Alzheimer’s Disease
If You Have Alzheimer’s Disease – What You Should Know, What You Should Do
http://www.alz.org/national/documents/brochure_ifyouhave_earlystage.pdf
This easy-to-read brochure from the Alzheimer’s Association lends basic understanding and support.
Coping with and Managing Alzheimer’s Disease
http://www.alz.org/living_with_alzheimers_if_you_have_alzheimers.asp
http://www.alz.org/espanol/overview-espanol.asp
http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_languages.asp
If you have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, this site from the Alzheimer’s Association can provide you with help, support, and inspiration to make your years ahead the best they can be. Here you will find tips on keeping your independence, making job decisions, sharing your diagnosis with family and friends, and more. Translations in Chinese and other languages are also available at the site.
Inside the Brain: Unraveling the Mystery of Alzheimer’s Disease
http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/ADVideo/
Acquaint yourself with the anatomy and physiology of the disease. This visually stunning video from the National Institute on Aging shows the intricate mechanisms involved in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
Arthritis
Arthritis Foundation: Take Control. We Can Help.
The Arthritis Foundation’s web site offers information on how to live well with arthritis, the latest research, and how to get involved in advocacy and local fundraising events. Click on the Arthritis Today tab to read the Arthritis Foundation’s latest online newsletter which includes an Expert Q & A plus tips on staying fit, eating right, and making everyday activities more manageable.
Top Ten Tips for Coping with Arthritis – from the American Pain Foundation
http://www.painfoundation.org/learn/living/top-ten-tips/arthritis.html
Follow these ten manageable steps to take control of your arthritis and start living well!
Asthma
Asthma: Lifestyle Management
http://www.nationaljewish.org/healthinfo/conditions/asthma/lifestyle-management/index.aspx
How does asthma affect your day-to-day activities? Learn some great tools to help you take control and manage asthma every day. This site from National Jewish Health is helpful for anyone with asthma, including such topics as nutrition management, exercise, and an action plan for managing the disease.
For Teens: How Can I Deal With My Asthma?
http://kidshealth.org/teen/diseases_conditions/allergies_immune/asthma.html
http://kidshealth.org/teen/en_espanol/enfermedades/asthma_esp.html
Here are some tips for teens with asthma. In this section of KidsHealth.org, teens with asthma can learn some simple steps to help with common issues and problems. (Note: there is also information for younger kids in the Kids section of the site).
Cancer
American Cancer Society
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/home/index.asp
http://www.cancer.org/Espanol/index
http://www.cancer.org/AsianLanguageMaterials/index
This all in one site can be your starting point for overall information on types of cancer and treatment, helpful information for patients and families, and management of your cancer experience. You will also find support programs and services. There are additional resources for lowering your cancer risk. The third link listed here is for Asian language materials.
National Cancer Institute
http://www.cancer.gov/
http://www.cancer.gov/espanol
This comprehensive site from one of the National Institutes of Health offers extensive explanation and treatment information about all types of cancer. NCI also wants to increase awareness and use of palliative care for people with cancer. Palliative care offers support and comfort to patients and their loved ones from diagnosis through recovery or during recurrence, advanced disease, and at the end of life.
NCI’s Dictionary of Cancer Terms
http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary/
http://www.cancer.gov/diccionario/
This resource defines more than 6,000 terms related to cancer and medicine.
Cancer.Net
http://www.cancer.net/portal/site/patient
http://www.cancer.net/patient/Cancer.Net+En+Espa%C3%B1ol
This is the consumer information site from the American Society of Clinical Oncology. The site includes information on 120 types of cancer, strategies for coping and healthy living after diagnosis. Cancer.Net En Español provides information for Spanish speakers as well.
