Elderly Americans have a new ally in preventing abuse by family, staff, home caregivers or other residents--the surveillance camera. A recent alleged case of abuse in New York was captured on camera. Read More »
Although mechanical lifts make moving a patient easier for the caregiver, safety can be compromised if the user does not know how to operate the lift properly. Read More »
In long-term care, residents can experience symptoms of seasonal depression, which might go unrecognized unless caregivers and families keep a watchful eye. Read More »
Emergency planning and preparation are keys to surviving a natural disaster; the recent six- to 10-foot snowfall in upstate New York serves as a punishing reminder. Read More »
Trash receptacles behind nursing homes and other care facilities are becoming a goldmine for drug addicts in search of controlled medications. Read More »
Treating a cold is not as simple as taking the latest advertised remedy off the shelf. If you live or work in a long-term care setting, let staff and residents know that choosing a cold reliever takes serious thought. Read More »
More personal alarm-based safety devices for aren't always better—for the residents or the organization. The wrong strategy can make bed and chair alarms a liability instead of a protection. Read More »
Two years later, repercussions from Superstorm Sandy are still being felt by some assisted living residents in Rockaway, NY. Is the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s effort to recoup undeserved funds a management error or resident fraud? Read More »
The holidays are coming up quickly. Now is the time to start to think about gifts for residents or a resident project to help less fortunate older people in the community. For more than a decade, one organization has helped to keep seniors' feet warm and dry throughout the winter. Read More »
Surveillance cameras don’t always provide the proof a resident’s family was expecting—sometimes it is worse. Kathleen Mears offers a resident's view on this monitoring technology. Read More »
The effects of high levels of radon gas in homes and buildings across the United States pose a serious risk of developing lung cancer. Take time to test now. Read More »
This year's LeadingAge HackFest attracted interest from Australia and resulted in several projects to benefit older adults and those who care for them. Read More »
While it’s challenging to maintain a completely pest-free facility, vigilance and professional attention are necessary to prevent infestations and provide a safe and healthy environment for residents and staff. Read More »
The media storm over the Ebola threat is creating fear and suspicion throughout the country. Being aware of the threat is smart, but being obsessed with the remote possibility of infection can be distracting. Read More »
For many people, autumn is their favorite time of year. The air is crisp, the foliage is brilliant and warm days still pop up occasionally, drawing residents outdoors. It is also the season when pollens, molds and other allergens contaminate the air and trigger allergic reactions. Read More »
Various conditions, including age, can affect how the body reacts to a psychotropic drug, such as Valium, as Kathleen Mears found out after decades of use. Read More »
The increasing use of electrical equipment in areas where patients/residents receive treatment has increased the need for more electrical outlets to accommodate the appliances/devices. Read More »
While two pneumonia vaccines are recommended to seniors for optimal protection, will cost/coverage discourage them from receiving the second vaccine? Read More »
Prescribing medication is an art form requiring the physician to weigh the delicate balance between a medication’s benefits and potential risks. Read More »
The final chapter in the series “12 Steps to QAPI” shows how preparation, organization, data and action can correct and improve processes to enhance the quality of care your residents receive. Read More »
Do you know what nursing facilities' obligations are when it comes to reporting and investigating claims of abuse or neglect? The Office of Inspector General has new recommendations to help ensure that you do. Read More »
In hospitals and long-term care settings, caregivers often have to change tubing on medical equipment. A high risk of misconnection exists because of various compatible delivery systems, so the Joint Commission has issued a Sentinel Event Alert. Read More »
Providing 24/7 RN coverage in nursing homes is the goal of a new bill introduced July 31. Having the most highly qualified professionals available ensures that residents receive optimal care at any hour of the day. Read More »
What’s for dinner? Are you planning and serving residents meals that are in line with the new dining standards? A new toolkit helps to implement these requirements. Read More »
When a problem is identified, QAPI Step 11 shows how to perform a root cause analysis so an effective remedy can be implemented to prevent future events and keep residents safe from harm. Read More »
It’s nearing that time of the year again when it's important to review your residents’ history of vaccinations and to schedule the various inoculations, including pneumonia, that will protect them from infections in the coming months. Read More »
In Texas, some nursing homes with serious violations have avoided penalties without correcting violations, according to a recent report by the Texas Sunset Commision. Read More »
