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All posts tagged with “Post-Acute Care News | ALF News.”
Why more seniors are going broke in the last 5 years of life
07/29/25 at 03:00 AMWhy more seniors are going broke in the last 5 years of life SavingAdvice.com; by Riley Jones; 7/27/25 ... According to recent data, more seniors than ever are entering the last five years of life with little to no savings, and some are accumulating serious debt. Despite years of work, careful budgeting, and modest living, the final chapter of life is becoming one of the most financially devastating. ...
Heritage of Green Hills offers innovative palliative care program
07/24/25 at 03:00 AMHeritage of Green Hills offers innovative palliative care program Main Line Times & Suburban - Senior Living, Exton, PA; by MediaNews Group; 7/23/25 At The Heritage of Green Hills, a premier senior living community in Cumru Township, Berks County, residents enjoy more than a vibrant lifestyle — they also benefit from a forward-thinking approach to health and wellness that includes care through its unique Collaborative Outpatient Management for Palliative and Aging Support Services (COMPASS) program, which is provided in partnership with Seniority Healthcare. ... Through the COMPASS program, eligible residents — people living in the independent living neighborhood or the Care Center with two or more chronic conditions — receive:
Post-acute care faces labor shortage amid immigration scrutiny
07/24/25 at 03:00 AMPost-acute care faces labor shortage amid immigration scrutiny Modern Healthcare, Post-Acute Care; by Diane Eastabrook; 7/23/25 Nursing homes and home care operators are scrambling to find replacements for foreign-born workers no longer eligible to work in the U.S. due to changes in immigration policy. Providers in Boston, Atlanta and other cities with large populations of immigrants, and Haitians in particular, say the loss of foreign-born workers in an already tight job market is making it increasingly difficult to meet the growing demand for care — and will likely drive up care costs. Last month the Homeland Security Department began notifying more than 500,000 Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans that it terminated a Biden-era program that allowed them to live and work in the U.S. It said those who have not attained legal status to remain in the U.S. outside of the program must leave immediately. Despite court challenges, the federal government also aims to end another program in early September that grants temporary protected status to Haitians and Venezuelans who have lived in the U.S. for more than a decade. [Full access might require subscription.]
Video palliative care improves symptoms but not outcomes in rural hospitals, study reveals
07/17/25 at 03:00 AMVideo palliative care improves symptoms but not outcomes in rural hospitals, study reveals McKnights Long-Term Care News; by Donna Shryer; 7/15/25 Researchers from the University of Alabama at Birmingham recently studied whether video consultations could improve palliative care for patients age 55 and older in small hospitals lacking specialized end-of-life services. Participants had an average age of 73. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, found that culturally tailored video consultations — designed with community input to reflect patients’ cultural values and communication preferences — led to a clinically meaningful but not statistically significant reduction in symptom distress. ... [The] video consultations had little effect on hospital readmissions or emergency department visits. The research addressed a critical healthcare gap, as the study notes that only 70% of the Deep South has access to palliative care services, compared to 85-94% in other US regions. This disparity particularly affects rural communities where specialized end-of-life care is often unavailable.
9 dead, dozens hurt in fire at assisted-living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts: Officials
07/15/25 at 03:00 AM9 dead, dozens hurt in fire at assisted-living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts: Officials ABC News; by Kevin Shalvey and Emily Shapiro; 7/14/25 Nine people have been killed and dozens are hurt after a five-alarm fire tore through an assisted-living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, officials said. Firefighters, police and other responders descended on the scene of the Sunday night fire at the Gabriel House assisted-living facility, where they found multiple people "hanging out of the windows, screaming and begging to be rescued," Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon said. The front of the building was covered in heavy smoke and flames, Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn III said. "This was not a situation where teams arrived and people were able to get out easily -- all of these people needed assistance," Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey said. "Many were in wheelchairs, many were immobile, many had oxygen tanks." About 12 "non-ambulatory residents were physically carried out by our officers," according to Fall River police.
