Resident Care

Medicare and Healthcare Fraud with Michael Frank

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 »

Over-the-counter pain relievers work as well as opioids

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 »

FDA approves, CMS proposes coverage for extensive cancer genomic test

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 »

Treat hypertension earlier and keep it lower, new guidelines say

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 »

TENA upgrades to breathable materials

TENA's premium incontinence products, made by Essity, are getting a makepover in breathable materials for better skin health. Read More »

U. Pitt, HERL develop waterproof, battery-free wheelchair

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 »

Simulating the sounds of dementia

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 »

Benzos may impact Alzheimer’s lifespan

Benzodiazepines, prescribed to lessen insomnia and anxiety, may be associated with an earlier death in those with Alzheimer’s disease. Read More »

The cleanliness factor

SNF resident blogger Kathy Mears shares how personal hygiene affects her mood and sense of self.  Read More »

Muscle mass, BMI and osteoarthritis

Body Mass Index (BMI) alone isn’t a reliable factor on osteoarthritis quality of life, according to new data. Read More »

Connecting with a church

SNF resident blogger Kathy Mears shares how she wishes she had more connection time with her local church. Read More »

2017 OPTIMA Award: The power of No

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 »

Refusing to be spoon-fed

A Washington state agency has drafted guidelines for people with dementia who don’t want to receive oral foods or fluids.  Read More »

Bill Gates invests $100M toward Alzheimer’s treatments

Gates is investing his own fortune toward dementia research and startups exploring new treatments. Read More »

Healthcare isn’t ready for Alzheimer’s treatments, study finds

Administering dementia treatments may be more difficult than developing them, according to a RAND report on healthcare infrastructure.  Read More »

Personalized doors help residents with dementia to find their way

Door decals are giving a Canadian memory care facility a new look and helping residents with wayfinding and navigation. Read More »

AANAC, AADNS founder and CEO to retire in 2018

The founder of the two long-term care nursing associations plans to step down after a nearly 20-year career in improving senior care. Read More »

Championing infection control

As the CMS regulations for infection control programs kick in, providers are finding that leadership matters as much as training. Read More »

Giving thanks for my roommate

In a year filled with changes, many of which were unexpected, SNF resident blogger Kathy Mears reflects on a relationship that has brought her good tidings of great cheer. Read More »

AARP Foundation sues to stop nursing home evictions

The organization is taking up its first court case on behalf of a woman with Alzheimer’s who was discharged from her nursing home without warning. Read More »

Calendar men and women

A Michigan retirement community is raising money and getting ready for the new year with a classic Hollywood twist. Read More »

Shopping for good

 A Virginia resale boutique pledged $125k toward a memory care retrofit at an area senior living facility. Read More »

NADONA and Ocean Spray partner to target antibiotic stewardship

The long-term care nursing organization and the juice company are teaming up on educational efforts to combat antibiotic resistance. Read More »

Senate passes bill to help locate people with Alzheimer’s

Kevin and Avonte’s Law would renew and expand resources for family members, first responders to find missing loved ones who wander, including those with dementia.  Read More »

To vaccinate, or not to vaccinate

The decision of whether to get the influenza vaccine has added considerations and consequences for those who work and live in long-term care facilities.  Read More »

CMS proposes new Immediate Jeopardy policy for SNFs

The draft policy could reduce the likelihood of high civil money penalties against skilled nursing providers for immediate jeopardy deficiences that resulted in no harm or death.  Read More »

ACHCA names new president and CEO

Bill McGinley has been tapped to lead the American College of Health Care Administrators (ACHCA).  Read More »

LTC associations urge Congress to keep the medical expenses tax deduction

The tax deduction for medical expenses is on the chopping block in the Trump Administration’s new tax reform bill, an elimination that could seriously hurt all seniors, especially those with dementia. Read More »

Dementia rises to No. 1 killer in Britain

Advocacy groups say the government’s £132 million funding for Alzheimer’s research needs to be doubled for at least the next five years. Read More »

Dining with dysphagia

Japan’s food industry is rethinking meal time with the rising number of seniors and deaths related to choking.  Read More »