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Articles related to focusing on healthy aging, prevention, mobility, cognition, nutrition, independence, and caregiving support.

5 min

Are nursing homes going to close?: Examining the Future of Long-Term Care

While nursing home closures have been an ongoing issue, especially exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, data shows that more than 820 nursing facilities closed across the U.S. between 2015 and 2024, despite a nationwide increase in the older population. This raises concerns about whether more nursing homes are going to close in the coming years.

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4 min

What are care plan oversight services provided to a nursing facility resident?

According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), formal care plan oversight (CPO) services are not billable for residents in nursing facilities under Medicare, a critical distinction for families navigating senior care. This oversight is typically provided as a component of services for home health or hospice patients, not for those in a skilled nursing facility.

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4 min

What is the Guide Program for Dementia Caregivers? A Comprehensive Look at the GUIDE Model

Launched by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in July 2024, the Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model aims to improve the quality of life for individuals living with dementia and reduce the strain on their unpaid caregivers. This article explains **what is the guide program for dementia caregivers**, detailing its key components, eligibility requirements, and the benefits it offers to those navigating the complexities of dementia care.

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3 min

Is Medicare's age changing to 67 in 2025?

As of early 2025, over 67 million Americans are enrolled in Medicare, making it one of the country's most vital health programs. A persistent question among many, especially those approaching retirement, is: **Is Medicare's age changing to 67 in 2025?** This definitive guide provides the most current and accurate information on eligibility.

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4 min

What is the Vulnerable Elderly Scale (VES-13)?

According to a 2007 study on geriatric assessment, older adults identified as vulnerable by the **Vulnerable Elderly Scale** (VES-13) had more than four times the risk of death or functional decline over a two-year period compared to those with low scores. The VES-13 is a quick, self-administered survey used to identify community-dwelling older persons at risk for health deterioration.

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4 min

At what age do surgeons stop operating? Examining the truth

Despite the belief in a mandatory retirement, a significant portion of the surgical workforce is over 55, and no federal rule dictates when they must stop. This brings to light the important question: at what age do surgeons stop operating? The answer is far more nuanced, focusing on objective performance rather than a fixed number.

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3 min

What's the reimbursement system for SNFs? A guide to PDPM and payment

Since 2019, the Medicare reimbursement system for Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) has fundamentally shifted from a volume-based model to one centered on individual patient needs. This change, known as the Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM), aims to improve payment accuracy and tailor compensation to the complexity of a resident's care, not just the quantity of services provided.

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6 min

What are the 5 types of restraints? Understanding the different forms

According to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia, certain restrictive practices, including restraints, are monitored to ensure the rights and freedom of movement of individuals are protected. A deep understanding of what are the 5 types of restraints is crucial for anyone involved in healthcare, aged care, or disability support to ensure safe and ethical practice. Restraints are a last resort, used only when less restrictive methods have failed to prevent harm to the individual or others.

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4 min

Is a bed rail a restrictive practice? A critical look at patient safety

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), hundreds of incidents, including deaths, involving bed rail entrapment were reported between 1985 and 2009. This statistic underscores the complexity and potential danger associated with these devices and raises the critical question: **Is a bed rail a restrictive practice?**

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