When a fall becomes a death sentence for nursing home residents
07/10/25 at 03:00 AMWhen a fall becomes a death sentence for nursing home residents Justice News Flash; by Harve J.; 7/8/25 For nursing home residents, a trip to the hospital can be far more than a temporary setback it often marks the beginning of the end. According to data reviewed in a national nursing home longevity study by Gruber Law Offices, nearly 30% of older adults die within a month of hospital discharge. These figures suggest that transitions in care, rather than stabilizing vulnerable patients, may be accelerating their decline. ... Each year, nursing homes report between 100 and 200 falls, with the average resident experiencing 2.6 falls. These aren’t isolated accidents they’re indicators of systemic risk. Many residents already face mobility challenges, and understaffing makes close monitoring difficult. The result is a cycle: a fall leads to hospitalization, hospitalization increases frailty, and frailty increases the chance of further injury or death.
St. Joseph’s Center of Trumbull to permanently close Aug. 9
07/01/25 at 03:00 AMSt. Joseph’s Center of Trumbull to permanently close Aug. 9 Westfair Business Journal, Trumbaull, CT; by Gary Larkin; 6/30/25The Town of Trumbull and the state Department of Labor (DOL) have reported they are trying to help the 179 employees laid off by St. Joseph’s Center after its parent company [Genesis Healthcare] announced it was closing the nursing home on Aug. 9. ... St. Joseph’s Center has been serving Trumbull for more than 50 years with an array of services such as: independent living, short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, and hospice services.
Wisconsin author discusses her mother’s aging, dying in the American health care system: The long-term care system failed both her and her mother, she writes
07/01/25 at 02:00 AMWisconsin author discusses her mother’s aging, dying in the American health care system: The long-term care system failed both her and her mother, she writes Wisconsin Public Radio; by Colleen Leahy; 6/27/25At age 99, Judy Karofsky’s mother was kicked out of her Wisconsin hospice facility. Within 48 hours of that decision, Karofsky became her mother’s default nurse. “I had to find a wheelchair for her. I had to keep track of her meds. I had to buy all the bandages and supplies that she would [need],” Karofsky told WPR’s “Wisconsin Today.” Karofsky is the author of “Diselderly Conduct: The Flawed Business of Assisted Living and Hospice.” In it, she chronicles nightmare scenarios as her mother aged and died in the American healthcare system: making her way through independent living, six different assisted living facilities, memory care, skilled nursing and hospice.
Short notice, long love: A hospice wedding full of heart
06/19/25 at 03:00 AMShort notice, long love: A hospice wedding full of heart Citrus County Chronicle, Inverness, FL; by Mike Arnold; 6/16/25 Brendan Malone and Vanessa Rodriguez made a snap decision that would change their lives – and touch the hearts of everyone around them. The couple were driving up from Estero in the early afternoon of June 5 to visit Malone’s father, Michael “Big Mike” Malone, who had recently moved into Citrus Health and Rehab in Inverness and was also receiving care from Vitas Hospice. [Already engaged,] ... they made the decision to get married the next morning, at Citrus Health and Rehab. There were no tuxedo fittings, no cake tastings, no invitations sent. There was no time. There were flowers, guests, toasts, bubbles – and love. And “Big Mike” had a front row seat. Brendan Malone didn’t want to get married without the man who had been his biggest supporter by his side. ... What followed was a whirlwind of compassion, planning, and action from the staff at the nursing facility and the local hospice team. Within hours, they coordinated decorations, arranged courtyard seating, and made sure Michael could be present in his wheelchair for the ceremony.
