There are hundreds of web-based resources for those who are caring for family members or friends. Here are some of the best:

Better Health While Aging. A blog and podcast by geriatrician Dr. Leslie Kernisan. Great practical medical information about older adults.

Daughterhood.org  Resources for the adult children of aging parents (good for sons too).

The National Family Caregivers Association is now the Caregiver Action Network. Learn more

AARP: AARP is an advocacy and marketing juggernaut, but its website includes lots of practical information about finances, housing, health care, and aging.

Alzheimer’s Association: Not just for Alzheimer’s. This site has information about all dementias, as well as good tips for caregivers. Most other diseases also have associations with their own websites.

Area Agencies on Aging: These government-funded organizations can guide you to helpful services in your community.  To find one closest to you, go to http://www.eldercare.gov/or call 1-800-677-1116.

Caring From a Distance: Guidance for those who face the special challenges of long-distance caregiving.

Family Caregiver Alliance: Practical advice about all facets of caregiving.

Home Health Compare:  A government website where you can research home health agencies.

Medicare Rights Center: Everything you need to know about Medicare from an independent advocacy group.

National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys: A helpful guide to lawyers who specialize in elder care and disability issues.

National Association of Insurance Commissioners: Click on the long-term care link for consumer information on long-term care insurance.

National Family Caregivers Association: Resources and advocacy for family caregivers, as well as links to dozens of other helpful sites.

National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers: If you need more hands-on assistance, this site will help you find a care manager.

Nursing Home Compare: This government website lets you compare the quality of nursing homes. But these measures should be only the start of your search.