A systematic review published in Topics in SCI Rehabilitation suggests that indwelling catheters do not increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) compared to intermittent catheterization. The review found that only three studies reported significantly higher UTI rates with indwelling catheters, but all three had critical flaws.
Pediatric patients with LEP face challenges in emergency rooms, but a CHOP study shows that implementing quality improvement measures can increase the use of medical interpreters and improve documentation of language needs. The research team introduced new processes to identify language needs and offer interpreters as needed, leading t...
A UTHealth Houston study found caregivers of people at high risk of CTE are more likely to seek information from social media than physicians. The study also showed that participants reported 77% of online CTE information is probably true, with league-sponsored websites and healthcare providers being the least credible sources.
People living with dementia are more likely to have cancer diagnosed at an advanced stage and receive less treatment, negatively affecting survival. Review authors provide pragmatic recommendations for clinicians treating cancer in patients with dementia.
A new smartphone application called FAST.AI uses machine learning algorithms to recognize facial asymmetry, arm weakness, and speech changes in people experiencing a stroke. The app's accuracy was validated through a study involving nearly 270 patients with acute stroke, showing promise as a tool for prompt individuals to seek care.
Researchers developed an automated autism screening test using EHR data from children under 1, achieving clinically meaningful accuracy by 30 days. The model improved over time, suggesting potential benefits when integrated with caregiver surveys for early autism screening.
Researchers found that continuous glucose monitors and wearable devices pose challenges for patients and caregivers, including issues with hardware, software, and device use. Nearly three-quarters of participants experienced low blood sugar levels, highlighting the need for improved technology to manage diabetes effectively.
The pandemic exacerbated workforce shortages, low wages, and increased consumer responsibility in self-directed care. Policies like the Appendix K guidelines showed potential to alleviate unmet care needs, but further flexibility is needed to support consumers and workers.
The Collaborative for Telehealth and Aging has published the first-ever guidelines for offering telehealth services to older patients. The principles provide general rules for behavior, while the guidelines offer specificity for each principle, aiming to achieve individual goals for programs and providers.
Research from the University of Houston suggests that digital technology can enhance learning in young children by leveraging mind-wandering moments. When toddlers exhibit attentiveness and persistence while playing educational apps on an iPad, it leads to positive creative problem-solving skills and improved learning outcomes.
A new study reveals that falls are nearly 50% among older Americans with dementia, emphasizing the importance of addressing environmental and health-related risk factors. Key findings highlight the need for tailored screening and prevention interventions specifically designed for this high-risk population.
A University of Cincinnati researcher is leading a study to examine the effectiveness of a stroke treatment for patients with a pre-stroke disability, which are often overlooked in clinical trials. The study, funded by PCORI, will enroll over 1,100 patients across the US and collect data on outcomes such as disability, function, and qu...
A recent study at the University of Helsinki found that singing-based group rehabilitation can increase communication and speech production in stroke survivors, while also reducing social isolation. The study's results suggest that this type of rehabilitation could be a valuable addition to existing aphasia treatment protocols.
A cross-cultural study found that Ugandan mothers have more relational attitudes toward parenting, while UK mothers focus on autonomy. Despite these differences, infant experiences vary across cultures.
A new study found that prioritizing part-time employees can significantly improve the consistency of care in long-term care facilities. By consistently assigning part-time workers and having flexible full-time workers, facilities can reduce the average number of different nursing assistants a resident interacts with by 20-30% each month.
A new Lancet Viewpoint provides recommendations for providers and parents to detect and intervene in adolescent substance use. The study highlights the challenges of detecting substances with 'invisible symptoms' and emphasizes the importance of open communication and well-validated screening tools.
A new study estimates that at least 2.5 million 'sandwich generation' caregivers are serving as primary caregivers for both older and younger family members. These women face higher rates of financial difficulty and emotional distress compared to their peers who only care for an older adult.
A recent study published in the Journal of American Geriatrics Society found that a tailored activity program (TAP) significantly improved behavioral symptoms in Black families compared to white families. The program, which provides activities tailored to interests and abilities, also reduced caregiver distress.
A WVU study found that children from non-traditional family structures, such as single-parent households and multi-generational families, face difficulties accessing healthcare. The research highlights the need for providers to be aware of the unique challenges faced by these families and to adapt their services accordingly.
A study aims to enhance accessibility and value of health information tools for older adults with both diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. The research focuses on developing a user-friendly technology to detect low blood sugar, which can cause dizziness, confusion, and even death.
Research by University of East Anglia reveals care home nurses were unprepared for the pandemic, impacting their mental health and wellbeing. The study suggests implementing a mental health and wellbeing strategy is crucial to promote recovery from trauma and moral distress.