Families demand end to Medicare waiting period for early-onset Alzheimer’s patients
06/17/25 at 03:20 AMFamilies demand end to Medicare waiting period for early-onset Alzheimer’s patients Washington Examiner; by Elaine Mallon; 6/15/25 Jason Raubach was diagnosed at 50 years old with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease — a diagnosis that affects nearly 200,000 Americans. He received the diagnosis in 2018, completely upending life for his family. His youngest child was just a freshman in high school. ... Shortly before receiving an official diagnosis, Jason Raubach lost his job, having to move his family onto a consolidated omnibus budget reconciliation act health plan, or COBRA plan, which allows a person to keep their health insurance even after losing their job. “It wasn’t cheap,” Elizabeth Raubach said.However, once diagnosed, Jason Raubach had to wait two and a half years before he could receive coverage under Medicare, health insurance for those 65 years and older or those with qualifying disabilities. But Elizabeth Raubach, along with dozens of other caretakers for people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, called on Congress in a letter to eliminate the 29-month waiting period required for those under the age of 65 to receive coverage under Medicare. ...
‘It’s going to be the expectation’: Alternative care models reshape home-based care
06/12/25 at 03:00 AM‘It’s going to be the expectation’: Alternative care models reshape home-based care Home Health Care News - Hospital at Home; by Joyce Famakinwa; 6/10/25 At-home care providers are looking to the future. This means seriously investing in alternative home-based care models, such as hospital-at-home and Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). DispatchHealth, Contessa Health and Alivia Care are some of the organizations that have jumped headfirst into alternative home-based care models, enabling the creation of more comprehensive care delivery models. While alternative care models come with inherent challenges, including a complex regulatory environment and higher capital investments, these models are set to become an expectation for home-based care providers.
The Roaring ‘20s: Hospice of the Valley hosts senior prom
06/04/25 at 03:00 AMThe Roaring ‘20s: Hospice of the Valley hosts senior prom Arcadia News, Phoenix, AZ; by Mallory Gleich; 6/1/25 At the Dementia Care and Education Campus in Arcadia, the spirit of the Roaring ’20s came to life as Hospice of the Valleyhosted its second annual senior prom. With pearls, feathers, vintage flair, and a whole lot of heart, this unforgettable evening was more than just a dance, it was a joyful celebration of life, connection, and music. Around 80 guests – a mix of Adult Day Club members, assisted living residents, spouses, family members, staff, and volunteers – attended the soiree. From the start, the event buzzed with anticipation and excitement. For many, this was a chance to relive a moment they had missed, or rewrite one that had fallen short in their youth.
10 Signs death is near for dementia patients
06/04/25 at 03:00 AM10 Signs death is near for dementia patients The Healthy; by Dr. Patricia Varacollo, DO; 6/2/25 For families and caregivers, recognizing the final stages of dementia can be difficult, but understanding the signs can help ensure comfort and dignity in a loved one's last days. Dr. Koncilja highlights these key indicators that may suggest the end of life is near:
A ‘cloak of comfort’: an integrated approach to palliative care for cancer patients
05/30/25 at 03:00 AMA ‘cloak of comfort’: an integrated approach to palliative care for cancer patients Sinai Health; 5/26/25 At Mount Sinai Hospital, palliative care is fully integrated into cancer care, providing comprehensive, person-centered support for those with advanced illness. Palliative care, derived from the Latin pallium meaning “cloak,” offers comfort and support to individuals with serious illnesses. Often misunderstood as solely end-of-life care, it actually provides relief at any stage of a life-threatening illness and can be provided in tandem with cancer treatment. This holistic approach addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, aiming to improve quality of life for both patients and their families. In fact, early integration of palliative care can enhance symptom management, extend life and offer greater support to caregivers. Patients can receive care at Mount Sinai Hospital’s Cancer Care Clinic, at home through the Temmy Latner Centre’s home palliative care program, and in the palliative care unit at Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital.
