A study released by the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) and funded by United Health Foundation, finds that family caregivers of veterans face a higher burden of care, both in intensity and duration, often supporting a spouse or partner over a longer period of time than typical family caregivers. These...
Author Archives: anthony
Medicare Open Enrollment – Let the Marketing Begin
Humana and Walmart have announced a new Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. The plan offers a national monthly premium of $14.80, which the companies claim is, according to the government, the lowest national plan premium in 2011 for a standalone Medicare Part D plan premium. äóìOne of the primary...
Not All Hospitals Are Just Getting By
The average American hospital barely breaks even. But some are enormous profit centers. Forbes’ first-ever survey of America’s most profitable hospitals reveals that some American hospitals make 25 cents or more for every $1 in patient revenue they take in.
Beet This – as in Beet Juice is God for You
Researchers at Wake Forest University’s Translational Science Center have found that beet juice can improve blood flow to the brain in older adults. When high-nitrate foods are consumed, bacteria in a person’s mouth turn nitrates into nitrites. Nitrites then help blood vessels open up, which blood flow. Blood flow to...
National Hospice Month – a Chance to Learn
Someone sent me the presidential proclamation for National Hospice Month. In part it reads: We recognize the dignity hospice care can provide to patients who need it most, and the professionals, volunteers, and family members who bring peace to individuals in their final days. Hospice care gives medical services, emotional...
Long-Term Care Insurance Deductibles Increase in ’11
Jesse Slome, executive director of the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance (AALTCI), issued a release yesterday that says The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced increased deductible levels for long-term care insurance policies that will be purchased in 2011. The deductible limits under Section 213(d)(10) for eligible long-term care...
AAHSA Launches Consumer Information Site
The American Association of Homes and Services has launched a new online consumer hub where consumers can learn about healthy aging, retirement planning, caregiving and other services they may need as theyäóîor someone they loveäóîages. The consumer section features profiles of seniors, up-to-date research and listervs. Providers can find resources...
Alzheimer’s Month Begins – As Detection Starts Earlier so Should Planning
As Alzheimer’s month begins, it is important to take stock. According to McKnight’s (citing a NYT op-ed by Justice O’Connor) the number of people who will develop the disease is expected to skyrocket over the next few years. Starting in January, 79 million baby boomers will turn 65 at a...
Nursing Home Rates Rising – Only Will Get Worse
According to the MetLife Mature Market Institute, the average nursing home rate is $229 per day, or $83,585 per year. The increase follows a 3.3% increase from 2008 to 2009. The highest average daily nursing home rates are in Alaska; lowest in Louisiana. Rates for a private room in an...
Diabetes Rates on Track to Triple
The number of U.S. adults with type 2 diabetes is on track to double or triple by 2050, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That’s one in three adults. æ Researchers attribute the rapid increase in diabetes to the fact that more people are being diagnosed with...