Literature Review
All posts tagged with “Post-Acute Care News | ALF News.”
Senior living demand hits all-time high: NIC
04/09/25 at 03:00 AMSenior living demand hits all-time high: NIC McKnights Senior Living; by Kimberly Bonvissuto; 4/3/25 The demand for senior living is at an all-time high, with the first quarter seeing a record number of occupied units, almost 621,000, the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing & Care said Thursday afternoon [4/3]. Senior living occupancy rates increased 0.3 percentage points to 87.4% in the first quarter, up from 87.1% in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to the latest NIC MAP Senior Housing Market Fundamentals report. Independent living occupancy rose to 89%, up from 88.6% in the fourth quarter, whereas assisted living rates increased to 85.8% compared with 85.5% in the fourth quarter.
Global study finds 1 in 5 people with dementia receive no care
04/09/25 at 03:00 AMGlobal study finds 1 in 5 people with dementia receive no care McKnights Long-Term Care News; by Donna Shryer; 4/7/25 A comprehensive global study led by Yale School of Public Health researchers has revealed that at least 20% of people living with dementia receive no care helping them with daily living, regardless of their country’s wealth or development status. As the world’s population rapidly ages, this alarming care gap has persisted for years, creating what researchers describe as “a public health crisis.” The study analyzed data from over 10,000 individuals across the United States, England, 18 European nations, Israel and China. [Continue reading ...]
Strong social connections improve older adults’ well-being regardless of setting, study finds
04/08/25 at 03:00 AMStrong social connections improve older adults’ well-being regardless of setting, study finds McKnights Long-Term Care News; by Donna Shryer; 4/7/25 Social connections, trust in others in their community and community cohesion significantly improve elderly well-being whether seniors live at home or in nursing facilities, according to a new comparative study published in BMC Public Health. However, researchers found that nursing home residents generally reported lower subjective well-being compared to their community-dwelling counterparts, even after accounting for health status and demographic factors. ... According to the authors, these findings “indicate the necessity for tailored interventions that address the unique needs of each care environment to promote healthier aging experiences. [Continue reading ...]
Agrace named preferred hospice provider to Oakwood Village Communities
04/07/25 at 03:00 AMAgrace named preferred hospice provider to Oakwood Village Communities Agrace, Madison, WI; Press release; 4/2/25 Two pillars of Madison’s healthcare community are partnering to deliver exceptional care to patients and families: Oakwood and Agrace. Residents of Oakwood Village Communities who are in the final months of life now have a preferred partner for high-quality hospice care. Agrace, Wisconsin’s largest nonprofit hospice, has entered into a Preferred Partner Agreement with Oakwood for the care of its residents, effective immediately. “Agrace is honored to be named Oakwood’s Preferred Partner for delivering hospice care,” said Lynne Sexten, Agrace President & CEO. [Continue reading ...]
Primary palliative care in assisted living and residential care-A metasynthesis
04/05/25 at 03:00 AMPrimary palliative care in assisted living and residential care-A metasynthesisJournal of Hospice & Palliative Nursing; David, Daniel PhD, MS, BSN; Jimenez, Vanessa MPH, BS; Brody, Abraham A. PhD, RN, FAAN; 3/25Assisted living (AL) and residential care (RC) settings are experiencing substantial growth as older adults with lower care needs seek alternatives to nursing homes. Despite this trend, there is a lack of skilled nursing care to support palliative care (PC) in these environments. Studies highlighted challenges and opportunities for delivering primary PC in these environments, emphasizing the importance of addressing physical symptoms, psychological distress, social isolation, and spiritual needs among residents with serious illnesses. The metasynthesis underscores the critical role of primary PC in enhancing quality of life and care continuity for older adults residing in AL/RC settings. It also identifies gaps in current practices and emphasizes the need for tailored interventions and training to support care providers in delivering comprehensive PC to this population. By integrating qualitative research findings with the National Consensus Project guidelines, this metasynthesis provides a comprehensive overview of primary PC in AL/RC settings.
Shingles vaccine tied to lower dementia risk, study finds
04/04/25 at 02:00 AMShingles vaccine tied to lower dementia risk, study finds McKnights Long-Term Care News; by Kristen Fischer; 4/2/25 Older adults who were vaccinated against shingles were 20% less likely to develop dementia over the next seven years compared with people who didn’t receive the shot, a study shows. The report was published Wednesday in Nature. [Continue reading ...] Editor's note: Related articles ...