Assisted living facility where woman was fatally beaten operated out of 'pure greed:' Suit
05/29/25 at 03:00 AMAssisted living facility where woman was fatally beaten operated out of 'pure greed:' Suit Delaware New Journal; by Isabel Hughes; 5/20/25 The family of an 83-year-old woman who was fatally beaten by another resident at The Summit assisted living in North Star has accused the facility and its parent company of "pure greed," claiming in a recently filed lawsuit that the previously violent assailant was not removed from the facility because he brought in nearly $400,000 for the company. The family of Shyuan Hsia who was attacked and left to suffer in her room for hours on the night of Aug. 5, 2024 filed the 84-page suit in New Castle County Superior Court in late April. ... Discovery Senior Living, the lawsuit says, "recklessly failed to remove" him, "because if they did so, they stood to lose approximately $370,000 in revenue." That number was derived from:
Home care workers could be a secret to savings, value-based care
05/28/25 at 02:00 AMHome care workers could be a secret to savings, value-based care Modern Healthcare; by Diane Eastabrook; 5/20/25 ... About 3.9 million workers provide personal care services, such as bathing, toileting, grooming and meal preparation to patients in their homes, according to the Labor Department. While those workers don’t typically provide medical services, they often spend more time with patients than healthcare providers and can offer valuable insight into patients' conditions, said Kristen Wheeler, executive director of home care for the National Alliance for Care at Home. “They will be the first to recognize when something has changed. These caregivers can report back and are a critical part of the healthcare team," Wheeler said. ... That can lead to faster — and less costly — care. The Labor Department estimates the U.S. will need another 800,000 home care workers over the next decade as the population ages.
You might live to be 100. Are you ready?
05/21/25 at 03:00 AMYou might live to be 100. Are you ready? The Guardian; by Andrew J. Scott; 5/15/25 Ethel Caterham, at the age of 115 years, is said to be the oldest person alive. She offers the sage life advice to “say yes to every opportunity because you never know what it will lead to. Have a positive mental attitude and have everything in moderation.” When she was born in 1909, the average life expectancy of a British female was 52 years – becoming a centenarian was a remote prospect. ... Today, according to the United Nations, centenarians are the fastest growing age group. By 1950, there were an estimated 14,000 whilst today there are nearly 750,000, projected to reach nearly 4 million by 2054. ... Today, there is too large a gap between average lifespan and healthspan. The number of years we are likely to live has increased more than the number of years we are likely to remain healthy. Reducing this gap is critical for seizing the advantages of longer lives.
Hospice visits and perceived hospice quality among Assisted Living residents
05/21/25 at 03:00 AMHospice visits and perceived hospice quality among Assisted Living residents Journal of the American Geriatrics Society; by Wenhan Guo, Shubing Cai, Yue Li, Brian E. McGarry, Thomas V. Caprio, Helena Temkin-Greener; 5/19/25 Background: Hospice services are widely used by assisted living residents at the end of life, yet concerns exist about the adequacy and quality of hospice care in this setting. Conclusions: Higher frequency of hospice staff visits was associated with better perceived hospice quality. Policies supporting greater hospice staff engagement, including nonclinical staff, may enhance end-of-life care experiences for assisted living residents.
A dozen seniors at risk of being evicted from assisted living facilities in Stanislaus County
05/19/25 at 03:00 AMA dozen seniors at risk of being evicted from assisted living facilities in Stanislaus County NBC KCRA-3, Newman, CA; by Andres Valle; 5/15/25 The closure of two senior residential care facilities in Stanislaus County has left over a dozen older residents, including hospice patients, scrambling to find new homes with just days' notice. This decision comes after the passing of Kelsy Ramos, the licensee of Golden Age Living facilities in Turlock and Newman. Ramos, a Turlock native reported missing earlier this month, was found dead last Monday in Selma. The California Department of Social Services ordered the closure with no licensed manager in place, citing the absence of regulatory oversight.
‘Surprisingly hopeful’ story emerges about LGBTQ+ rights, efforts in senior living
05/15/25 at 03:00 AM‘Surprisingly hopeful’ story emerges about LGBTQ+ rights, efforts in senior living McKnights Senior Living; by Kimberly Bonvissuto; 5/14/25 ... The Human Rights Campaign Foundation and LGBTQ+ elder advocacy group SAGE on Tuesday released its 2025 Long-Term Care Equality Index, a national benchmarking tool focused on LGBTQ+ inclusion in senior living and care. The key takeaway, the organizations said, is the “defiant progress” occurring despite political attacks against inclusion efforts. As cuts to the Medicaid program — which many LGBTQ+ older adults rely on — come more into focus, participation in the latest survey jumped 37% from the 2023 report, with 274 long-term care settings across 33 states expressing commitment to inclusive care for more than 29,000 residents and 18,000 staff members. Participants included independent living, assisted living, memory care, continuing care retirement / life plan and affordable housing communities, as well as skilled nursing facilities and hospice settings.
