So much has been written, proposed and discussed about improving care in skilled nursing and long-term care, but nothing really changes. In the April issue of McKnight’s, an article addressed President...
Volunteering opened my eyes to the plight of our LTC system
By
Colleen McConnaha
Dec 06, 2021
Several weeks ago, I began volunteering as a care assistant at a nursing home that is part of the system my husband works for. It has been a rewarding, eye-opening, and somewhat concerning experience that...
A caregiver named Sammy
By
Martie Moore
Jul 02, 2021
It is not an unusual story. A 90-year-old man suddenly is having trouble breathing, his heart is enlarged, and his kidneys are slowing down in their functioning. A care conference is called and the family,...
Antibiotic stewardship — embrace the change
By
Jacqueline Vance, RNC, CDONA/LTC
Feb 06, 2018
Antibiotic stewardship is a change you need to embrace. You can’t just say I prefer it the old way, give everyone an antibiotic who asks for one and that will be that. But I get it. You are willing...
Making moments count
By
Martie Moore
Dec 21, 2016
As a professional caregiver, you see, hear and experience the story of the lives before you, and not just the shell of an aging body. Your actions do not make the evening news, but they should.
Put your gait belt where your mouth is
By
Julie Thorson
Apr 30, 2015
A couple of weeks ago, I put my scrubs on, grabbed a gait belt and worked alongside daily caregivers. I was humbled.
Leave the cape at home to become a caregiving hero
By
Jacqueline Vance, RNC, CDONA/LTC
Apr 21, 2015
OK, let’s face it. We all have an inner superhero in us or we wouldn’t be in the business of serving. But sometimes we need to leave that cape at home.
Intervention: How eating and drinking can save your skin
By
Martie Moore
Jan 14, 2015
Graduating with a nursing degree in hand, I was ready to bring my new knowledge and skills to the bedside. Thirty years later, I am amazed at how much I still have to learn and apply to my practice. In...
When Father’s Day arrives in December
By
John O'Connor
Dec 08, 2014
I have enjoyed a life largely free of the misfortune that time and circumstance can bring. All things considered, it’s been a pretty good ride so far. But even the most fortunate among us does not...
Alzheimer’s caregiving: The new normal
By
Allan S. Vann, Ed.D
May 19, 2014
I dealt first with my wife’s Alzheimer’s as a 24/7 caregiver at home, and now as a part-time caregiver and full-time advocate since her placement in the dementia wing of an assisted living...