Health Information for Older People

Find reliable sources of information on health topics important to you, whether you’re an older consumer or a family member, caregiver, or friend. You can:

  • learn how to spot misleading and deceptive claims;
  • find out who you can contact if you think a health product or service isn’t living up to its promises; and
  • learn how to file a complaint.

Remember: Among the best sources of health information is someone you can meet face-to-face. Talk about all of your health-related decisions with your doctors and other trusted health care providers.

Care and Services

Alternative and Complementary Treatments: Health Information for Older People

Considering an unconventional treatment for cancer or another disease? Talk to a licensed health professional first. Some unapproved "cures" can actually harm you.

Assisted Living and Nursing Homes: Health Information for Older People

Sources of information to help you choose the right assisted living or nursing home facility.

Hiring Caregivers: Health Information for Older People

Before you hire a home health worker, figure out what services you need and what you can afford.

Hormone Therapies: Health Information for Older People

Considering hormone therapies? It matters when and how long you take them. It's a decision to make with your doctor.

Lasik and Other Vision-Correcting Surgeries: Health Information for Older People

Most people who have had Lasik surgery are satisfied with the results, but there are some risks.

Health Care Documents: Health Information for Older People

What's an "advance directive," and who needs one?

Pills and Products

Buying Prescription Drugs Online: Health Information for Older People

How can you tell if you're dealing with a reputable pharmacy online?

Dietary Supplements: Health Information for Older People

Just because a supplement is "natural" doesn't mean it's safe.

Generic Drugs and Switching Prescriptions: Health Information for Older People

Generic drugs are as safe and effective as brand names, and less expensive.

At-Home Genetic Tests: Health Information for Older People

Genetic tests look in your DNA to assess the risk for certain diseases, but that's only one factor.

Vision Prescription Portability: Health Information for Older People

You have the right to get a copy of your eyeglass or contact lens prescription and shop around for the best deal.

Hearing Aids: Health Information for Older People

Hearing Aids: Health Information for Older People

Personal Emergency Response Systems: Health Information for Older People

Is a personal emergency response system right for you?

Weight Loss Promises: Health Information for Older People

Scams often promise that you can lose weight fast without exercise or dieting.

Scams and Frauds

Medical ID Theft: Health Information for Older People

Medical identity thieves may use your identity to get treatment, or to rip of insurers in your name.

Medicare Fraud

Follow up on unexpected charges on your Medicare statement, and protect your Medicare number.

Medicare Part D Plans: Health Information for Older People

It's important to learn the rules for prescription drug plans under Medicare Part D.

Miracle Cures: Health Information for Older People

Products that claim to cure many diseases often are useless.

Prescription Assistance Programs: Health Information for Older People

Options for getting low-cost prescription drugs, and avoiding a scam.