Roughly 40 percent of nurses plan to leave profession within 5 years, survey finds
05/15/25 at 02:00 AMRoughly 40 percent of nurses plan to leave profession within 5 years, survey finds McKnights Home Care; by Adam Healy; 5/13/25 The nursing workforce today is more stable than it was during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, but a significant share of nurses still plan to leave the profession behind in the next five years, according to the 2024 National Nursing Workforce Survey published in the Journal of Nursing Regulation. ... Approximately 40% of RNs, LPNs and LVNs surveyed said that they planned to leave nursing sometime in the next five years. In 2022, roughly 26% of nurses said the same. The most common reasons nurses cited for wanting to leave their jobs included retirement, stress or burnout, workloads and pressures caused by understaffing, the report noted.
Hidden at Home: Alarming questions, few state investigations of NJ group home deaths
05/07/25 at 03:00 AMHidden at Home: Alarming questions, few state investigations of NJ group home deaths app., North Jersey.com, part of the USA Today Network; by Ashley Balcerzak and Jean Rimbach; 5/3/25 Fourteen. That’s how many times Michael Lombardi tried to dial 911 in the hours before he was found dead at age 39 in a state-licensed group home for adults with disabilities. ... Key Points:
How a Butler University and Community Health Network partnership helped save 420 lives and $4.3 million
05/05/25 at 03:00 AMHow a Butler University and Community Health Network partnership helped save 420 lives and $4.3 million Butler Stories, Indianapolis, IN; by Katie Palmer Wharton; 4/30/25 For healthcare professionals, data is more than just numbers—it is the foundation of better patient care, smarter decisions, and more efficient hospitals. But for many, data can feel overwhelming and difficult to use effectively. That’s why Butler University’s Office of Continuing and Professional Education teamed up with Community Health Network to create a hands-on professional development course that demystifies data and equips healthcare workers with practical analytics skills. Since launching in spring 2022, the program has empowered 185 Community Health Network professionals to break down data barriers, make informed decisions, and drive meaningful change in their organization. ... Armed with new data skills, Community Health Network employees built a dashboard to streamline the process. The results were nothing short of remarkable:
Patient, provider, and health system determinants of hospice Length of Stay
05/02/25 at 03:00 AMPatient, provider, and health system determinants of hospice Length of Stay Palliative Medicine Reports; by Eliza Thompson, Daniel Sanchez Pellecer, Gregory J Hanson, Shealeigh A Inselman, Jenn M Manggaard, Kevin J Whitford, Jacob J Strand, Rozalina G McCoy; 4/3/25Background: Benefits of hospice care, such as improvement in quality of life and reduced costs, depend on duration of enrollment in hospice services, making timely hospice referral essential. ... Conclusion: Based on a review of hospice referral patterns, the integration of hospice care into subspecialty practices, long-term care facilities, and advanced practice education could be an effective strategy to improve hospice LOS.
Understanding Conservatory Care Services: A comprehensive overview
04/29/25 at 03:00 AMUnderstanding Conservatory Care Services: A comprehensive overview Articlescad.com; by Jonassen Randall; 4/27/25 As the population ages and healthcare requires evolve, conservatory care services have become a crucial part of the continuum of care for numerous individuals. Unlike standard medical treatment environments, conservatory care services focus on supporting people with persistent conditions or impairments, providing a holistic technique that promotes self-respect and quality of life. This short article will explore what conservatory care services entail, who can benefit from these services, and the various kinds they can take.