COPD
Living with COPD: for Diagnosed Individuals
http://www.copdfoundation.org/COPDersCaregivers/LivingwithCOPD/tabid/139/language/en-US/Default.aspx
Take steps to manage your COPD symptoms and slow the progress of the disease. In this section of the COPD Foundation’s web site, you will find information on dealing with some of the challenges that you may face. Included are such issues as maintaining an active lifestyle, increasing air quality in your home, and triggers that can exacerbate your COPD.
Nutrition and COPD
http://www.lungusa.org/lung-disease/copd/living-with-copd/nutrition.html
Did you know that the food you eat may affect your breathing? If you have COPD, this article from the American Lung Association can provide the information you need about how your diet affects your health. Included are tips on diet, developing a food plan, and medical nutrition products.
NIHSeniorHealth’s COPD Videos
http://nihseniorhealth.gov/videolist.html#copd
NIHSeniorHealth provides four informative videos, ranging from 1-3 minutes, on living and coping with COPD. Risk factors for developing this disease are also discussed.
Diabetes
National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC)
http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/
http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/spanish/index_sp.aspx
From the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, this site is a portal for diabetes information and publications from authoritative sources. Collections of interest include the following: Easy-to-Read, Spanish language, an A to Z list of diabetes topics, and the Awareness and Prevention Series.
Living with Diabetes: Planning for a Healthy Life
http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/seniors/planning-for-a-healthy-life/
http://www.diabetes.org/assets/pdfs/planning-for-healthy-life.pdf
Learn how to cope with health issues related to your diabetes. Prevent complications and provide support for the whole family with this site from the American Diabetes Association. Click on the links to find helpful information about health check-ups and vaccines, tips for eating healthy and exercising, keeping your home safe, and even maintaining healthy finances. For resources in Spanish, click on the Información en Español link at the top of the page. The entire Planner is available as a pdf file.
Heart Disease
American Heart Association
The AHA provides information and health check tools for consumers, helping people live healthier lives and to reduce the risk of heart disease. The web site also has information in Spanish, Chinese and Vietnamese.
For Women: Living Well with Heart Disease
http://www.womenheart.org/supportForWomen/livingHD/livingwell.cfm
The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease provides help for women recently diagnosed with heart disease. Included are strategies for maintaining normal daily activities and lifelong management tips.
The Mayo Clinic’s Lifestyle and Home Remedies for Heart Disease
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/heart-disease/DS01120/DSECTION=lifestyle-and-home-remedies
Many forms of heart disease can be prevented or improved with healthy lifestyle choices and diet and exercise. Check out the easy-to-access links at the bottom of the page for articles on diets, recipes, and more for a healthy heart.
Go Red for Women
http://www.goredforwomen.org/heart_healthy_at_any_age.aspx
http://goredcorazon.org/enes/heart-healthy-family.html
Part of the Go Red campaign from the American Heart Association, this site provides helpful tips for buying healthy foods at the market, heart healthy cooking tips and eating in restaurants. There are sites for English and Spanish speakers.
Heart Failure – Educational Modules
http://www.hfsa.org/heart_failure_education_modules.asp
The Heart Failure Society of America created a wonderful patient education series consisting of eleven modules for the patient with heart failure. While these were published several years ago, most of the information is not time-sensitive. (The exception is Module III, Heart Failure Medicines, 2006. Supplemental searches for current information is recommended for this aspect of the topic.) The modules can be downloaded as PDFfiles, or individuals can order a copy of the entire set for free.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Your Guide to Lowering High Blood Pressure: Prevention – from the National Institutes of Health
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/hbp/prevent/prevent.htm
You can take steps to prevent and control high blood pressure by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Learn about these healthy lifestyle habits in this section of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s guide.
Exercise: A Drug-free Approach to Lowering High Blood Pressure – from the Mayo Clinic
http://www.mayoclinic.com/print/high-blood-pressure/HI00024/METHOD=print
Having high blood pressure and not getting enough exercise are closely related. Discover how small changes in your daily routine can make a big difference in managing your high blood pressure.
