Makers of antibacterial products used in healthcare facilities are off the hook—for now. A recently announced FDA proposed rule on safety and effectiveness will be limited to over-the-counter soaps and body washes made for consumers. Read More »
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 survey of the 100 largest not-for-profit providers of senior care identifies strengths and weaknesses in the industry's use of technology. Read More »
G8 countries gathered for a summit in London have committed to identifying a cure or disease-modifying therapy for dementia by 2025 and to significantly increasing research funding to reach that goal. Read More »
Post-acute medication management and partnerships with long-term care facilities and others are two strategies put forth by two recent pieces of research examining ways to lower hospital readmissions. Read More »
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 »
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 »
All countries need to develop plans to provide and finance care for those with dementia, according to a new policy brief that notes a coming “epidemic.” Read More »
Several recent multimillion dollar Medicare fraud case convictions and settlements relate to the actions or alleged actions of skilled nursing facilities, home healthcare agencies and durable medical equipment companies and their employees. Read More »
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 »
During Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, the American Occupational Therapy Association shares tips for those helping seniors prepare for comprehensive driving evaluations. Read More »
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 »
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 »
Continuing issues with a government website mean that, for now, small employers will need to go through an insurance company, agent or broker to enroll in medical plans through the new federal marketplace. Read More »
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 »
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 »
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 »
Long-term care (LTC) companies that acquire and understand their data will be in a much stronger position as hospitals, managed care organizations and accountable care organizations look for LTC partners, experts say. Read More »
Medical and correctional care providers as well as advocacy groups are being encouraged to work together to devise guidelines for caring for those with violent criminal backgrounds or violent tendencies in long-term care facilities. Read More »
The government is encouraging family members to share health history information with one another on Thanksgiving. In addition to having a conversation at your own holiday table, you can mention the idea to residents and their families. Read More »
In a challenge being faced in other parts of the country, too, California soon will have to make difficult fiscal trade-offs in an attempt to balance the long-term care needs of its residents with demands related to other programs, a new report finds. Read More »
Under a proposed bill, SNFs meeting certain criteria based on Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services quality ratings automatically would qualify to waive the prior hospitalization requirement for Medicare coverage of Part A skilled nursing care benefits. Read More »
Encouraging residents to exercise may help them improve their mental and physical health as well as their fitness for and recovery from surgery, according to results of two new studies. Read More »
You can use a new poster from the government as part of your efforts to educate employees about the proper use of adult bed rails. It comes in English and Spanish language versions. Read More »
The eye holds clues to Alzheimer’s disease, according to one study. Another study, however, finds no association between a common age-related eye disease and dementia. Read More »
Three new studies and a new guideline on obesity and health from a government-convened panel have implications for medical, nursing, nutrition and activities personnel in long-term care environments. Read More »
Seniors who regularly donate their time to their favorite causes are physically healthier than those who don’t, according to new research. So think about encouraging volunteerism among residents. Read More »
