Common infections linked to reduced cognitive test scores for older adults
By
Alicia Lasek
Apr 23, 2023
Common infections, including with the herpes simplex virus, are associated with reduced performance on a test of global function, researchers from Johns Hopkins University report.
Mix-and-match booster shots a plus for long-term care, AHCA/NCAL’s chief doc says
By
Alicia Lasek
Oct 25, 2021
Adding the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines to the mix will “catapult” efforts to increase COVID-19 booster access for residents and staff, David Gifford, M.D., says.
CMS now offering cognitive, mood assessment training for SNF providers
By
Alicia Lasek
May 10, 2021
The training includes four virtual, on-demand courses that give providers an overview of key clinical considerations for performing these assessments in the nursing home setting, the agency announced.
Mask prioritization ‘upside-down’; eldercare workers should be No. 1 recipient: report
By
Alicia Lasek
Mar 15, 2021
Frontline staff may be exposed to as much or more cough and COVID-19 droplets than ICU workers performing intubations, according to some researchers and anesthesiologists.
Study: A brace tops medical mask modifications to block respiratory pathogens
By
Alicia Lasek
Dec 20, 2021
The addition of an elastic brace or double masking are highly successful methods for improving the performance of face masks against respiratory aerosols, according to a new mask modification study from...
FDA: Evusheld may be less effective against latest COVID variants
By
Alicia Lasek
Oct 05, 2022
Evusheld, a preventive COVID-19 antibody for high-risk patients, may lose efficacy in the face of newly emerging variants, the FDA has informed clinicians.
GAO report finds ‘deficiencies’ in HHS’s handling of PHEs
May 15, 2023
Over a decades’ time, these issues have affected the nation’s response not only to COVID-19, but to past public health emergencies including the H1N1 influenza pandemic and extreme weather events...
Long-term care staff warm up to vaccine with 94 percent increase in willingness
By
Alicia Lasek
Mar 24, 2021
The latest surveys show a major shift in LTC staff members’ willingness to receive a coronavirus shot, and that healthcare workers are the most trusted source of vaccine information nationally.
Diabetes drug turned weight loss med spurs cost-benefit concerns for docs
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 13, 2021
The high price tag and lack of coverage for high-performing anti-obesity drug Wegovy begs the question of what the benefits of weight loss are worth to insurers and patients.
Older adults stalled by stereotypes — even at doctor’s office, study finds
By
Alicia Lasek
Feb 22, 2021
Low expectations can have a powerful effect on how well older adults perform on cognitive and motor skills tests, according to a Georgia State University gerontologist.