Background checks for caregivers are important, whether working for a facility or an individual, but can you afford to wait until you get the report? Read More »
In 1752, when Benjamin Franklin flew his kite in a storm, little did he know how people would rely on his discovery for centuries to come. When that energy is interrupted, complications arise and Kathleen Mears shares her experience with a computer and a power interruption. Read More »
A new program of self-management of chronic conditions is designed to provide seniors with the tools to take charge of their conditions to enjoy a healthy lifestyle. Read More »
Pets, especially pets trained to respond to the elderly, are welcome guests—and even permanent residents—at some nursing homes. However, research indicates that it might be better to leave pups at home. Read More »
Mainstreaming elderly prisoners into LTC facilities has its champions and its critics. How do residents feel about sharing their space with convicts? Kathleen Mears shares her views. Read More »
Residents enjoy when family and friends come to call. However, these visits might trigger old memories or a glimpse of their own futures in long-term care. Read More »
Even the average person can have trouble with cell phones. Long-Term Living blogger Kathleen Mears discusses some challenges she faces with her new equipment. Read More »
Preliminary research findings from the University of Arizona suggest that men and women older than 65 who learn to use Facebook could see a boost in cognitive function. Read More »
Pursuing personal interest helps residents fill their days with meaningful information and entertainment. LTL blogger Kathleen Mears uses a variety of technological devices to stay engaged. Read More »
Learning, memory improvement, problem solving, vision, balance and depression can all be improved if we understand neuroplasticity and how to have fun while "teaching an old dog new tricks.” Read More »
Shelley Silverman King, RN, explains how a Massachusetts facility uses specially trained caregivers and a room full of sensory experiences—music, lighting, hand massage, aromatherapy and other stimuli—to reach its most isolated and lonely population: its residents with advanced dementia. Read More »
A new program designed for young adults with intellectual disabilities can help seniors overcome their challenges in positive, supportive long-term care environments. Read More »
Counting sheep from loss of sleep? Poor sleep can have a direct effect on more than just physical energy in elders, according to a new neurology study. Read More »
Whether at work computer or at home, lost data can be a game-changer. Kathleen Mears shares the lesson she learned through a recent experience with file backup. Read More »
Whether residents are in short-stay rehab or LTC units, providing the right physical environment backed by staff commitment, can improve mobility and, ultimately, reduce falls. Here’s how one LTC community did just that. Read More »
At times, health conditions, such as quadriplegia, can have some unusual manifestations on other parts of the body. Are they the result of an existing condition or a symptom of another health issue? Don't ignore spots, rashes, discoloration and other changes as Kathy Mears can verify. Read More »
When it comes to longevity, a healthy attitude about aging matters. Colorado researchers are working on a way to measure self-perceived age. Read More »
While the music of the legends of ’60s and ’70s rock is still popular, relevant and enduring, the performers themselves have adapted to aging—or not. Read More »
The key to having a happy holiday season is to think of others and give of yourself. Small gestures can have a great an effect on residents, friends and families. Read More »
Not everyone wants to be the “life of the party” and many people are perfectly fine standing in the background. Is that wrong? Or is introversion unacceptable in the LTC setting? Read More »
The “Greatest Generation” is fading like a photograph left in the sun. Make every day a day of remembrance and gratitude for their contributions to our families and our country. Read More »
