How can listening to opera possibly improve the cognitive function of dementia patients? Notice I didn’t ask whether. According to McKnight’s, Chinese researchers are proving the point, and who am...
Things I Think: Playing favorites
By
Gary Tetz
Oct 18, 2019
Over the years, I’ve had my favorite senior care residents. Many of them. Anyone who works in this profession probably has some too. I’m particularly drawn to those who are funny, optimistic,...
Things I Think: A cow in every lobby
By
Gary Tetz
Sep 06, 2019
Every nursing home administrator probably has a favorite story of a resident whose state of health and happiness was transformed by experiencing the unconditional love of an animal. It’s universal, like...
Things I Think: Good, Bad news
By
Gary Tetz
Aug 02, 2019
Bad news, people. Alzheimer’s disease can be prevented.
Molalla on her mind
By
Gary Tetz
Sep 05, 2018
You wouldn’t have seen any flashing lights or scurrying EMTs, but it was still a major crisis. The nursing home resident was completely out of his favorite pickles, and not just any variety would...
The inevitable is here
By
Gary Tetz
Aug 09, 2018
Staffing is inadequate and erratic at many of the nation’s nursing homes?
Reader poll: What’s the one regulation or rule you dislike the most?
Jul 09, 2018
“Shared food. We can say you can bring it in, but then they [officials] say it has to be store bought. You can’t accept food from other homes. It has to be segregated from any other food. It’s...
Things I think: Surviving the treadmill
By
Gary Tetz
Mar 08, 2018
Exercise can be hazardous to your health. Like antipsychotics, its pursuit should include a black box warning that atypical, or even typical, fitness attempts carry increased risk of injury and embarrassment....
Reader poll: What are you known for in your workplace?
Mar 08, 2018
“I am known for letting the creative side of my brain take the driver’s seat and see what magic comes. My colleagues might say that I’m always talking about the stories and accomplishments...
A day at the opera?
By
Gary Tetz
May 06, 2017
We all have guilty pleasures — things we secretly enjoy but don’t have the courage to admit to long-term care colleagues at stand-up.