Recent Articles

Hantavirus explained: What to know after the cruise ship outbreak

Why testosterone levels drop and when to consider treatment

Don't count on daily aspirin to prevent colon cancer

Night owls' habits linked to worse heart health

After ablation, exercise may lower atrial fibrillation recurrence

What can cause an enlarged heart?

Women's unique risks for heart disease

Chronic kidney disease: A hidden threat to your heart

Navigating your online patient portal: Best practices

Treating hair loss in men: What works?

Resources to find a medical wingman

You can hire a number of different types of health care professionals to help you navigate the health care system.

For a little help, such as getting you to and from a doctor appointment or pharmacy, or doing all of that plus helping you shower and dress, you might need a home care aide (or "home companion"), a personal care attendant (PCA), or a licensed certified nursing assistant (CNA). The Family Caregiver Alliance offers guidance and many resources to help connect you to the right expert.

If you need a lot of help, such as someone to develop and manage your care plan, you might need the assistance of an Aging Life Care Professional (formerly called a geriatric care manager) or a patient or health care advocate.

Aging Life Care Association

Greater National Advocates

National Association of Healthcare Advocacy

Print This Page

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.