Resident Care

ALFA launches Senior Living 2025 initiative

The Assisted Living Federation of America has launched a new initiative, Senior Living 2025: A Roadmap, to establish a united voice around four major issues facing the industry. Read More »

End-of-life care and resident choice

It’s not difficult to meld resident choices into wellness initiatives. But how does our long-term care system handle resident choice when it comes to chronic-level and end-of life care? Not so well, national experts say. Read More »

NIH: Tech strategy is key for Alzheimer’s research

The National Institutes of Health looks to technology and smarter data-gathering to transform dementia research. Read More »

FDA rule requests safety, effectiveness data on OTC topical antiseptics

Gels, liquids or wipes—hand hygiene is encouraged everywhere. Healthcare professionals know how vital hand sanitation is in preventing the spread of infection. Read More »

Online program helps dementia caregivers discuss death

A new multimedia online program teaches dementia caregivers about end-of-life decisions and how to provide comfort for those nearing death. Read More »

Relocating a treasure

How many of us put heirlooms away for safekeeping? If they can’t be passed down, Kathy Mears has the right philosophy on realizing their value. Read More »

Report finds NY nursing home inspectors underreport bedsores

Nearly one in 10 New York nursing home residents have bedsores. An advocacy group has found investigators lax in issuing citations. Read More »

One-on-one with…Paul Nussbaum, PhD

Brookdale Senior Living recently named Paul Nussbaum, PhD, its national director for brain health. Long-Term Living spoke with the board-certified psychologist to find out more about what he’s doing for the company, which has nearly 1,150 senior living communities in 46 states and calls itself the country’s largest provider of Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Read More »

Research: Temperature-sensing sock for people with diabetes

For people with diabetes a new fabric functions as a mood ring to provide a warning system for users. Still in development, this innovation may soon save the feet of diabetics. Read More »

Moments with Marie

Staff personalities and attitudes can make or break a resident’s day. Sincere friendliness can help a resident have a better day. Read More »

National plan attacks antibiotic-resistant infections

Healthcare providers and federal health agencies need to coordinate their strategic efforts to curb the spread of drug-resistant germs, notes a White House action plan. Read More »

Report examines state survey agency performance

A new report from the Long Term Care Community Coalition compares enforcement of nursing home standards in several categories across all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Read More »

Staff key to spotting, addressing resident depression

Caregivers play a vital role in identifying depression and ensuring that residents’ mental healthcare needs are attended to. Experts share signs to watch for and steps to take to help those in your care. Read More »

Study links diabetes mellitus, depression to dementia risk

Chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and depression can have an effect on the development of dementia according to recent research. Read More »

Identify and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning

Although cases of carbon monoxide poisoning are more common during the winter, vigilance is needed year round when fuel-burning appliances are in use. Read More »

Fracture recovery research receives funding

Research to improve older adults’ recovery from low-impact fractures and hip fractures has received funding from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute Board of Governors. Read More »

Strength through collaboration

A skilled nursing facility and a local hospital in Pennsylvania team up to bridge the patient's transition from acute to a post-acute setting while delivering effective wound care. Read More »

Study: Do ‘soft’ floors reduce falls?

Trips, stumbles and falls can result in serious injury, especially for an older adult who might have balance issues or improper footwear or who might be using a cane or walker incorrectly. Read More »

Craving french fries

Since mealtimes are so important to residents, a successful dining program should consider preferences and be sure to have enough of the most popular food items on hand. Read More »

Cognitive health subject of new IOM report

Healthcare professionals must be prepared to provide guidance to older adults and their families as the population ages, according to a new report from the Institute of Medicine. Read More »

The role of therapy in dementia care

Hear the words “dementia care” and you’re likely to think of nurses and nurses’ aides. Physical, occupational and speech-language therapists can play a role in caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, however, Carmen Vitton says. Read More »

2015 Leaders of Tomorrow: Dayne DuVall, LMT, CAEd, CRTS

Those who meet Dayne DuVall are immediately struck by his zeal for excellence in Alzheimer’s and dementia care. If you haven’t met him yet, chances are you will. Read More »

2015 Leaders of Tomorrow: Deborah Platt, RN, BSN, DON-CLTC

Some career paths can be circuitous as this clinical manager discovered. Through leadership, compassion and continuing involvement in the long-term care industry, this honoree and her staff continue to give their residents rich and fulfilling lives. Read More »

AMDA honors three

AMDA–The Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine and the AMDA Foundation honored three medical directors at AMDA’s recent annual meeting. Read More »

2015 Leaders of Tomorrow: Michael C. LaFerney, RN, PMHCNS-BC

This clinical nurse specialist provides quality care to the residents he serves, helps colleagues around the country and around the world with his research and other writings, and is priming another generation for long-term care as an adjunct professor at a nearby college. Read More »

Stroke recovery centers get new walking therapy

Two companies are partnering to expand the use of a walking-assist device to stroke rehabilitation centers. Read More »

Physical therapy efforts may be thwarted by copay

Physical therapy is just as effective as surgery for treating an impairment common with aging, but some older adults may forego the less invasive option because of Medicare copayments, a recent study found. Read More »

Partnership integrates wander management, security systems

Two companies will combine strengths of their wander management solutions through systems integration. Read More »

CMS to expand focused dementia care surveys

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services will expand its use of a targeted dementia care survey in fiscal year 2015, the agency relayed in a recent memo to state survey agency directors. Read More »

Thyroid drug interaction

Medications have to be coordinated to achieve the best results for the individual. Kathleen Mears’ blog illustrates the importance of a periodic medication review. Read More »