Resident Care

Hot cocoa may benefit memory, but blood glucose an issue, too

One study finds that regularly drinking hot chocolate may improve memory and thinking, while other research ties higher blood glucose levels to higher dementia risk. So should you encourage seniors to start sipping or wait for more research? Read More »

Research reveals what makes SNF residents, families happy

New research reveals how nursing homes can improve their scores on satisfaction surveys of residents and families. The findings could take on added significance as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services considers moves that could affect the way SNFs are reimbursed. Read More »

Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s appear not to share genetic risk

Researchers try to pinpoint another possible connection between Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases as one study’s results seem to refute one idea. Read More »

Mostashari steps down from ONC

Farzad Mostashari, head of the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) for the past four years, has announced his resignation. Read More »

Anemia, dementia associated, researchers find

Investigators are theorizing why anemia and dementia might be linked as results from the Health ABC Study are published. Read More »

TV show focuses on elder abuse

Elder abuse can take many forms. A network talk show recently covered the subject in an effort to educate and inform the public of the need for vigilance and oversight. Read More »

Understanding homesickness

Unfamiliar surroundings, people and activities can induce homesickness in seniors who have not successfully transitioned from home to a new care environment. Read More »

Alzheimer’s, dental health links grow with new research

Good oral hygiene may be especially important in patients at risk for developing dementia, new research suggests. Read More »

PBS’ Frontline slams assisted living; communities cry foul

Updated 3:30 p.m.   Last night’s PBS documentary on assisted living has enraged many, both because of what it revealed and what it didn’t reveal. Read More »

Study finds diabetes drug extends health and lifespan of mice

International study focuses on whether a commonly prescribed medication can be repurposed to provide additional health benefits as people age. Read More »

Greenspring archers hit the bulls-eye in Cleveland

Steady hands and sharp eyes help two senior athletes score big at the National Senior Games’ archery competition, bringing home Gold and Bronze medals in their age groups. Read More »

60% of hospitalizations from SNFs can be avoided, study says

Appropriate care for many conditions that affect long-term care residents not only can reduce avoidable hospitalizations, but save healthcare dollars as well. Read More »

General anesthesia used during surgery can have a negative impact on the elderly

After undergoing an operation under general anesthesia, seniors may suffer side effects affecting their cognitive abilities, according to a recent study. Read More »

Waiting in the bathroom

One person’s bad day can create a bad day for everyone around. How an out-of-sorts aide caused her resident and her suitemates to be inconvenienced. Read More »

Athletes conquer the field, set new records at National Senior Games

Live coverage from the National Senior Games: Whether it's running the track, tossing a javelin, pole-vaulting or throwing a discus, senior athletes prove that winning the long race is about camaraderie while striving for their personal best. Read More »

Senior Games cyclist benefits from retirement community wellness center

Live coverage from the National Senior Games: One retirement community opened its wellness center membership to area residents and helped a National Senior Games cyclist prepare for the 2013 competition. Such centers can offer health advantages to everyday seniors as well—and reap benefits for retirement communities in the process. Read More »

Swimmers make a splash at the National Senior Games

Live coverage from the National Senior Games: Spending an afternoon watching senior swimmers go head to head in pursuit of a medal was a great way to refocus on the advantages of pursuing wellness. These fierce competitors are here for more than a dip in the pool. Read More »

Senior women seeking senior men… for sport

The opening of the National Senior Games means Cleveland is full of athletic seniors who are so eager to share their love of sports they’re willing to advertise it. Read More »

Seniors missing vaccinations, preventive care; geography affecting healthy life expectancy

Seniors are deficient in receiving certain preventive services, and where they reside could affect the number of years they can expect to live in good health, according to recent reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Read More »

New TeamSTEPPS program tackles safety & communication issues in LTC

Health professionals in Connecticut adapt the TeamSTEPPS safety training program specifically for long-term care settings. Read More »

Integrative medicine is an effective approach to chronic pain management

Recent research shows that the management of chronic pain, can be enhanced by incorporating holistic, person-centered practices, such as touch, yoga and acupuncture, in the therapeutic regimen. Read More »

A resident’s multiple facility moves

Transferring a resident from one facility to another can be a confusing, disheartening event, especially for an individual with dementia. Read More »

National Senior Games kick off in Cleveland

Thousands of champion athletes from across the country gather this month to compete for the nation’s top sports glories—and all the competitors are over 50. Read More »

Alzheimer’s research gets boost from genetic database

A new database of whole genome sequences aims to help scientists working to diagnose, treat, prevent and cure Alzheimer’s disease. Read More »

Medical students mentored by people with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease

First-year medical students “buddy” up with people with Alzheimer’s disease for a one-on-one learning experience, using a program developed by the Northwestern University Alzheimer’s Disease Center. Read More »

Is 90 the new 80?

People in their 90s increasingly have better overall functioning, according to one newly published study. Other recent research, however, indicates that improved public health programs focused on particular health issues may be necessary to help Americans reach that age. Read More »

Agencies seek strategies for nationwide falls management study

If your organization has a successful, multifaceted strategy for reducing falls, the National Institute on Aging wants your ideas for its next clinical trial. Read More »

AHCA/NCAL announces award recipients

AHCA/NCAL’s annual awards program highlights the efforts of exceptional caregivers and volunteers across the country. Read More »

2013 Women’s Choice Award of America’s Best Nursing Homes announced

WomenCertified® honors the nation’s top nursing homes as scored based on CMS’s Five-Star rating system and the preferences and priorities of women. Read More »

Multidisciplinary approach to LTC gains traction

The multidisciplinary approach to providing care with coordinated, goal-centered teams yields better outcomes for residents in long-term care facilities. Read More »