Sandra Hoban

Sandra Hoban was on I Advance Senior Care / Long-Term Living’s editorial staff for 17 years. She is one of the country’s longest-serving senior care journalists. Before joining Long-Term Living, she was a member of the promotions department at Advanstar Communications. In addition to her editorial experience, Sandi has served past roles in print and broadcast advertising as a traffic and talent coordinator.

Senate committee compares international approaches to Alzheimer’s and dementia

The United States is not alone in confronting and caring for the increasing numbers of people with Alzheimer’s and other related dementias. Read More »

New norovirus challenges long-term care providers

Add a new norovirus to the list of contagious agents in an already busy flu season for long-term care providers. Read More »

Fall management program reduces falls by 53 percent

Whether residents are in short-stay rehab or LTC units, providing the right physical environment backed by staff commitment, can improve mobility and, ultimately, reduce falls. Here’s how one LTC community did just that. Read More »

Brain pacemakers offer promise to treat Alzheimer’s

If deep brain stimulation can help patients with movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, might it not be effective in treating those with Alzheimer’s disease? Read More »

Study suggests hearing loss may link to cognitive deficits

A new study suggests that hearing loss in the elderly can have serious consequences for brain functioning. Read More »

Study: Online doctor consults can be as effective as office visits

Not every illness warrants face-to-face physician care. A new study suggests logging on can save time and money. Read More »

Treasury Department urges direct deposit of federal benefit checks

The end of the paper trail for Social Security checks is near as the March 31, 2013 deadline for enrolling for a direct deposit to a bank account or debit card approaches. Read More »

The ups and downs of vertical transport

An out-of-order elevator can not only be inconvenient, but it can also present a safety hazard, as one Canadian long-term care facility recently learned. Read More »

Skilled nursing care faces more Medicare cuts

Over the next 10 years, SNFs will face $65 billion in Medicare cuts. Have they been pushed off the fiscal cliff as Medicare payments continue to be reduced for skilled care? Read More »

HHS extends filing deadline for state insurance exchanges

While the original filing deadline has passed, states have been given another extension for compliance with Obamacare’s health insurance exchange mandate. Read More »

Long-term care insurance rates become gender based

Because of the stronger likelihood that more women will access benefits than men, long-term care insurance providers are rethinking their policy premiums. Read More »

Bed rails may cause harm to long-term care residents

Properly installed bed rails can be protective devices, but if misused or improperly installed/maintained, they can be unsafe for the elderly long-term care resident—even deadly. Read More »

Assisted living census grows in aftermath of Superstorm Sandy

When tidal surges and flood waters from Superstorm Sandy damaged or completely washed away homes this past November, many independent, elderly homeowners began to rethink their housing and safety options. Read More »

Study: MRIs help to identify dementia type

Some memory lapses are a normal part of aging.  However, when quality of life and daily functioning are disturbed, accurately diagnosing the type of dementia is necessary for treatment. Read More »

A waiting game for Medicaid reimbursements in Illinois

A prolonged wait for state Medicaid reimbursement can place a long-term care organization in financial jeopardy. Read More »

SNF group promotes patient-driven post-acute care reform

 The “fiscal cliff” has been averted but post-acute care still faces Medicare challenges. Read More »

Enrollment policies restrict access to hospice care

Results from a national survey indicate that enrollment criteria contributes to underuse of hospice services. Read More »

Redecorate with 2013’s forecasted “hot” colors

The new year is only days away, but it’s not too early to “think Spring.” Consider refreshing the environment of your facility or incorporating the “now” hues into your remodel or construction plans. Read More »

Poor vision in older adults: A link to social isolation

Older adults with vision problems curtail social activities because of a fear of falling. Read More »

IT predictions, trends and challenges for 2013 from IDC

What’s trending for IT in 2013? International Data Corporation (IDC) offers its predictions. Read More »

Injunction sends Conn. nursing home workers back to work

Nursing home workers return to work while their union and employer try to resolve the dispute. Read More »

Report examines state legislatures’ 2012 impact on the assisted living industry

Whether legislation and regulation were proposed, enacted or pending, state governments had a busy year reviewing the assisted living industry. Read More »

A positive outlook on aging aids in recovery from disabilities

Maintaining a positive outlook on aging helps many seniors recover from disabilities and extend independence, study finds Read More »

By dawn’s early light

The “Greatest Generation” is fading like a photograph left in the sun. Make every day a day of remembrance and gratitude for their contributions to our families and our country. Read More »

Studies link vitamin D to cognitive health

Two studies link vitamin D to supporting cognitive health in seniors. Findings show that nutrition is an important part of healthy aging. Read More »

Survey: Voters want nursing homes off the ‘cliff’

Legislators may have a bitter pill to swallow at election time if Medicare cuts become part of the fiscal cliff deal. Read More »

Study shows where seniors enjoy the best health-related quality of life in U.S.

New Hampshire has the healthiest seniors, according to new research presented at this past November’s Gerontological Society of America’s annual conference. Read More »

Seniors to Congress: Don’t push us off the ‘fiscal cliff’

A post-election survey shows that seniors 50+ years of age do not want changes to Medicare or Social Security at this time. Read More »

One-on-one with… Eileen Malo

Eileen Malo, CEO of Schervier Nursing Care Center in Riverdale, N.Y., shares her insights on continuing to provide efficient and compassionate care to the growing numbers of seniors whether they reside in an LTC facility or in the community. Read More »

Dementia-friendly bathing

Bathing a person with Alzheimer's or other dementias can be a challenge and a frustration for the individual and the caregiver. Cindy Keith, RN, BS, is a certified dementia practitioner, lecturer and trainer. Her practical advice can ensure that frayed nerves, tempers, and emotions will not "bubble" up to ruin what should be a pleasurable experience. Read More »