Seeking Information
“Knowledge is of two kinds. We know a subject ourselves, or we know where we can find information on it.”
– Samuel Johnson
Introduction
We come across new information every day, in lots of different places. And there is a lot out there! The right information can help you:
- Reach your goal
- Solve difficult problems
- Avoid detours and prepare for change
- Feel confident about making decisions
- Live more independently
Health and wellness are always changing. Changes in health and wellness or changes in your community can mean it is time for new information. Some challenges to updating information may be:
- how to know when and where to actively seek new information
- how to know what information is right for you
- and what to do with the updated information
With the right supports, you can find, evaluate, and use information that is right for you.
When & What
- Good information about health and wellness can help you make the best decisions and can help you be more independent
- Noticing a change, or a new problem, can mean that it may be time for new information
- New information can also help whenever you are thinking about making a change
Where & How
- No one person can know all the information out there
- The most important thing about the information seeking process is knowing where to go
- There are lots of different places to find information, and the amount of information can be overwhelming
- There may also be barriers to finding information, such as time, technology, uncertainty, cost, or lack of accessibility
- Getting support in choosing sources can help you sort through a lot and resolve barriers
Evaluation
You have come a long way in the information-seeking process!
In order to evaluate and use the information you have gathered, you need to find out if it is:
- Understandable
- Relevant
- Consistent
Taking Action
- Use your information!
- The best information in the world will not improve your life until you use it
- You may not need to use new information right away
- Sharing information with others and thinking about how it could help in different situations and may help you prepare for the future
Resources
Session Worksheets
Evaluating My Sources
My Sources
Online Resources
Website: 2-1-1 A free and confidential information and referral service
Website: National Library of Medicine
Website: NeedyMeds A national non-profit information resource dedicated to helping people locate healthcare costs assistance programs
Website: Know the Science Tools to help you “know the science of health” so you can make well-informed decisions
Article: How to Find Trustworthy Health Information from the Internet
Article: Medical Library Association: Find Good Health Information
Article: Medical Library Association: Top Health Websites
Video: Health Information on the Web
Video: How to find good quality health information on the Internet
