South Building Suite 500
    Washington, DC 20004
    202-331-7487
    www.ahip.org
    Primarily for health insurance consumers, the AHIP offers visitors easy and convenient access to a variety of insurance products designed to help people manage their healthcare coverage decisions.

  • Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program

    P.O. Box 797
    Greenland, NH 03840-0797
    800-582-3337
    800-843-3557 (TTY)
    www.ltcfeds.com
    This program offers information about the Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program for active and retired members of the uniformed services, Federal and U.S. Postal Service employees. You can speak with a live Certified Long Term Care Insurance Consultant for help in enrolling in the program.

  • Health Care Coach.com

    www.healthcarecoach.org
    This Web site provides useful consumer information on healthcare insurance, women’s health, managing changes and lowering costs.

  • Insurance Information Institute

    110 William Street
    New York, NY 10038
    800-331-9146
    212-346-5500
    www.iii.org
    The III provides information on all insurance related subjects. The Institute publishes a host of helpful pamphlets and books ranging in subjects from 9 Ways to Lower Your Auto Insurance Costs to the III Fact Book.

Legal

  • American Bar Association

    321 North Clark Street
    Chicago, IL 60654-7598
    312-988-5522
    800-285-2221
    www.abanet.org
    The ABA is an association for lawyers and judges. You can check accreditation status of attorneys and receive referrals at their Web site.

  • National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys

    1577 Spring Hill Road, Suite 220
    Vienna, VA 22182
    703-942-5711
    www.naela.com
    This association assists lawyers, bar organizations and others who work with older clients and their families. The offer information on the specialized issues involved with the legal services to seniors and people with special needs.

Lung Disease

  • American Lung Association

    61 Broadway, 6th Floor
    New York, NY 10006
    800-LUNGUSA
    800-548-8252 (Help Line)
    212-315-8700
    www.lungusa.org
    The association informs and educates the public about the impact and prevention of lung disease through their Web site, public service announcements, publications and broadcasts.

Medical Information

  • Healthfinder.gov

    www.healthfinder.gov
    Solely supported by funds from the U.S. government, this Web site has resources on a wide range of medical topics and a health information referral service.

  • Medline Plus

    www.medlineplus.gov
    This Web site has extensive information about drugs, an illustrated medical encyclopedia, interactive patient tutorials, and the latest health news.

  • National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

    P.O. Box 7923
    Gaithersburg, MD 20898
    888-644-6226
    866-464-3615 (for hearing impaired)
    www.nccam.nih.gov
    The NCCAM is the Federal Government’s lead agency for scientific research on the diverse medical health care systems, practices, and products that are not generally considered part of conventional medicine. Information Specialists at the above phone number can answer questions about the Center and complementary and alternative medicine.

  • National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc.

    55 Kenosia Avenue
    P.O. Box 1968
    Danbury, CT 06813-1968
    203-744-0100
    800-999-6673 (Voicemail Only)
    203-797-9590 (TDD)
    www.rarediseases.org
    NORD provides information about diseases, referral to patient organizations, advocacy for the rare-disease community, and Medication Assistance Programs that help needy patients obtain certain drugs they could not otherwise afford.

  • WebMD

    www.webmd.com
    This Web site offers credible and in-depth medical news, features, reference material, and online community programs.

Medicare and Social Security

  • Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services

    7500 Security Boulevard
    Baltimore, MD 21244-1850
    877-267-2323
    410-786-3000
    866-226-1819 (TTY)
    www.cms.hhs.gov
    The CMS administers Medicare, Medicaid and related programs. They ensure beneficiaries are aware of the services for which they are eligible, that services are available and provided in an effective manner.

  • Medicare Rights Center

    520 Eighth Avenue, North Wing, 3rd Floor
    New York, NY 10018
    800-333-4114 (Help Hotline)
    212-869-3850
    www.medicarerights.org
    The MRC provides hotline counseling services to people with questions, concerns, and problems regarding Medicare.

  • Social Security Administration

    6401 Security Building
    Baltimore, MD 21235
    800-772-1213
    800-325-0778
    www.ssa.gov
    The Social Security Administration provides public information materials about the Social Security and supplemental security income (SSI) programs, as well as information on entitlement to Medicare.

Mental Health

  • American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry

    7910 Woodmont Avenue
    Suite 1050
    Bethesda, MD 20814-3004
    301-654-7850
    www.aagponline.org
    This association is dedicated to promoting mental health and well-being of older people and improving the care of those with late-life mental disorders. You can find information on dementia and other mental health issues on its Web site, as well as referrals to local health care professionals.

