Finding Information for Seniors

Many may ask, “Is the process of getting information any better in 2011 than it was 15 to 25 years ago?”

Some would answer a resounding no, others would say maybe and still others would say yes.

I think the jury is still out, and, honestly, information gathering and giving could always be better.

For instance: what happens when seniors are clueless to the options available to them? I realize this seems an unlikely scenario in 2011 because of the Internet, yet marketing senior services to the senior population directly is not always easy. In fact, it can be downright difficult.

Let’s take web-based information. Unfortunately, providers create excess content in order to gain top rankings online and hence there can be information overload, a problem that can cause a shutdown for even the most ardent reader! Attempting to filter through all that excess information often leads to more confusion than help.

That's why it's so important to look for senior care and health care sites that are mindful of the content they put online. Look for articles or posts that are useful, informative and help to solve your problem.

It’s a known fact that access to most senior information is typically sought after the time of crisis and not before. As a result, seniors and their families could find themselves relying upon individuals and/or who they believe have the knowledge, i.e. social workers, doctors and other skilled care providers. Many times, though, those persons can lack a thorough understanding of senior services. This is not the fault of any one entity, but just the complicated maze and volume of products, services and companies in this industry.

I believe there continues to be a need for better communication and dissemination of cohesive, accurate information in this country’s health care system. Although the Internet is our newest friend, compound being in a hurry with being in crisis and you have the recipe for disaster.

As the senior care industry has grown, it seems the workings of senior programs and care is more confusing than ever. The changes being made to health care in this country are continuous, arduous, enormous and at the same time lacking. One might say the country has lost sight of their original vision.

However unfortunate this may be, it is what it is, so below I have listed some good sites I find informative.

• Early Bird Alert — They have a new product (available for home placement in 2012) called EasyConnect, a platform that connects with landline telephones, enabling the device to become a push-button health care services hotline. It will be accessible by smartphone, web browser or Internet-connected television, and provided free of charge through participating organizations.
• Be sure to contact your local council on aging.
• Take the time to review Health Care Solutions For You.
• Check out the Massachusetts Guardianship Association, Elder Affairs, the Elder Insider and local cable shows. 
• Be on the lookout for other local and statewide senior services, information, presenters and seminars that offer valuable connections.

Boomer-aging has meant the need is upon us to know more. Sooner is better than later. It’s time for innovative and creative solutions for getting the word out to those in need of it!

Sara-Lynn Reynolds has a Degree in Health Education from UMASS, Amherst and is currently the Community and Education Liaison for Home Instead Senior Care Northern Bristol County, office located in Attleboro, MA. Her columns will offer advice, articles, stories and pertinent information regarding health, wellness and fitness