When I found out Andy Rooney died over the weekend, I was unexpectedly saddened. For me, Andy Rooney represents my fondest thoughts about my own grandfather. He died from congestive heart failure, after...
Your Medicare future: Bigger pie, smaller slice
By
John O'Connor
Nov 12, 2018
I have seen the future of Medicare. Here’s what you can expect: Demand will grow the program; fiscal realities will shrink your share.
Let your voice be heard
By
Elizabeth Newman
Feb 25, 2015
A new study reaches important conclusions about how important it is to — literally — speak up for yourself. Not to do so is a mistake, something I can identify with.
Happy New Year. Now pay up.
By
John O'Connor
Jan 08, 2023
Minimum pay hikes took place in 27 states Jan. 1 , so look out, long-term care providers.
Struggling to understand this latest ‘viral’ nursing home story
By
Marty Stempniak
Mar 26, 2019
As a journalist, one should probably have a fairly firm grasp of what news items might catch fire and “go viral” across the interwebs. But as it turns out, this writer could, admittedly, using a little...
It’s time to take your medicine — seriously
By
Apr 18, 2017
People not following their doctors’ medication orders contributes to an estimated 125,000 deaths and 10% of hospitalizations per year, along with somewhere between $100 billion and $289 billion in...
Therapy with a twist (of lemon)
By
Tim Mullaney
Oct 01, 2013
As you read this, you might be eyeing the new RAI manual that takes effect today, and are feeling a bit overwhelmed at the sheer number of new pages. So it’s with great regret that I have to add...
Best is yet to come? Don’t tell that to providers
By
John O'Connor
Nov 09, 2012
When he gave his acceptance speech Tuesday night, President Obama told the nation that “the best is yet to come.” Many long-term care operators may not be in full agreement.
A failure to communicate
By
Mary Gustafson
Jun 21, 2012
Basic communication is often overlooked for nursing home managers. Promoting leadership among team members and empowering staff is effective in building teamwork.
In it for the long term
By
Feb 23, 2016
There was one positive highlight the day I started working as a cashier at a Culver’s restaurant long ago: meeting Betty. She had to at least be in her 80s. She was tiny and spunky, greeting us all...