She spends her free time doing puzzles, and walking around outside, has cataracts and high blood pressure. She celebrated her most recent birthday with a special cake made by her loved ones and caregivers....
Alzheimer’s drug maker sends a different message in the courtroom
By
John O'Connor
May 08, 2015
It’s almost impossible to turn on the tube these days without seeing an ad from a drug company. The typical scenario goes something like this: Person with a disease or problem is all smiles, thanks...
Our government is a terrible thing — to hate (and a thank-you)
By
John O'Connor
Apr 17, 2015
Providers are finding their personal and professional relationships with the government tested these days. But before we all grab our torches and pitchforks, let’s take a deep breath.
Genetic testing opens can of worms for Alzheimer’s patients
By
Elizabeth Newman
Mar 25, 2015
Healthcare professionals tend to have a belief in facts, and as a corollary believe in conventional wisdom that knowledge is power. Of course, what people SAY they want to know and how they actually act...
Will residents ‘stick it to the man’ with their choice of provider?
By
Tim Mullaney
Dec 11, 2014
In the dawning age of mega-providers, smaller long-term care chains and independent owners might be inspired by the story of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.
Long-term care insurance: Time to yell ‘Run!’ yet?
By
James M. Berklan
Nov 12, 2014
There is a memorable scene in the movie “Forrest Gump” when Lt. Dan chews out the well-intentioned title soldier for saluting him while the enemy is likely watching. The implication is that...
Contradictory promises from politicians
Nov 10, 2014
Following the most expensive and perhaps ugliest campaign season in our nation’s history, we watched two leaders who can barely stand the sight of each other predict crimson and clover going forward.
For long-term operators, a growing list of ‘frenemies’
By
John O'Connor
Oct 06, 2014
Most of us are all too aware of our professional friends and enemies. But not so much when it comes to our “frenemies.” Given the many changes taking place in healthcare today, the frenemy...
The upside of a long-term care journal
By
Elizabeth Newman
Sep 11, 2014
I thought writing in a journal to recap my day would be more trouble than it’s worth. That was before I went on a two-week vacation halfway around the world. But you don’t have to travel that...
Some unsolicited advice to Genesis: Good luck with the new ‘owners’
By
John O'Connor
Aug 22, 2014
This week’s blockbuster deal has private equity-backed Genesis HealthCare combining with Skilled Healthcare Group.In some ways, these sorts of marriages seem all but inevitable. After all, in the...