by
Kathy Wetters on
May 25, 2011
A study of older married couples that gives new meaning to the matrimonial adage "for better or worse" finds that spouses have a much greater impact on their partner's health than previously known.
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by
Kathy Wetters on
May 25, 2011
What gives? All too often, experts, say, the problems that send patients back to the hospital might have been avoided if there had been a better handoff from the hospital to the people responsible for the next phase in a patient's recovery, whether it's the patient himself and his family, a home health agency, a nursing home or a hospice. "We don't do a good job of coordinating care," says Patricia Rutherford, vice president at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement.
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by
Kathy Wetters on
May 24, 2011
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently published the interim final rule for implementing the Family Caregiver Program of the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act 2010.
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by
Kathy Wetters on
May 23, 2011
If an elderly relative starts to need help to get through the day, families who want to avoid institutions often face two choices: hire a home care aide or become one yourself. Both options allow the older person to remain at home, where he or she may be most comfortable, but each has its own pitfalls.
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by
Kathy Wetters on
May 23, 2011
When looking at options for in-home care, determining the best option can get complicated quickly. It is important to understand the benefits, drawbacks and responsibilities of the different options available before making a decision.
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by
Kathy Wetters on
May 21, 2011
Study indicates that intense dietary treatment in elderly reduces mortality and can help reduce the need for re-hospitalization.
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by
Kathy Wetters on
May 20, 2011
The theme of this year's celebration is Older Americans: Connecting the Community which recognizes the many ways in which older adults bring inspiration and continuity to the fabric of our communities. It also highlights the many ways technology is helping older Americans live longer, healthier and more engaged lives. Older Americans Month is celebrated through ceremonies, events, fairs and other such activities.
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by
Kathy Wetters on
May 20, 2011
As talk of reimbursement reform and pay-for-performance escalates and health care stakeholders look at ways to improve patient access and outcomes while reducing waste and costs, payers and providers are joining together to create accountable care organizations (ACOs), partnerships that agree to be accountable for the quality, costs, and overall care of a patient population.
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by
Kathy Wetters on
May 18, 2011
Twenty-four hour cycles, known as circadian rhythms, are important for proper body functions, including for normal brain function and mental health. Disruptions of circadian rhythms and sleep-wake cycles have been observed in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
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by
Kathy Wetters on
May 17, 2011
Although hoarding has been studied in adults, little is known about problems of hoarding by elderly people.Most elderly hoarders in study were female, unmarried, and lived alone. Extensive clutter was associated with significant impairment, interfering with basic hygiene, and posing a serious physical threat for many elderly clients.
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