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...
Despite outsider-driven COVID outbreaks, providers face continued demand for risky visits
By
Kimberly Marselas
Alicia Lasek
Jan 07, 2022
Multiple providers have said that they are irritated that attempts to strengthen infection control measures are sometimes being undermined by facility visitors. “Nursing homes must be allowed to...
Communicating through a mask with elders: 3 things to remember
By
Alicia Lasek
Apr 13, 2020
Geriatric experts say a simple memory tool can help clinicians convey sincerity and meaning to elders and dementia patients – despite COVID-19 challenges.
COVID vaccine protection drops by 80 percent in 6 months among nursing home residents: study
By
Alicia Lasek
Sep 03, 2021
Vaccinated staff members had a similar six-month decrease in immunity levels, investigators say. The data may support recommendations for vaccine booster shots, they contend.
Treating rare blood clots related to J&J COVID vaccine following usage suspension: new guidance
By
Alicia Lasek
Apr 28, 2021
Advisers to the CDC have released new clinical guidance and education regarding a rare blood clotting condition reported after vaccination.
Tests conducted in a Chicago skilled nursing facility found that patients who harbor the candida auris fungus shed it, likely contaminating their surroundings.
Eli Lilly aims for dementia drug candidate’s approval in 2022; wants to ‘prioritize access’
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 04, 2021
The Alzheimer’s disease-modifying drug donanemab is on track to be considered for full FDA approval by 2022, its developer said.
Falls may be an Alzheimer’s precursor, study finds
By
Alicia Lasek
Oct 14, 2020
Early brain changes may be the culprit when an older person with no signs of cognitive decline has a fall, researchers say. Such falls tend to occur about five years before memory loss and confusion arise.
Feds wait for lowered vaccine efficacy to recommend COVID-19 booster shots
By
Alicia Lasek
Jul 22, 2021
COVID-19 vaccine booster shots will not be necessary until mRNA vaccines become less effective, federal health officials say. But immunocompromised Americans are potential near-term recipients, they told...
APIC urges LTC industry to boost infection control capabilities with full-time, certified staff
By
Alicia Lasek
Mar 09, 2022
With the lessons of the pandemic fresh in mind, now is the time for LTC administrators to commit to recruiting and training dedicated, on-site infection preventionists, experts say. Sources of federal...