Speedy assistance should be the norm when falls occur, but the reality is that it’s frequently a rarity. The staff is often stretched too thin. What can be done, aside from ensuring adequate staffing,...
The image of LTC in the arts
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Aug 01, 2017
Playwrights continue to do long-term care no favors, so providers need to continue to share stories of the good work they’re doing. It’s the way to help create a more realistic picture of LTC...
ElderTech: Ideas from a tech exhibit
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Jul 18, 2017
I was at the nursing station the other day when some unusual cracking noises caused me to look up from my documentation. A very old, petite lady was sitting in her wheelchair popping bubble wrap. She wore...
Why (culture) change is so hard and what to do about it
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Jul 05, 2017
The team huddled around the nursing station talking in panicked whispers after the management meeting ended. “How do they expect us to do that?” a young nurse wondered. “Yeah,”...
Promote your connections
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Jun 20, 2017
One of the things that most brightens my workday is when I see long-term care residents hanging out together.
The “last day” protocol
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Jun 06, 2017
I waited outside the room until the rehab therapists finished talking to Jim, who’d been admitted to the nursing home the night before.
The violent workplace
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
May 23, 2017
It’s impossible to prevent all tragic events at a long-term care facility, especially those involving an armed assailant entering the building despite an order of protection against him like in Ohio...
Opening the door for ombudsmen
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
May 09, 2017
I can imagine from an administrator’s point of view that an unexpected interruption from an ombudsman complaining about problems is not exactly a welcome visit, but perhaps there’s a way to...
Insights on family-friendly care from Dr. El — the daughter of a new resident
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Apr 25, 2017
Due to a series of unfortunate events, both of my previously independent parents were recently injured over the course of five weeks. Here are some thoughts from someone who’s seen the long-term...
On power, teamwork and communication
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Apr 11, 2017
Having enough of it at work, I tend to avoid drama in my entertainment choices unless it involves aliens or post-apocalyptic nonsense. My family and I are currently enjoying the creative spectacle of Project...