Activities

When the big screen dies

Watching television programs on a big-screen TV gives residents an opportunity to share and socialize. But what happens when the set goes on the blink? Read More »

A new offering in LTC amenities: Electric charging stations

They never drove Model Ts, but today’s seniors did grow up on Mustangs, Corvettes and Camaros. Because of the boomers’ willingness to embrace new motoring experiences, hybrid automobiles have found a niche in the senior sector. Read More »

Personal expense allowance

Living on a budget is hard for anyone. It takes discipline. Imagine if you had less than $100 a month to meet your needs, let alone your wants. Read More »

Music is theme for National Assisted Living Week

“The Magic of Music,” notably its positive effects on those with dementia, will be highlighted during National Assisted Living Week, which will be celebrated Sept. 7 to 13. Read More »

The case of the missing jewelry

Facility life can lead to accidental loss or damage to a resident’s personal belongings as Long-Term Living’s resident blogger Kathleen Mears recently discovered. Read More »

Long-term, post-acute care companies support Gay Games

Businesses with ties to older adults are supporting the international Gay Games being held this week. Read More »

They’re older and loving it

Older adults in the news, surveys and research show that aging can be something to look forward to. Read More »

Fall risk: Older adults safer when walking for pleasure rather than necessity

Older adults are at a greater danger of falling when walking for utilitarian purposes such as shopping and appointments than when walking for recreation, according to a new study. Read More »

105-year-old resident throws first pitch at baseball game

A retirement community's staff members help a resident become the oldest person to throw out a ceremonial first pitch for a professional baseball team. Read More »

Consider art therapy for residents with Parkinson’s disease

People with Parkinson's are more creative than those who don't have the disease, so art-related activities can enable them to fully express themselves and be more socially engaged, according to an author of a new study. Read More »

Exercise: An important 25 minutes in a senior’s day

Engaging in a daily fitness regimen of moderate to vigorous exercise can help seniors maintain a better standard of health, according to a UK study. Read More »

Disappearing washcloths

Everyone knows that washing machines and dryers live on a diet of socks. Long-Term Living resident blogger Kathleen Mears notes that washcloths seem to be the meal of choice of facility laundry equipment. Read More »

Another battle won in the war on tobacco

Smoke-free nursing homes are becoming the norm. Long-Term Living blogger Kathleen Mears shares her opinions on the benefits of a total ban on tobacco products. Read More »

Doctors helpful when it’s time for seniors to stop driving

Physicians can be valuable allies when adult children or others think it’s time for seniors to stop driving, according to a new survey of older adults. Read More »

Keep residents active to delay dementia: study

Residents who read books, participate in social events and use a computer at least three times every week are likely to have better cognitive performance and even may delay the onset of cognitive impairment by as many as nine years, according to new research. Read More »

My solution to a noisy room

People have different levels of auditory comfort. When too many decibels work for one resident, but assault a roommate, what can be done to ensure both parties’ satisfaction? Read More »

5 tips to keep seniors safe this summer

The official start of summer is just about a week away. Make sure you’re ready to assist and advise your residents on simple solutions to “beat the heat.” Read More »

Remembering D-Day

Today is the day to remember—and honor—those brave men and women of the armed forces who landed on the shores of Normandy, signaling the beginning of the end of World War II. Read More »

The walk-and-roll outing

An outdoor outing might seem like a simple pleasure, but it can present challenges to long-term care residents. Overcoming the difficulties mobility issues can present are worth it to give residents a break from the routines of facility life. Read More »

Wheelchair workouts improve mobility and more

Sitting in a wheelchair does not mean that a person is incapable of physical activity or the benefits that regular exercise can bring.  Read More »

Seniors improving in key health measures: report

A new report reveals the health status of seniors as well as the states where the healthiest and least healthy older adults live. Read More »

Beyond Bingo: Activity director role evolves

The days of simply keeping residents occupied are over, and the focus has turned squarely on making sure that meaningful, person-centered activities contribute to a life worth living—and celebrating. As always, long-term care communities and their activity directors are rolling up their sleeves and taking the challenge to heart. Read More »

EFACon opening keynote: What’s the recipe for the longest, happiest life?

Forget the fictitious fountain of youth. Environments for Aging Conference opening keynote speaker Nick Buettner explores what it really takes to live the longest, healthiest life possible. Read More »

Turn it down!

Some people hear every sound, while the sound others hear are muted or distorted by competing noise. Unwanted noise and volume can create an audiologic assault and distraction. Read More »

Memories of Brutus

Studies have shown that facility pets are proven “caregivers” who provide love and comfort to the residents and staff they live with. Read More »

X-rated entertainment

If residents request an activity that challenges the boundaries of good taste, should the facility weigh in on its appropriateness for the majority? Read More »

Senior gambling: Amusement or addiction?

Are residents being treated like children by giving them “permission” to pursue their interests or are facilities and families protecting them from themselves?  Read More »

Fear or forgetfulness?

As we age, some absentmindedness is acceptable. But in long-term care, can negativity and impatience cause enough stress to trigger brain “blips”? Read More »

Helping residents get ‘Happy’ and healthy

An assisted living program director finds a fun activity for residents that spreads a positive message about seniors and the facility, helps residents get a little exercise—and has another, unanticipated effect. Read More »

Carry-in menu mix-ups

When a number of residents order takeout food, mistakes are bound to happen. Read More »