  • American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy

    112 South Alfred Street
    Alexandria, VA 22314
    703-838-9808
    www.aamft.org
    This association is primarily for professionals in the field of marriage and family therapy. They can provide referrals to healthcare professionals in your area.

  • American Psychological Association

    750 First Street, NE
    Washington, DC 200002-4242
    800-374-2721
    202-336-5500
    202-336-6123 (TDD/TTY)
    www.apa.org
    The APA is a scientific and professional organization that represents psychology in the United States.

  • Mental Health America

    200 N. Beauregard Street, 6th Floor
    Alexandria, VA 22311
    703-684-7722
    800-969-6642
    800-433-5959 (TTY)
    800-273-TALK (Help/Crisis Line)
    www.nmha.org
    Mental Health America promotes mental wellness and provides support to individuals and families living with mental health and substance abuse problems.

  • National Alliance for the Mentally Ill

    2107 Wilson Boulevard
    Suite 300
    Arlington, VA 22201-3042
    800-950-6264
    703-524-7600
    703-516-7227
    www.nami.org
    NAMI is a network of local support groups for the mentally ill and their families.

Nursing Homes and Assisted Living

  • Assisted Living Federation of America

    1650 King Street
    Suite 602
    Alexandria, VA 22314-2747
    703-894-1805
    www.alfa.org
    As the largest national association exclusively dedicated to professionally operated assisted living communities for seniors, ALFA provides an interactive directory of professionally managed senior living communities. ALFA  works to influence public policy by advocating for informed choice, quality care, and accessibility for all Americans. Call or visit their Web site for information.

  • National Citizen’s Coalition for Nursing Home Reform

    1828 L. Street, NW, Suite 801
    Washington, D.C. 20036
    202-332-2276
    www.nccnhr.org
    The NCCNHR advocates for improved care and life for residents of nursing homes and other long term care facilities.

  • Nursing Home Compare

    www.medicare.gov/NHCompare/home
    This Website address will link you directly to Nursing Home Compare where you can find detailed information about every Medicare and Medicaid-certified nursing home in the U.S., as well as alternatives to nursing homes.

Nutrition, Food Safety and Meal Services

  • Centers for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition

    5100 Paint Branch Parkway HFS-555
    College Park, MD 20740-3835
    888-723-3366
    www.cfsan.fda.gov
    Part of the FDA, this center offers excellent information on nutrition and food safety for seniors.

  • Food and Nutrition Service

    3101 Park Center Drive
    Alexandria, VA 22302
    703-305-2062
    703-305-2052
    www.fns.usda.gov
    This division of the USDA is responsible for food assistance programs and nutrition education efforts.

  • Meals on Wheels Association of America

    203 S. Union Street
    Alexandria, VA 22314
    703-548-5558
    www.mowaa.org
    The association provides support for local meals on wheels programs that deliver food to seniors, and provide leadership to solve complexities of senior hunger.

  • Nutrition.gov

    www.nutrition.gov
    The Nutrition.gov Web site provides access to specialized nutrition information for seniors, including tips for shopping, cooking and meal preparation.

Parkinsons's Disease

  • American Parkinson Disease Association, Inc.

    135 Parkinson Avenue
    Staten Island, NY 10305
    800-223-2732 (Local Information & Referral Center)
    718-981-8001
    www.apdaparkinson.org
    The association provides information on Parkinson’s disease and patient support networks. Their toll-free number above gives local information and referrals to support groups and health care professionals specializing in Parkinson’s disease.

  • National Parkinson Foundation, Inc.

    1501 N.W. 9th Avenue
    Bob Hope Road
    Miami, FL 33136-1494
    305-243-6666
    800-327-4545
    www.parkinson.org
    NFP supports Parkinson’s-related research, patient care, education, training, and outreach. Their Web site includes such interactive features as Ask the Doctor, Ask the Surgeon, and Ask the Parkinson Dietician. They also provide, free of charge to anyone who requests them, Parkinson’s pamphlets covering a variety of topics of interest to the Parkinson’s community, patients and families.

Senior Health and Activities

  • Elderhostel/Exploritas

    11 Avenue De Lafayette
    Boston, MA 02111
    800-454-5768
    www.elderhostel.org
    The Elderhostel organization offers information on travel packages and educational programs specifically geared for seniors.

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Healthy Aging Program

    4770 Buford Highway
    N.E., Mailstop K-45
    Atlanta, GA 30341-3717
    404-639-3534
    800-311-3455
    www.cdc.gov/aging/info.htm
    The Healthy Aging Program from the CDC provides in depth information and articles related to health information for older adults.

