The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (“NAELA”) has again this year declared the month of May to be National Elder Law Month. Some states, like Utah, have also declared the Month of May as Elder law Month.

In celebration of National Elder Law Month, I have updated current Internet resource information.

With the Internet becoming so accessible, even for seniors, I will refer to many Internet sites that may be helpful to the reader. One of the most extensive sources of elder law information is contained on NAELA’s web site at www.naela.com. This notational format is customarily used to identify sites or “links”.

In addition to general information and a directory of Elder Law Attorneys, NAELA’s site contains more than 50 “hot links” to other Internet sites. The term “hot links” simply means that you only have to click your mouse on the link or address and you will be taken immediately to that particular site.

The Center for Social Gerontology maintains a web site that provides information on federal legislation, both enacted and pending: www.tcsg.org. For instance, you can go to that site and obtain a copy of the The National Survey of Legal Assistance for the Elderly: click on “Law & Aging” at the bottom of the home screen.

If you do not have access to the Internet, you might ask a child, grandchild, relative, or a friend to help you. Also, many of the local senior centers provide Internet access to seniors. However, if you have no access to the Internet, you can write or call The Center for Social Gerontology at 2307 Shelby Avenue, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48103; (734) 665-1126.

At the State level, the Aging Services Program provides services as set forth in the Older Americans Act. It is funded by federal, state, and local governments: www.hsdaas.state.ut.us/srvage.htm. At this site on the right hand side, you can click on and obtain an eighteen page booklet entitled “Utah Legal Services for Older Adults.” There are also links to many other Internet sites that may be helpful.

There are 12 local area agencies or offices throughout the State of Utah. For local information, check the telephone directory for Aging Services. Or, you can find them all listed on the State’s web site identified above.

At the national level, there is the National Senior Citizens Law Center, 1101 14th Street, NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 2005. Or, you can access them on the Internet at www.nsclc.org. The NSCLC is a not for profit organization that advocates nationwide to promote independence and well-being of low-income elderly individuals.

For low-income seniors (usually below 125% of the federal poverty level), legal services may be available through different agencies. Qualifications and services may be obtained at the “and justice for all” web site located at: www.uls.state.ut.us/services.html. At that site, you will find links to other sites: Utah Legal Services, Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake, and the Disability Law Center. There are additional links to other providers as well.