The most personal column I’ve ever written
04/03/25 at 03:00 AMThe most personal column I’ve ever written The Times, United Kingdom; by Professor Tanya Byron; 3/31/25 ... This column will be more personal than any other I have written in my now 20 years writing for The Times. I write it four days after my sister Katrina and I lost our beloved mum, Elfie, who ... had advanced end-stage dementia. Where do we start when trying to describe the many moments of heartbreak and the challenges that come with the long goodbye we have faced with our parents? Dementia is unpredictable. We say goodbye more than once and so the pain of bereavement does not begin at the time of death. Instead it is a prolonged pain marked by gradual losses. Watching a loved one slowly fade away over months or years brings grief, exhaustion and deep emotional turmoil. Amid all this is the experience of being on a rollercoaster of loss and hope, an experience that creates huge lurches between perceptions and emotions. There are moments of clarity and regression, ... [Continue reading ...]
Assisted Living vs. Memory Care: The key differences
04/01/25 at 03:00 AMAssisted Living vs. Memory Care: The key differences U.S. News & World Report; by Elaine K. Howley; 3/17/25 Age brings many challenges, among them a loss of independence that means some seniors will need help taking care of themselves. There are many senior living options available for folks who need hands-on support, and two common ones can provide big benefits for residents: assisted living and memory care. While these two options are similar in many ways, they have some important differences. Here, we’ll unpack everything you need to know about these two senior living options so you can find the best type of care for your loved one. ... [Continue reading ...]
White House cuts $12B in health funds: 5 updates
04/01/25 at 02:00 AMWhite House cuts $12B in health funds: 5 updates Becker's Hospital Review; by Madeline Ashley and Kristin Kuchno; 3/26/25 HHS has abruptly canceled more than $12 billion in grants to state health departments that supported efforts to track infectious diseases, expand mental health services and modernize outdated systems, according to The New York Times. Late March 25, state health departments started receiving notices that $11.4 billion in grants from the CDC and roughly $1 billion in funds from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration were being canceled immediately. “No additional activities can be conducted, and no additional costs may be incurred, as it relates to these funds,” the notices said, according to the Times. [Continue reading ...]
Calvary Hospital doubles down on palliative care and hospice expansion
03/26/25 at 03:00 AMCalvary Hospital doubles down on palliative care and hospice expansion Becker's Hospital Review; by Kelly Gooch; 3/24/25 Michael Fosina began serving as president of Calvary Hospital in New York City in January, bringing decades of healthcare experience to the role. ... Mr. Forsina told Becker’s he’s excited about Calvary’s mission as the organization celebrates its 125th anniversary. Recently, the hospital integrated services with its parent organization, ArchCare, the healthcare ministry of the Archdiocese of New York. Mr. Fosina shared his perspective on Calvary’s role in New York and its future in meeting patient needs. ... [Michael Fosina described:] "ArchCare has all of the components of post-acute care when you include our end-of-life hospital and our hospice program. The integration allows us to accept patients, move patients around, have them stay connected with the physician — the team physician. So the transitions of care are not as dramatic as if you’re going from one organization to the next organization." [Continue reading ...]
Trellis Supportive Care to host day of support for caregivers
03/25/25 at 03:00 AMTrellis Supportive Care to host day of support for caregiversThe Chronicle, Winston-Salem, NC; by WS Chronicle; 3/22/25 Trellis Supportive Care is hosting a day of support for caregivers, free of charge and open to the public. The program, “Caring for You: A Day of Support for Family Caregivers,” is set for Friday, April 4, from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the Intergenerational Center for Arts and Wellness in Winston-Salem. This full-day program is both a retreat and educational day for caregivers. “We understand that caregivers are often unable to attend events such as this, therefore, we are removing that barrier,” shared Jacob Gordon, director of community programming with Trellis Supportive Care. For those responsible for caring for an adult family member, Trellis is arranging respite care in coordination with local partner agencies so that caregivers can attend. ... “We hope this provides an opportunity for people to regroup, rejuvenate, and leave with valuable tips for moving forward as a caregiver,” shared Gordon.
Hosparus Health hosts senior resource fair for community
03/21/25 at 03:00 AMHosparus Health hosts senior resource fair for community NBC WNKY News 40, Bowling Green, KY; by Noah Faerber; 3/18/25 Hosparus Health invited partners from the community to WKU’s Medical Science Complex for a senior resource summit. It offered seniors a chance to speak with different organizations that can help them prepare for their future. From Bowling Green Parks & Rec’s fitness department to different healthcare groups, staff were excited to have so many groups out to help look toward what’s next.
