This year's mandates from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on recurring infection rates, new definitions for urinary tract infections in the 2017 RAI User’s Manual and the latest surveillance data on multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) made infection control one of 2017's biggest topics. Read More »
Memory care was top of mind for all provider sectors this year. The introduction of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ dementia-focused surveys, updates to the RAI Manual and definition changes in the state SOMs gave providers many reasons to improve their quality of care for residents with cognitive decline. Read More »
A growing number of healthcare providers are questioning the need for extensive cancer screening for seniors when the tests won’t significantly improve their quality of life. Read More »
The dementia rates in rural areas have dropped faster than rates in urban areas, but the reason might be surprising, notes a study from the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Read More »
The buildup of a specific chemical in the brain is an early sign of Huntington's dementia, and it could help with early detection of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, says a new study. Read More »
Northwestern University researchers have found a relationship between brain health and positive relationships in a study of social butterflies age 80 and older with sharp memories. Read More »
Make the holidays the most wonderful time of the year by using time-honored traditions and faith-based celebrations to engage residents with dementia. Read More »
Medication management can reduce the number of unnecessary prescriptions, many of which have potentially harmful side effects, and can improve overall health. Read More »
Scent-associated memories are among the strongest and most lasting, but how does the brain decide which memories to keep and which to discard over time? Read More »
Medicare is as hot a topic as ever with regards to healthcare policy and the United States government, but while elected officials debate over Medicare’s future, there’s one prevalent issue of which more people should be aware: Medicare fraud. Read More »
A new study finds acetaminophen and ibuprofen relieve pain as effectively as Percocet, Vicodin or Tylenol No. 3, suggesting a pain management option without risk of addiction. Read More »
The FoundationOne CDx (F1CDx) is a diagnostic test that can detect gene mutations for cancer, and its potential to help patients has spurred the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to pay for qualifying beneficiaries to be screened. Read More »
The first new high blood pressure guidelines in a decade suggest keeping blood pressure lower than previously recommended in order to improve cardiovascular and kidney health in later years. Read More »
Look, Gramma—no batteries! This new wheelchair operates using pressurized air instead of heavy batteries and electronics and recharges in just 10 minutes. Read More »
An Australian team has created a simulation to mimic how people with dementia hear, and it could affect the way memory care centers are designed. Read More »
The winner of the 2017 OPTIMA Award for Excellence in Memory Care has slashed its use of antipsychotics to just 3 percent by retraining its staff and implementing a strict “just say no” policy. Read More »