HIV/AIDS
AIDS Info
http://aidsinfo.nih.gov/
http://aidsinfo.nih.gov/infoSIDA/
This site provides a wealth of information, including current treatments, prevention, and other consumer information for HIV infection and AIDS-related illnesses.
Mental Health
MENTAL HEALTH HOTLINE NUMBERS
National Toll-Free Help Lines
The numbers listed on the site can be dialed toll-free in the United States. The organizations provide mental health information, referrals and counseling in some cases.
Lineas Nacionales de Ayuda
http://www.samhsa.gov/espanol/
This page is a directory of national helplines that provide information, referrals and support in Spanish. All of the listings have toll-free numbers.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/GetHelp
http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Culture/es/Default.aspx
The Lifeline [1-800-273-TALK (8255)] is a 24-hour, toll-free, confidential suicide prevention hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress or someone concerned about another person. The web site is limited, but includes suicide warning signs and information for concerned family and friends.
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/index.shtml
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/espanol/spanish-listing.shtml
NIMH’s mission is to help Americans understand and get treatment for mental illness. The web site provides information on specific conditions, treatments, clinical trials, local resources, and for special populations such as kids, teens, and seniors. A limited number of publications are in Spanish.
NAMI (National Alliance Mental Illness)
http://www.nami.org
http://www.nami.org/template.cfm?section=NAMI_en_espa%F1ol
America’s largest grassroots organization is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness. NAMI’s efforts are focused on educating America about mental illness, offering resources to those in need, and insisting that mental illness become a high national priority.
Mental Health America (MHA)
http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net
http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/go/en-espanol
MHA is the nation’s largest and oldest community-based network dedicated to helping all Americans live mentally healthier lives. With more than 300 affiliates across the country, MHA advocates for changes in policy, educates the public, and delivers urgently needed programs and services.
SAMHSA’s National Mental Health Information Center
http://www.samhsa.gov/
http://www.samhsa.gov/espanol/
This section of the SAMHSA web site offers information on mental health issues for children, teens and adults. Included is a list of relevant publications, resources for getting help, and current initiatives like the Campaign for Mental Health Recovery: What a Difference a Friend Makes.
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA)
DBSA provides up-to-date, scientifically based tools and information written for the general public about Bipolar Disorder and related conditions. Links within the site address topics for those who are in crisis, were recently diagnosed, want to help a loved one, and others. There is also a page that connects users to peer-led chapters and support groups across the country. The list of publications includes information on coping, finding support and help for families and friends.
Child & Adolescent Bipolar Foundation (CABF)
This easy-to-navigate site provides a wealth of information for parents, educators, and to young people suffering from mood disorders. Sections to note include the “Need Help” area which provides immediate help for families. The Connect section includes discussion forums and support groups, while the Teens and 20s section includes videos, podcasts and quizzes specifically for young people.
Obesity
Overweight & Obesity: Resources & Publications
http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/resources.html
The CDC has compiled a wide-ranging list of links to organizations concerned with weight management in children and adults, and links to specific publications which can be printed in PDF format or ordered as full-color brochures.
Body Mass Index (BMI) Calculator from the CDC
http://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/index.html
A simple but important tool, the CDC provides BMI (body mass index) calculators for adults, teens, and children. Information is provided on interpreting BMI and the health consequences of overweight and obesity. The differences between adult and child BMI are emphasized, and special information for parents is included.
Osteoporosis
Exercise and Bone Health – from NIAMS, the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Bone/Bone_Health/Exercise/default.asp
http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Bone/espanol/Salud_hueso/bone_exercise_espanol.asp
This document discusses the importance of exercise in treating and preventing osteoporosis. Links to additional sites are included, and many are in Spanish.
Stroke
Know Stroke Video: Know the Signs, Act in Time
http://stroke.nih.gov/materials/knowstrokevideo.htm
http://stroke.nih.gov/materials/knowstrokevideoSpanish.htm
This video from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, describes the importance of knowing the signs of stroke, the risk factors for stroke, and what to expect after a stroke. Prevention and treatment of stroke is stressed.