Weinstein Hospice launches innovative VR initiative: : The program will allow residents to enjoy "bucket list" experiences
03/20/25 at 03:00 AMWeinstein Hospice launches innovative VR initiative: The program will allow residents to enjoy "bucket list" experiences Atlanta Jewish Times; by AJT Staff; 3/12/25 Jewish HomeLife and Weinstein Hospice are pioneering a new way to bring joy, comfort, and meaningful experiences to hospice patients through the groundbreaking Weinstein Hospice VR Initiative. This transformative program harnesses the power of virtual reality (VR) to fulfill unforgettable “bucket list” experiences, offering patients moments of joy and cognitive stimulation that transcend their physical limitations. For Vicki and Ed A., this initiative has been nothing short of miraculous. ... One of the most profound moments for Ed came when he was able to experience Scuba diving again—virtually. ...
Mannford nursing home quickly evacuated seniors as wildfire neared
03/19/25 at 03:00 AMMannford nursing home quickly evacuated seniors as wildfire neared2 News Oklahoma, Mannford, OK; by Douglas Braff; 3/15/25Our crews have seen selflessness on full display in Mannford after March 14’s wildfires. ... As the wildfire was approaching nearby neighborhoods, staff at Cimarron Point Care Center in Mannford had to act quickly to get the 44 seniors living there out of harm’s way. “There are lots of things that need to be done, and it takes a lot of teamwork,” Frank Sullivan [the owner of CPCC] pointed out. ... Luckily, he said local authorities gave him an early heads up so the nursing home would have time. ... While most residents were transported by school bus, he noted, “Several had to be transported by ambulances. Some of 'em are on hospice ... and their condition is dire.”
Medicaid’s role in health and in the health care landscape: LDI expert insights and key takeaways from select publications
03/19/25 at 03:00 AMMedicaid’s role in health and in the health care landscape: LDI expert insights and key takeaways from select publications Penn LDI - Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, Philadelphia, PA; by Julia Hinckley, JD; 3/17/25... Medicaid accounts for one-fifth of U.S. health care spending and covers more than a quarter of Americans. LDI researchers have examined the services it provides in supporting aging adults, people with disabilities, and children, as well as its role in health crises such as chronic disease and suicide. ... Below are select key findings from recent peer-reviewed research, along with expert insights for policymakers considering changes to Medicaid funding in the federal budget.
Assisted Living Facility owner indicted, facing numerous felony charges
03/19/25 at 03:00 AMAssisted Living Facility owner indicted, facing numerous felony charges Knoxville Daily Sun; 3/17/25 ... In June 2024, after receiving a referral from Adult Protective Services, [the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Medicaid Fraud Control Division (TBI)] special agents began investigating allegations involving Wendy Henley, the owner of Sunset Gardens Assisted Living Facility in Mountain City. ... [Agents] learned that Henley used a patient’s insurance benefits card to purchase items for the facility. In July, ... they discovered that seventeen residents, including two hospice patients, had been left in the care of two juveniles who were not authorized to provide direct patient care. Agents requested an immediate response from the Tennessee Health Facilities Commission and evacuated the facility, transferring the residents to other local facilities to assure their safety and continued care.
Revamped tool can reliably assess pain symptoms in dementia patients: researchers
03/19/25 at 02:00 AMRevamped tool can reliably assess pain symptoms in dementia patients: researchers McKnights Long-Term Care News; by Zee Johnson; 3/17/25 ... A team of researchers reconstructed the End-of-Life Dementia-Comfort Assessment in Dying, or EOLD-CAD, after a multifacility study showed that caregivers could adequately and reliably address a host of pain symptoms seen in end-of-life dementia patients. ... When clinicians working in the SNFs that were part of the trials used the EOLD-CAD, they were able to detect patterns in more than 600 residents that fell into four categories: physical distress, symptoms of dying, emotional distress, and well-being. Common symptoms observed across these categories were restlessness, shortness of breath, choking, gurgling, difficulty in swallowing, fear and anxiety. ...
Is Medicare ready for an aging america? Home-based care offers hope
03/17/25 at 03:00 AMIs Medicare ready for an aging america? Home-based care offers hope RealClear Health; by Jonathan Fleece, JD (President and CEO of Empath Health) and Dr. Steve Landers (CEO of the National Alliance for Care at Home); 3/12/25Too often, families face an impossible situation: a loved one is ready to leave the hospital, but no home health provider is available. Or they’re told hospice is the best option, but administrative red tape delays access to comfort and support. These failures put patients at risk. ... This experience underscores why policymakers must protect and expand access to home-based care—before more patients fall through the cracks. ... According to one analysis, in a recent three year period, hospital stays for patients waiting to be discharged to post-acute care providers increased by 24 percent, deteriorating health outcomes and quality of life. Discharge delays – caused by hospital capacity issues and workforce shortages – not only cause harm to patients; they also add unnecessary strain and costs on our healthcare system.
