In our ongoing commitment to addressing the diverse needs of older adults in care settings, we are thrilled to share insights from our recent interview with optometrist Jason McCain. With years of experience in the field, Jason sheds light on the challenges and opportunities surrounding visual impairment among older adults.  Let’s delve into some key takeaways from our conversation. Please share your background (where you grew up, your education, and your experience). I was born and raised near Detroit, Michigan. I was always interested in biology from an early age and knew I would p ..read more

Nursing is a demanding and rewarding profession that requires dedication, empathy, and resilience. However, nurses working in nursing homes often face unique challenges that can lead to burnout—a serious issue described as an epidemic in the healthcare industry.  According to an article in ScienceDirect: “Burnout refers to a psychological syndrome characterized by emotional exhaustion (feelings of energy depletion), depersonalization (cynicism related to excessive workload), and reduced personal accomplishment (experience of inefficacy).”  Let’s take a better look at this challenging ..read more

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold and the air becomes crisper, fall brings unique beauty and challenges, especially for those working in the assisted living, nursing home, or senior living community sector. In the hustle and bustle of caring for residents during this busy season, it’s easy to forget about nurturing your own personal time and well-being. However, safeguarding your time is crucial to providing the best care possible for your residents. In this blog post, we’ll explore some strategies to help you protect your time and strike a healthy work-life balance during the ..read more

In this post, we’ll dive into some remarkable alternatives to traditional pet therapy for seniors, highlighting the diverse range of creatures that can bring smiles and comfort. Continue reading below.  As we age, maintaining our emotional well-being becomes increasingly important. It’s not uncommon for older adults to experience feelings of loneliness and isolation. This is especially true for senior citizens who reside in nursing homes or assisted living facilities. For these seniors, the sense of companionship and joy that animals bring can profoundly impact their overall quality of li ..read more

Biophilic Design: Designing Senior Living to Promote Well-Being You can bring the healing effects of nature inside your senior living community with biophilic design. Adding these elements can create positive effects that residents may otherwise be missing out on. Read below to find out why bringing natural elements indoor will benefit the seniors living in your facility.  When was the last time you took a walk in the woods? The sound of your footsteps on the path, the sunlight peeking through the trees, a deep breath in the fresh oxygen-rich air can calm our anxieties and help us to rela ..read more

In today’s rapidly evolving world of technology, one innovation is making waves in the realm of eldercare: virtual reality (VR). As nursing homes strive to provide holistic care for their residents, VR technology is emerging as a powerful tool to enhance well-being and quality of life among older adults. Similar to the Wii Bowling craze that hit nursing homes several years ago (and remains a strong component of many activity programs nationwide), VR can bring new entertainment and experiences to older adults in all settings. Benefits of using VR Technology in Nursing Homes Virtual reality tran ..read more

Holiday Decor in Nursing Homes: Creating a Festive and Inclusive Environment for Residents As the holiday season approaches, nursing home administrators play a crucial role in fostering a warm and festive atmosphere for residents. The holidays are a time for joy, connection, and celebration, and it’s essential to create an inclusive environment that caters to the diverse preferences of residents. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of a festive atmosphere in nursing homes, provide practical tips for safe and accessible decorations, discuss inclusive decor ideas, share success sto ..read more

Scams targeting older adults are increasing and becoming more complex. This is a topic we plan to post about every year since it is so important. At the end of this post, we have included a free downloadable training tool you can use to educate your staff. The more vigilant your team is, the better protected your residents will be against being scammed.   Older Adults Are a Target  The ever-advancing digital age has made life simpler for many of us. But with the myriad of benefits, there is a dark underbelly: scams. Especially disturbing is the increasing trend of scammers preying u ..read more

As the holiday season approaches, nursing home administrators are presented with a unique set of challenges. This season brings joy, hope, and cherished memories for many. However, for the elderly residents of nursing homes, it may also bring feelings of loneliness, stress, and sadness. To ensure that the holidays are a time of happiness and comfort for all residents, it’s crucial to prioritize mental health and address common challenges head-on. 1. Combatting Loneliness Loneliness can intensify during the holidays, especially for those without close family or friends. Studies have indicated u ..read more

Pain is an unwelcome companion for many older adults. Whether it’s a nagging ache in the back or a sharp pain in the joints, pain can significantly impede the quality of life for seniors. Understanding its causes, preventive measures, and available treatments is essential for improved well-being. In this blog post, we will discuss the primary causes of pain, how to prevent it, and treatments for it. We will also explore methods for nursing home staff to enhance their ability to recognize and effectively address pain among their residents. Continue reading to learn more. By the Numbers The Nat ..read more