Let’s Talk About Risk Factors for Stroke
http://www.heart.org/idc/groups/stroke-public/@wcm/@hcm/documents/downloadable/ucm_309713.pdf
This handy pamphlet from the American Stroke Association summarizes the major risk factors that you can change or treat to lower your chances of stroke.
HOPE: The Stroke Recovery Guide
http://www.stroke.org/site/PageServer?pagename=HOPE
From the National Stroke Association, this 74-page document is divided into four sections. The guide helps victims of stroke return to a normal life, through knowledge, good nutrition, and exercise.
Life After Stroke: Resources and Information from the National Stroke Association
http://www.stroke.org/site/PageServer?pagename=las
http://www.stroke.org/site/PageServer?pagename=espanol_que_es
Become aware of common effects of stroke and how to improve the emotional and physical well-being of both the stroke survivor and caregiver. Included are links to rehabilitation advice, post-stroke fact sheets, and information on preventing another stroke. The Spanish language link is to one of the National Stroke Association’s main pages.
The American Stroke Association’s Recovery and Support Section
Stroke rehabilitation can help you return to independent living after a stroke. Click on the easy to access links for more information on what to expect in rehabilitation, simplifying daily tasks, and finding support groups, as well as personal stories from stroke survivors.
Substance Abuse, Addiction and Dependence
Smoking – How to Quit
Created by the Tobacco Control Research Branch of the National Cancer Institute, this user-friendly site gives people the tools and motivation they need to help them through the difficult process of quitting smoking.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
http://www.samhsa.gov/
http://www.samhsa.gov/espanol/
http://www.samhsa.gov/treatment/index.aspx
SAMHSA provides a wealth of information on issues pertaining to substance abuse. Those who are seeking help with a substance abuse problem can look to the “Find Treatment” page for help finding treatment services, online and printable resources, as well as a 24-hour toll-free Treatment Referral Helpline. Health consumers may also be interested in SAMHSA’s timely campaigns, which have included “We Can Help US” (teen suicide prevention) and “Talk Early, Talk Often, Get Others Involved” (underage drinking prevention, which is also available in Spanish).
Drugs of Abuse Information from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
http://www.drugabuse.gov/drugpages/
http://www.drugabuse.gov/nidaespanol.html
This web site provides information about commonly abused drugs and their effects, addiction science, treatment approaches, and related topics. It is a service of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), which is charged with bringing the power of science to bear on drug abuse and addiction.
Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator
http://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/
The Locator is a searchable directory of more than 11,000 drug and alcohol treatment programs in the U.S. serving adolescents and/or adults. Residential treatment centers, outpatient treatment programs, and hospital inpatient programs are included. From the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
The Addiction Project
The Addiction Project aims to help the public understand the pain, struggles, and hopes experienced by addicts and their family members. The project’s documentary series is comprised of a 90-minute documentary, a 13-part series of supplementary films, and four related independent documentaries. All films are available streaming for free on the interactive web site. The web site also includes extensive information on addiction, adolescent addiction, treatment, stigma & discrimination, and aftercare. Libraries may be interested in purchasing the accompanying book and the 4-DVD set, which covers all aspects of drug and alcohol addiction, ranging from the definition of addiction and an understanding of relapses to the latest in medical treatments and unique concerns for various social groups—such as the adolescent addict—of the population of 22 million Americans suffering from addiction.
The Addiction Recovery Guide
http://www.addictionrecoveryguide.org/
This site helps individuals struggling with drug addiction and alcoholism find help that best suits their needs. Resources on a wide range of recovery topics is provided, including treatment options, information on clinical trials of medications used during treatment, holistic approaches to treatment, and resources to turn to after treatment is completed. There are also message boards and online support resources where visitors can help others in recovery and share their stories.