Questions to ask when choosing a memory care facility
03/13/25 at 03:00 AMQuestions to ask when choosing a memory care facility The Kansas State Collegian; 3/10/25 ... Your goal is to find a community where your family member can feel safe, truly cared for, and supported during this next chapter of their life. To help, we’ve put together a list of questions you should ask when touring memory care facilities. These questions will help you cut through the sales pitches and get to the heart of what each community offers. ...
J-Sei Home closes after 30 years, leaving Bay Area Japanese seniors in need
03/11/25 at 03:00 AMJ-Sei Home closes after 30 years, leaving Bay Area Japanese seniors in need KQED, San Francisco, CA; by Cecilia Lei; 3/10/25 ... For decades, Bay Area Japanese American families have sought culturally sensitive senior care facilities like J-Sei Home for aging loved ones. Community members said that about a decade ago, there were approximately 10 Japanese senior care homes in the region. Today, that number has declined by about half. The most recent closure came in January, when the last residents of J-Sei Home moved out, and the facility permanently closed its doors after 30 years of operation. A majority of the displaced residents were Japanese Americans in their 90s and had cognitive impairment. ... They had tender caregivers who spoke Japanese. They ate familiar comfort foods like miso soup and pickled vegetables, and they participated in daily activities such as drum circles and singing Japanese songs. ...
Assessing pain, anxiety and other symptoms of nursing home residents unable to speak for themselves
03/11/25 at 03:00 AMAssessing pain, anxiety and other symptoms of nursing home residents unable to speak for themselves Regenstrief Institute, Indianapolis, IN; by Kathleen T. Unroe, MD, MHA; 3/10/25 Revamped tool reliably addresses physical and emotional distress, well-being and end-of-life symptoms. As many as half of nursing home residents are cognitively impaired and may be unable to communicate symptoms such as pain or anxiety to the staff and clinicians caring for them. Therefore, information needed for the evaluation of symptoms and subsequent treatment decisions typically does not reliably exist in nursing home electronic health records (EHRs). A new paper reports on the novel adaptation of a commonly used symptom assessment instrument to more comprehensively acquire this difficult-to-obtain data with the ultimate goal of enabling knowledge-based expansion of palliative care services in nursing homes to address residents’ symptoms.
The twofold challenge of an older population — and how systems are adapting
03/07/25 at 03:00 AMThe twofold challenge of an older population — and how systems are adapting Becker's Hospital Review; by Kelly Gooch and Kristin Kuchno; 2/21/25 In less than a decade, older Americans are projected to outnumber children for the first time in U.S. history, sparking conversations about the need for age-friendly healthcare. At the same time, declining birth rates and longer life expectancies — half of babies born in 2020 are expected to live past 100 years — pose potential workforce challenges. Becker's connected with four health system leaders to explore the challenges this demographic shift presents and how they are preparing to address it. [Click on the title's link to continue reading.]
Humana selects Thyme Care for oncology services
03/04/25 at 03:00 AMHumana selects Thyme Care for oncology services MociHealthNews and HIMSS Media; by Anthony Vecchione; 3/3/25 Humana has unveiled an agreement with value-based cancer care platform Thyme Care with the aim of providing oncology support for its Medicare Advantage (MA) members. The agreement impacts MA members who reside in Michigan, New York, Illinois, Indiana, Tennessee, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Eligible Humana members will have access to Thyme Care’s services, which include 24/7 virtual care navigation. Additionally, patients will be connected to a care team made up of oncology nurses, nurse practitioners, social workers and resource specialists. Thyme Care's team will provide medication guidance, urgent care support, chronic condition management and palliative care support.
Breaking bad news: Guidance on disclosing a dementia diagnosis
03/04/25 at 03:00 AMBreaking bad news: Guidance on disclosing a dementia diagnosis Medscape; by Megan Brooks; 3/3/25 As biomarker testing for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) evolves, timely and compassionate disclosure of a diagnosis is more complex than ever. Yet, clinicians may struggle with how — or in some cases whether — to disclose that a patient has mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia. A recent perspective offers a practical roadmap to help clinicians navigate these challenging conversations. The authors from the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, noted that disclosure of a dementia diagnosis “is particularly nuanced and requires a conscientious approach. Clinicians must assess patients’ understanding and appreciation of symptoms, goals for the evaluation, and desire for information.”
Flu cases continue to rise across the country
02/13/25 at 03:00 AMFlu cases continue to rise across the countryABC 6 News, Rochester, MN; by KAALTV; 2/10/25Flu cases are continuing to rise across the country as doctor visits for flu-like symptoms are now reaching their highest point in 15 years. The CDC estimates at least 24 million illnesses this flu season alone, with 13,000 turning deadly. Right now, about 31% of flu tests are coming back positive, nearly double the peak from last season. Doctors say your best line of defense is vaccination.Editor's note: We see this surge across news media sources, and compiled this state-specific list for you.