When it comes to measuring how well a long-term care facility is doing, we all know the usual benchmarks: revenues, profits and census levels.
Keeping your friends close, and the media closer
By
John O'Connor
Jul 30, 2018
After nearly three decades of watching this sector, I’m still astounded by two bizarre aspects of general media coverage.
Facilities approach 15% goal for antipsychotics reduction
By
John O'Connor
Oct 01, 2013
For decades, many providers have viewed antipsychotic drugs as a necessary evil for treating residents with dementia. But increasingly, these medications are just being seen as evil. So it’s hardly...
Sensitivity training
By
John O'Connor
Apr 07, 2008
The story of Tithonus serves as one of Greek mythology’s more cautionary tales. According to legend, he was a handsome young man who sought immortal life. As they say, be careful what you ask for. While...
Skilled care reprimands: Cheap shots or fair criticism?
By
John O'Connor
Apr 22, 2019
For what seems like the umpteenth time, another media outlet has taken aim at the skilled care sector.
Plan of correction can be anything but, as this provider learns the hard way
By
John O'Connor
Apr 28, 2014
Justice has an odd way of showing itself if you’re a nursing facility that disagrees with a deficiency citation but decides to work with inspectors to clear your name. You’re not going to believe...
McKnight’s unveils new Web site
By
John O'Connor
Jan 24, 2008
If staying abreast of the top developments in eldercare is a priority,you’ve come to the right place. Welcome to www.mcknights.com, where an unmatched compendium of news, information and perspective...
Are your drivers connected, or waiting to get even?
By
John O'Connor
Dec 23, 2013
An old college friend spent one summer delivering pizzas. For reasons that will soon be obvious, I won’t reveal his name.
The disease that keeps on taking
By
John O'Connor
Aug 06, 2012
There is no way to tally the full cost of Alzheimer’s disease, a life robbing condition that now claims more than 5 million victims nationwide. But what can be put on a ledger sheet is sobering....
And now, some important reminders from a 94-year-old
By
John O'Connor
Jan 24, 2014
Conventional wisdom can be a reassuring thing. Especially when it reinforces our suspicions. But it has a fatal flaw: Sometimes it can be flat-out wrong. Consider 94-year-old Olga Kotelko.