As a caregiver, you may be called upon to make decisions in situations that are new to you. One of these situations might concern medical issues. Sometimes it is difficult to understand medical information, whether in a conversation with a physician or reading a medication label. Even knowing how to find out what options are available can be difficult.

Understanding Medical Information

The information below may help you with some of these issues.

Health Care Providers

• Medical Professionals Explained
• Medical Specialties
• Talking With Your Health Care Providers

Specific Diseases

• Health Information on the Internet
• Warning Signs of a Stroke
• Caring for Someone with Alzheimer's Disease

Medications

• Working With Your Health Provider to Ensure Proper Medication Management
• Medication Management Is a Personal Responsibility

End of Life Care

• Advance Directives for Health Care
• Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care
• Living Will
• Do Not Resuscitate

Taking Care of You

• Taking Care of You
• Using Humor for Health
• Immunizations for Caregivers and Older Adults
• Assistive Technology and Adaptive Equipment

For Health Care Providers

If you are a health care provider working with older adults and caregivers, and want to improve your communication skills, you may find this resource on health literacy from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, helpful: http://www.health.gov/communication/literacy/olderadults/default.htm