Resident Care

AMDA’s program targets antipsychotic drug use for dementia

A new program developed by AMDA teaches long-term care staffers and doctors how to recognize, assess and treat symptoms of dementia while minimizing the use of antispychotic drugs. Read More »

Cognitive decline, cold sores linked

Researchers have linked the same virus that causes cold sores to cognitive decline in people of all ages. One action may help prevent ill effects on the brain, however. Read More »

A pillow’s antics cause a panic

Some days, a simple incident can induce an out-of-character reaction, as LTL blogger Kathy Mears discovered recently. Read More »

American seniors may be less tired, more alert

Do seniors have more energy than younger Americans? A new study looks at the concept of tiredness in the U.S. population. Read More »

Type 2 diabetes: Its effect on dementia risk for older adults in ethnic minorities

Researchers explore Type 2 diabetes as it relates to high risk of dementia for certain ethnic groups, including Native Americans and African-Americans. Read More »

Healthcare: The personality factor

Does an individual's personality influence his or her healthcare choices and regimen? A new study looks at the psychological factors in healthcare utilization. Read More »

Seniors with dementia benefit from exercise

Improved cognition and ability to perform activities of daily living are two benefits seniors experience when they exercise, according to a new review of 16 studies. The authors say more research is needed, however. Read More »

Hospice workers highlighted by series

Those who missed the original run of Showtime's hospice-related documentary series can view it on demand or online. The cable network's website also has a resource guide for caregivers and others. Read More »

Patient safety remains a priority in 2014

Fall prevention, HAIs and pressure ulcers remain a focus for the Joint Commission's 2014 National Patient Safety Goals. Read More »

Exercise offers benefits even if begun later in life, study finds

Another study finds that even seniors who begin exercising later in life can experience significant health benefits. Read More »

Holiday shopping

LTL blogger Kathy Mears gives some insight on the best  and most appreciated gifts to give residents in long-term care facilities. Read More »

Medication errors: Prescriptions for safety

Diligent strategies to avoid medication errors can improve resident care and reduce business risk. Read More »

Tidings of comfort and joy

The holiday season also is a time of reflection and new beginnings that can make our lives more meaningful. Judah Ronch, PhD, shares his visit with The Sopranos' Dominic Chianese. Read More »

Dementia-related training materials available

An organization is offering PowerPoint slides, handouts, pre-tests and tests and post-tests, evaluation forms and certificates for staff, family, volunteers, students and others. Read More »

6 ways you can ensure senior safety on the roads

During Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, the American Occupational Therapy Association shares tips for those helping seniors prepare for comprehensive driving evaluations. Read More »

Sharing beauty, celebrating seniors

One senior living provider found a way to share beauty this holiday season while celebrating the talents of residents. What does your community do? Read More »

Better bathing for larger residents

Regardless of personal preferences, technology has made bathing a more pleasurable and thorough experience, especially for residents with bariatric issues. Read More »

Bloodstream infections addressed in Joint Commission toolkit

New resources released by the Joint Commission and sister organizations aim to educate healthcare professionals about ways to prevent central line-associated bloodstream infections, or CLABSIs. Read More »

New medication management guideline focuses on long-term care settings

Experts have updated an existing medication management guideline to make it specific to the long-term care environment, with information of use to nurse practitioners, nurses, pharmacists, physicians and physician assistants who are part of interdisciplinary teams taking care of residents. Read More »

Palliative care conversations crucial to ensuring choices

Avoiding discussions about prognosis and care goals may deny patients what they need to make informed choices. But what happens when the people skirting the conversation are the clinicians? Read More »

Hand hygiene gets special attention this week

Those working in long-term care settings should be sure to practice hand hygiene at four key times, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This week is National Handwashing Awareness Week. Read More »

Planning a holiday visit

Long-Term Living blogger Kathleen Mears shares her well-thought-out travel plans, which will enable her to enjoy a postponed Thanksgiving feast with her family.  Read More »

Pressure ulcer prevention program uses new patient monitor

Wireless patient monitoring technology serves as the centerpiece for a pressure ulcer prevention program.  Read More »

Task force names 5 high-priority areas for senior health

Not enough evidence exists to recommend routine screening in those not showing signs or symptoms of cognitive impairment, says the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force in a draft recommendation. The group also has released a list of five areas in senior health that it believes deserve more research. Read More »

Seniors lacking in communication of end-of-life wishes: survey

Many older Americans have not thought of or shared their wishes regarding how they want to be treated medically at the end of their lives, according to a new survey. Read More »

Interdisciplinary field looks at aging as a risk factor for chronic disease

The emerging interdisciplinary field of geroscience maintains that aging itself is the major risk factor for most chronic diseases prevalent in the older population. Learn more. Read More »

Meditation, yoga may slow dementia progression

New research may have you considering adding meditation and yoga to your activities schedule. Read More »

The mystery of the puzzling printer

Personal possessions are precious to LTC residents, especially to Kathleen Mears who uses her technology to give Long-Term Living readers a window to the pleasures and problems residents may experience in facility life. Read More »

It’s never too late to quit

A new study offers updated evidence on reducing the recovery time for seniors from the effects of smoking. Read More »

Songs of the soul

Personalized music therapy programs reach into the silent corridors where those with dementia dwell. Read More »