Month: March 2013

Striking SNF workers are back on the job in Conn.

After months on the picket line and Supreme Court judgment, striking SNF workers return to their facilities and their residents hope the worst is behind them. Read More »

Nana and a belief in informatics within the nursing home

Those of us who have watched a loved one spend the last few years of their life in a nursing home know the pain and helplessness that comes from this experience. Studies have found communication breakdowns among staff can lead to lower quality of care. According to a University of Missouri researcher, the possible solution to this problem? Healthcare technology adoption. Read More »

JAMA: New diabetes drugs may double the risk of pancreatitis

Some of the newer medications for diabetes put the resident at increased risk for acute or chronic pancreatitis, notes a recent JAMA study. Read More »

Senior community defends nurse who refused CPR for dying resident

Glenwood Gardens, Bakersfield, Calif., a Brookdale Senior Living independent living community, is defending one of its nurses who refused pleas by a 911 operator to perform CPR on an elderly woman who later died, saying the nurse was following policy, according to news reports. Read More »

Transitioning to another antidepressant

Changing medications can be difficult as Long-Term Living blogger Kathleen Mears shares her experiences in switching antidepressant medications. Read More »

CMS: Penalties are working to reduce hospital readmissions

New data on hospital readmission shows that healthcare reform is making an impact--changing the rates for the first time in five years, says CMS. Read More »

Calif. plans 85% increase in LTC insurance rates for public employees

The California Public Employees’ Retirement System, the country's third-largest health benefits purchaser,  dropped a bombshell on its long-term care policyholders—switch LTC policies or deal with a massive rate increase. Read More »

A natural haven: Citation of Merit winner Haven Hospice Custead Care Center, Orange Park, Fla.

This fourth of four Environments for Aging Citation of Merit winners features a connection to nature as the inspiring force for its designers. Read More »

Iowa grapples with providing LTC for sex offenders

Everyone ages…even criminals and sex offenders. Specialized senior populations are adding new wrinkles to the fabric of long-term care. Read More »