Bone scans may offer window into women’s heart disease risk
By
Alicia Lasek
May 11, 2021
A clinical diagnosis of thin and brittle bones is strongly linked to adverse health events from heart attack and stroke due to atherosclerosis, according to a new study. DXA scan results could be used...
Surgery rates fall in elders; improved screening may be reason
By
Alicia Lasek
May 11, 2021
Despite an aging population and safer surgical procedures, the frequency of abdominal surgery is decreasing among older adults — particularly in those age 85 and older, according to researchers from...
Clinical briefs for Tuesday, May 11
By
Alicia Lasek
May 11, 2021
Dementia diagnoses and mental health service use drop among elders during pandemic … Alzheimer’s patients’ depression scores rose after pandemic lockdown … Fully 71% of U.S. seniors now vaccinated...
CDC debuts injury prevention campaign for elders, says most ED visits due to falls
By
Alicia Lasek
May 10, 2021
More than 90% of seniors’ emergency department visits are due to falls — and rates are increasing, the CDC says. The agency’s new Still Going Strong campaign offers prevention information...
CMS now offering cognitive, mood assessment training for SNF providers
By
Alicia Lasek
May 10, 2021
The training includes four virtual, on-demand courses that give providers an overview of key clinical considerations for performing these assessments in the nursing home setting, the agency announced.
Eye drop corrects late-life vision loss in trial; Allergan reports patients’ feedback
By
Alicia Lasek
May 10, 2021
Trial participants reported significant near-vision improvements under low-light conditions — without losing distance vision, reports Allergan, which is seeking FDA approval for the drug.
Clinical briefs for Monday, May 10
By
Alicia Lasek
May 10, 2021
COVID vaccination reduces infection in healthcare workers, new studies show … An inside look at one state’s push to keep at least 90% of LTC residents vaccinated … Aerosol-generating procedures unlikely...
Nursing home study is first to affirm fed’s choice to prioritize residents, staff for COVID vaccines
By
Alicia Lasek
May 07, 2021
A new industry study provides real-world evidence that the sharp drop in COVID-19 cases and deaths after initial vaccine clinics were in fact due to the shots, and that the vaccines are protecting residents,...
CMS must refine data on antipsychotic drug use in nursing homes, OIG says
By
Alicia Lasek
May 07, 2021
The Minimum Data Set should not be CMS’ sole source for determining the number of nursing home residents using antipsychotic drugs, according to a new report from HHS’ Office of the Inspector General.
Pulmonary rehab may ease COVID pneumonia recovery, follow-up study shows
By
Alicia Lasek
May 07, 2021
A year-long lung health study suggests that recovered COVID-19 pneumonia patients could benefit from tailored clinical follow-up, an exercise program, and treatment to prevent chronic disease.