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Hands-on training may help pediatric residents communicate better with families of medically complex children

A study published in Hospital Pediatrics found that targeted education on common medical devices can strengthen aspects of physician-family communication. Pediatric residents who received hands-on training with medical devices showed significant improvements in communication skills, including explaining care plans and encouraging quest...

SourceWake Forest University School of Medicine·JournalHospital Pediatrics·DateOct 22, 2026

For caregivers with cardiovascular conditions, poor sleep and emotional distress are linked to greater strain

A study by George Mason University researcher Kyeung Mi Oh found that caregivers' sleep, physical functioning, and emotional well-being are key factors associated with caregiving burden and psychological distress. The research highlights the importance of recognizing caregivers' health needs and providing tailored support to mitigate t...

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalJournal of Applied Gerontology·DateOct 19, 2026

When cancer turns critical, the patient isn't the only one suffering

A review of nine international studies found that 71% of caregivers experienced anxiety, 50% depression, and almost all struggled to care for themselves, while social isolation and poor sleep were common. Healthcare services can play a vital role in supporting caregivers by delivering coordinated care that includes them in follow-up care.

SourceFlinders University·JournalIntensive and Critical Care Nursing·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 19, 2026

New global survey shines a light on the patients who rely on plasma-derived medicines—and the donors who make them possible

A global survey of over 1,100 patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers found that 69% noticed a change in their health or someone they care for within a few months of plasma-derived medicine treatment, with 77% expressing gratitude to donors. The survey also revealed high confidence in plasma-derived medicines' safety and efficacy.

App-based support improves dementia caregivers’ wellbeing

A new app, WeCareAdvisor, has shown promise in improving the quality of life for dementia caregivers by providing a systematic approach to manage behavioral symptoms. Caregivers who used the app reported significant reductions in distress and behavioral symptoms, as well as improved well-being.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 20, 2026

Why your doctors keep leaving

A study by Texas A&M University finds that generational shifts are reshaping the healthcare workforce, with different needs and perspectives among five distinct generations of clinicians. This is complicated by staffing shortages, burnout and changing expectations about work-life balance and mental health.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalThe Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety·DateJul 31, 2026

Topline results from LiBBY trial show THC/CBD combination significantly reduces agitation for people with dementia at end of life

A Phase 2 clinical trial shows that a THC/CBD combination significantly reduces agitation in hospice-eligible people with dementia. The study, conducted across multiple US sites, achieved its primary and key secondary endpoints, demonstrating the efficacy of this treatment approach for end-of-life agitation.

A hospital that pays for itself? Sounds like a fairy tale

Researchers at Texas A&M University designed a fictional hospital to demonstrate the business case for investing in better design. The model shows that by incorporating evidence-based design strategies, hospitals can recover their additional construction costs within two years and achieve over $100 million in net financial gains over t...

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalBMJ Leader·DateJul 15, 2026

The digital therapy helping dementia carers

A digital therapy platform, iACT4CARERS, has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression in dementia carers after three and six months. The study, which involved almost 500 volunteers, found that carers using the platform had lower levels of anxiety and depression compared to those receiving usual care alone.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 11, 2026

Friend caregivers among older adults

A cross-sectional study of Medicare beneficiaries age 65 and older found friend caregivers to be an integral part of the caregiving network. They provide essential care without expecting compensation or reimbursement.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 2, 2026

Long-term study of COVID lockdown and family life shows unexpected, lasting effects on fatherhood

A new study by Lee Gettler of the University of Notre Dame found that COVID-19 lockdowns had a limited lasting effect on fathers' involvement in childcare, contrary to initial reports. The 15-year longitudinal data showed no significant change in fathering behaviors before and after the pandemic, with most dads resuming their pre-pande...

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalPLOS One·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 30, 2026

Digital reminiscence app could reduce grief and improve relationships between dementia patients and caregivers

A web tool called Living Memory Home for Dementia Care Pairs facilitates collaborative reminiscence therapy, reducing feelings of pre-death grief and improving relationship quality. The app promotes well-being and connection between dementia patients and caregivers, leading to better care outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 22, 2026

Under embargo: Families and friends speak out on electroconvulsive therapy’s silenced risks

A new study reveals that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can lead to significant negative impacts on standard of living, personal relationships, and even brain damage. Relatives and friends of ECT patients report long-term effects including memory loss, emotional blunting, and loss of independence.

SourceUniversity of East London·JournalPsychology and Psychotherapy Theory Research and Practice·DateApr 22, 2026

JMIR report: Can remote monitoring fix hospital overcrowding?

The article highlights how advances in remote monitoring and portable medical technology are dismantling traditional hospital walls. Hospital-at-Home programs offer a scalable solution to acute care delivery, resulting in lower costs, reduced readmission rates, and improved patient outcomes.

SourceJMIR Publications·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 21, 2026

Alliance study shows new promise against locally advanced lung cancer

A study by the Alliance Foundation Trials shows that combining immunotherapy and chemotherapy before surgery can help more patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer undergo complete cancer resection, improving their long-term health. The treatment also led to high rates of lymph node clearance and successful surgical re...

SourceAlliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology·JournalLung Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2026

Unions play key role in keeping direct care workers in the workforce

A UCLA-led study found that unionization leads to lower turnover rates among direct care workers, with significant benefits including improved care quality and reduced stress. Unionization applies to both for-profit and non-profit organizations, suggesting its potential to save the healthcare system $1.5 billion a year in turnover costs.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 8, 2026