In one study of seriously ill older Canadians, 28 per cent of participants wanted “comfort care” (meaning no curative treatments) but this was documented in only four per cent of their charts.
(Shutterstock)
Twenty years since the Aged Care Act was introduced, the situation for older Australians remains dire. They’re sicker and have more complex care needs, but little access to medical care.
Two high-level reports on elder abuse in aged care in Australia have recommended better reporting systems.
from shutterstock.com
The rising global prevalence of dementia, particularly in the nursing home population, means aggressive behaviours between residents will increasingly be an issue.
Older people are most at risk during and after natural disasters like Hurricane Irma, which slammed into the coast of Florida last week.
AAP Image/NEWZULU/Julian Leek
The negative effects of job loss have been well-documented and fairly well-understood. But why would studies also suggest that health improves during a recession? The reasons may surprise you.
As more and more seniors need care, their budgets will be strained. As a result, they may rely on Medicaid.
gagliardiImages/Shutterstock.com
Medicaid, a state-federal entitlement program that people associate only with the poor, pays for care for more than six in 10 nursing home residents. That could be you, or someone you love.
How to identify a good care home.
via shutterstock.com
We tend to consider the deaths of older people, and especially those in care, are due to natural causes. But new research shows how many die from injuries and violence.
Families who are around at mealtimes can check their relatives are swallowing food properly and alert nursing home staff if there’s a problem.
from www.shutterstock.com
Poor oral health in our nursing homes can lead to many complications, including choking to death. Here’s how family and staff can help advocate for better care.
Allowing nursing home residents to come and go as they wish may not be so dangerous after all.
from www.shutterstock.com
As our population ages and life expectancy increases so does the need for comprehensive health and care services for older people.
Personal care attendants are responsible for residents’ personal hygiene – they’re not trained to undertake more complex assessments.
Reuters/Christian Hartmann
Nursing home providers looking to cut costs are bypassing registered nurses and employing less-skilled personal care attendants (PCAs) who aren’t trained for the job.
Life should never be reduced to sitting and waiting to die.
from www.shutterstock.com.au