Despite the fact that my search for column inspiration took place at 3 a.m., I chose the topic of sleep deprivation because residents regularly tell me about their own sleep disturbances. They also discuss...
Self-care, team-care and an empty well
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Jan 29, 2019
While it’s tempting for organizations to meet staffing needs with someone who always says yes, good managers recognize that such requests can push employees to the brink.
The ticklish balancing act: Resident rights vs. care quality
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
May 08, 2018
Balancing the rights and desires of residents with the need of the facility to avoid citation and litigation can be very tricky, but the payoff can be definitely worth it when done right. Here’s...
Falls: A closer look
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Aug 15, 2017
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,...
6 steps to manage post-election reactions in LTC
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Nov 22, 2016
The 2016 presidential election has revealed a deep rift in our country, and quite possibly in our long-term care facilities as well.
Wisdom from elders
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Aug 16, 2016
I told residents that I was writing an article on advice from elders about how to live life and their responses were immediate and enthusiastic, as if they’d been waiting for someone to ask.
‘Just a picture of her butt’ — an analysis
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Feb 16, 2016
Wondering how an employee could possibly think posting a photo of a resident’s behind to social media would be a reasonable action to take, I contacted a psychologist and social media expert.
‘Honest’ placebos help without side-effects, expense
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Jan 19, 2016
Placebos could be a better friend than you realize in the universal quest to reduce the number of medications that elderly patients receive. Don’t believe me? Read on. (It won’t hurt.)
Growing Good
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Jan 05, 2016
In the wee hours of the night I recently discovered a Facebook post about a company founded by two brothers called Life is Good. It emerged from the standing request the founders’ mother had for...
Loneliness in LTC: Overcoming disability, creating connections
By
Eleanor Feldman Barbera, Ph.D.
Apr 14, 2015
Reducing loneliness among facility residents has numerous benefits — for residents and staff. So why aren’t we doing better at it? Here’s what you need to know.