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

5 min

Is it normal for nursing homes to smell like urine? What the odor really means

According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, unsanitary conditions, including pervasive odors, are a common sign of neglect. A persistent or strong odor of urine is **not** normal for nursing homes and should be considered a serious red flag for inadequate care or understaffing. While occasional accidents happen, a facility with effective hygiene protocols should not have a chronic, unpleasant odor.

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4 min

Where is the best medical care for seniors? Finding the Right Fit

According to the CDC, roughly one in four Americans over 65 reports having a hard time accessing healthcare, making the question of where is the best medical care for seniors a critical one for many families. There is no single best location, but rather a personalized solution based on an individual’s unique needs, health status, and preferences.

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3 min

What are the problems with care homes? A comprehensive guide

According to one report, nearly two-thirds of staff in care facilities admitted to some form of elder abuse within a year, highlighting a significant issue of mistreatment. Understanding what are the problems with care homes is crucial for anyone navigating this difficult decision.

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4 min

How to Assess Assisted Living Facilities for Quality Care and Comfort

According to a 2023 Genworth study, the median monthly cost for assisted living in the U.S. is over $5,350, making it a significant financial commitment. Before investing in this level of care, it is crucial to understand **how to assess assisted living facilities** thoroughly, focusing on quality of care, safety, and overall environment to ensure a supportive and respectful home for your loved one.

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5 min

What Does the Nursing Home Reform Act do?

Enacted as part of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987, the Nursing Home Reform Act addressed shocking studies that revealed widespread abuse and neglect in nursing facilities. This landmark federal law fundamentally redefined what does the Nursing Home Reform Act do by mandating comprehensive protections and minimum standards for millions of nursing home residents.

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6 min

Understanding What's the CNA ratio to residents?

According to federal data from April 2024, only 19% of nursing facilities currently meet the full set of new staffing minimums when fully phased in, highlighting a significant staffing challenge in senior care. Understanding what's the CNA ratio to residents is crucial for families seeking high-quality care.

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4 min

How many patients can a caregiver have? A guide to senior care ratios

According to industry data, the patient-to-caregiver ratio can vary dramatically, from 1:5 in specialized settings to over 1:20 in others. Navigating the question of **how many patients can a caregiver have** requires a detailed look into the many variables at play.

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5 min

Are assisted living homes non-profit? What to know about ownership models

According to sources like the Christian Living Communities, as much as 81% of assisted living communities in the United States are for-profit. This means that while non-profit options do exist, the vast majority of facilities you encounter will be operated with the primary goal of generating revenue for owners or shareholders.

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4 min

Understanding the Ideal Ratio: How Many Residents Should a Caregiver Have?

According to a 2021 study by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, staffing levels are a crucial determinant of quality in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Understanding how many residents should a caregiver have is a critical aspect of ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of older adults receiving care.

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5 min

What Are Some Issues With Senior Housing? Addressing Major Challenges

By 2030, all baby boomers will be 65 or older, intensifying the demand for senior housing options. However, families and older adults face many hurdles, raising questions about what are some issues with senior housing, including affordability, quality of care, and social factors.

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