Key CDC advisers set to scrutinize evidence for vaccine booster shots
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 11, 2021
The question of whether a COVID-19 booster shot will be helpful and safe may receive an answer Friday. That is when the CDC’s top vaccine advisers will meet to review updated evidence for recommending...
Seniors who become dizzy soon after standing risk a fall: study
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 11, 2021
Older patients should be routinely evaluated for a symptomless cause of chronic dizziness that can raise the odds of a fall within 12 months, investigators say.
NIH highlights decade of Alzheimer’s advancements tied to small business investments
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 11, 2021
A new paper showcases the results of 11 years of federal investment in dementia research, including advancements in care intervention, diagnostics and therapeutics.
Clinical briefs for Wednesday, Aug. 11
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 11, 2021
Proposed bill ‘great first step’ toward addressing long-term care workforce challenges … CMS offers new Section K assessment and coding training for SNF providers … ‘POLST is more than a code...
As Fauci warns of letting virus run rampant, new variant causes 7 long-term care facility deaths in Belgium
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 10, 2021
Unchecked COVID-19 transmission among the unvaccinated could cause problems for the vaccinated, a top federal health official says. In Belgium, a new variant has caused severe illness in residents who...
Genesis facilities resolve allegations in connection with denying admission to opioid-dependent seniors
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 09, 2021
Prospective residents were taking either buprenorphine or methadone for opioid use disorder. Twelve SNFs must pay civil penalties, adopt non-discrimination policy and provide training on civil rights laws...
Residents’ lack of energy may signal malnutrition; full assessment advised
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 10, 2021
In a study of 13 nursing homes, fully 43% of residents reported that they lacked energy, and 12% were malnourished. The two problems were significantly linked, investigators say.
Clinical briefs for Tuesday, Aug. 10
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 10, 2021
BioNTech: Third dose — not new drug — is the best path for boosting COVID-19 vaccine efficacy … Connecticut: Long-term care workers must vaccinate or face fines … Older adults with poor hearing...
New CDC data: Vaccinated older adults have low chance of COVID hospitalization
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 09, 2021
The three FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective in keeping the oldest adults out of the hospital, according to federal data released Friday.
Show us the data: COVID vaccine boosters may get go-ahead, but LTC docs remain wary
By
Alicia Lasek
Danielle Brown
Aug 09, 2021
Booster shots for the most vulnerable appear to be on a fast track to federal authorization. But clinicians want information about necessity, safety, dosing and more to justify prescribing an extra dose...