  • Go60.com

    335 Old Quarry Rd. N.
    Larkspur, CA 94939
    415-464-0511
    www.go60.com
    This internet destination is devoted to helping seniors improve with age.

  • National Parks Conservation Association

    1300 19th Street, NW
    Suite 300
    Washington, DC 20036
    202-223-6622
    800-628-7275
    www.npca.org
    The NPCA provides information and travel packages to our National Parks.

  • National Senior Games Association

    P.O. Box 82054
    Baton Rouge, LA 70884-2059
    225-766-6800
    www.nsga.com
    The NSGA is a non-profit member of the United States Olympic Committee dedicated to motivating senior men and women to lead a healthy lifestyle through the senior games movement.

  • SeniorJobBank

    www.seniorjobbank.org
    This Web site assists job seekers over the age of 50 find jobs and provides online career and education information.

  • SeniorNet

    www.seniornet.org
    SeniorNet provides older adults education for and access to computer technologies to enhance their lives and enable them to share their knowledge and wisdom.

  • Senior Service America, Inc.

    8403 Colesville Road
    Suite 1200
    Silver Spring, MD 20910
    301-578-8900
    www.seniorserviceamerica.org
    This non-profit organization provides civic engagement and employment opportunities for adults over the age of 55 who wish to re-enter the workforce. The SSAI operates in 16 states and you can find a listing of the local sponsors with which SSAI partners to provide services on its’ Web site.

  • USA.gov Senior Citizens’ Resources

    www.usa.gov/Topics/Seniors.shtml
    The government’s Web site for Senior Resources includes information on health, retirement, education, jobs, volunteerism, travel and recreation for seniors.

Sleep

  • National Sleep Foundation

    1522 K Street, NW, Suite 500
    Washington, D.C. 20005
    202-347-3471
    www.sleepfoundation.org
    The NSF is dedicated to improving the quality of life for Americans who suffer from sleep problems and disorders. They provide information on sleep problems and makes referrals to health care professionals specializing in sleep disorders.

Stroke

  • American Stroke Association National

    7272 Greenville Avenue
    Dallas, TX 75231
    888-478-7653
    888-4-STROKE
    www.strokeassociation.org
    The American Stroke Association offers a wide array of programs, products and services, from patient education materials to scientific statements.

  • National Stroke Association

    9707 E. Easter Lane Building B
    Centennial, CO 80112
    800-787-6537
    800-STROKES
    www.stroke.org
    This association focuses entirely on stroke and helps people who want to learn more about stroke, have survived a stroke, know someone who has suffered a stroke, or take care of a stroke survivor.

Veterans

  • Blinded Veterans Association

    477 H Street, NW
    Washington, DC 20001-2694
    800 669-7079
    202-371-8880
    www.bva.org
    BVA helps veterans become oriented and readjusted to blindness and obtain vocational training.

  • Department of Veterans Affairs, U.S.

    810 Vermont Avenue, NW
    Washington, DC 20420
    800-827-1000 (VA Benefits)
    202-273-5770 (Customer Service)
    800-829-4833 (Voice – TDD)
    www.va.gov
    The VA provides a wide range of veterans’ benefits in such areas as health care, education, housing, disability pensions, and life insurance.

  • Disabled American Veterans

    807 Maine Avenue, SW
    Washington, DC 20024
    202-554-3501
    www.dav.org
    This is a nonprofit association for disabled veterans and their families. They provide counseling and help for veterans in completing paperwork of applying for benefits from the Veterans Administration.

  • Paralyzed Veterans of America

    801 18th Street, NW
    Washington, D.C. 20006
    800-424-8200
    202-872-1300
    www.pva.org
    The PVA works to ensure quality of health care, rehabilitation, and civil rights for veterans with spinal cord injuries or diseases, and all persons with a disability.

Vision

  • American Council of the Blind

    2200 Wilson Blvd., Suite 160
    Arlington, VA 22201
    800-424-8666
    202-467-5081
    www.acb.org
    This council provides toll-free information and referral on all aspects of blindness, as well as free publications in Braille, large print and cassette.

  • Center for the Partially Sighted

    12301 Wilshire Boulevard
    Suite 600
    Los Angeles, CA 90025
    800-481-EYES
    310-458-3501
    www.low-vision.org
    The CPS offers rehabilitative services to the partially sighted, including low vision evaluations and prescription of visual aids. Fees for services are on a sliding scale depending on income.

  • National Federation of the Blind

    200 E. Wells Street, at Jernigan Place
    Baltimore, MD 21230
    410-659-9314
    www.nfb.org
    The NFB contacts newly blind persons to help them with adjustment problems, provides information on available government programs, and assists blind persons who are the victims of discrimination or whose rights have been denied.