Research finds that individuals with dementia who receive care from an interprofessional team are more likely to visit the emergency department than those cared for by a physician-only practice. However, this team-based approach does not appear to reduce hospitalization rates.
Research shows that family involvement in psychosis treatment can lead to improved patient outcomes when caregivers use motivational interviewing-based communication strategies. This study found significant improvements in caregiver wellbeing, self-efficacy, and reduced conflict, but no change in treatment adherence.
A study published in Blood Advances reveals that caregivers of patients undergoing a stem cell transplant who use approach-oriented coping strategies such as positive reframing and acceptance have fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression. These strategies can help caregivers fulfill their role while protecting their mental health.
Researchers from Kessler Foundation are enrolling participants in a national trial testing a breakthrough device for improving recovery after stroke. The EMAGINE Stroke Recovery Trial pairs therapeutic exercise with electromagnetic stimulation to enhance brain and spinal cord function.
Outreach messages via electronic health record patient portals increased well child care visit scheduling and COVID-19 vaccine receipt in a randomized clinical trial of 945 patients. This tool may help restore delayed well child care in populations affected by the pandemic.
The Vilcek-Gold Award honors immigrant healthcare professionals in the US who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to humanistic and community-centered care. The award includes a $10,000 cash prize, commemorative trophy, and presentation at the Association of American Medical Colleges' annual meeting.
A University of Colorado study reveals aggressive behavior towards caregivers is a significant issue in Parkinson's disease, with factors including grief, loss of motor symptoms, and cognitive fluctuations identified as contributing to the problem. The research also highlights the impact on caregivers' mental health and relationships.
Eczema affects 10-20% of Canadian infants, making it a common condition to manage. Optimally managing atopic dermatitis in infants is crucial, as it impacts the whole family.
A new poll finds that more than half of people over 50 have helped at least one person over 65 with various tasks, including health care needs, home repairs, and finances. The experience can be rewarding but also challenging, especially for those helping individuals with complex needs.
The new guidelines aim to improve the cat's emotional experience during veterinary visits. They provide practical tips on creating a more reassuring environment, such as minimizing visual stimulation and using synthetic feline pheromones. The guidance also emphasizes the importance of remaining 'cat-focused' during interactions.
A study of 1,199 US essential and frontline workers found that recent mRNA vaccination with 2 or 3 doses before infection with Delta or Omicron variants was associated with attenuated symptoms and viral load. Vaccination status also influenced duration of illness and medical care seeking.
A self-guided app, 'Nna le wena,' provides structured activities to encourage caregiver-child communication and can be implemented into daily routines. The study found modest progress in children's communication skills, with over half of caregivers reporting significant improvements.
Research shows that children learning to navigate complex social situations are often given mixed messages about honesty and dishonesty by their adult caregivers. The study found that adults judge blunt truth-tellers more harshly when they lie to be polite, but reward subtle truths that protect others.
Research at the 2022 American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference & Exhibition found disparities in pediatric household preparedness for wildfires, particularly among less educated caregivers. Households with children having breathing issues were more likely to be prepared for wildfires.
A new study found that caregivers, particularly women, experience higher odds of health-related vulnerabilities such as food insecurity and financial strain. Caregivers must balance their own lives with those of their dependents, finding ways to care for themselves while dedicating time to caring for loved ones.
A new study during the COVID-19 pandemic found associations between intimate partner violence and spanking among caregivers. Caregivers who used multiple discipline strategies had increased odds of using corporal punishment.
A study of 226 Alzheimer's family caregivers found that 61.5% experienced depressive symptoms at diagnosis, with 1 in 3 showing worsening symptoms over five years. The risk was not linked to disease severity or individual backgrounds.
A recent study led by Drexel University's College of Nursing and Health Professions highlights the importance of nutrition and physical activity for both cancer patients and their caregivers. The research found similarities in beliefs about physical activity and barriers faced by both groups, including fatigue and time constraints.
A home-based primary care intervention program by the Department of Veterans Affairs significantly improved health-related quality of life and satisfaction for patients and their caregivers. The study found that Team-Managed Home-Based Primary Care (TM/HBPC) improved HR-QoL scales, caregiver outcomes, and reduced hospital readmissions.
The study found that the VA home care model significantly improved health-related quality of life and caregiver satisfaction compared to private-sector home care. Terminally ill patients scored higher on several quality-of-life measures, while non-terminally ill patients showed significant increases in satisfaction with care.
A recent study from Ohio State University found that stress levels can weaken the immune system's response to pneumonia vaccinations. After six months, vaccinated individuals who were highly stressed showed a weaker immune response compared to those with lower stress levels.
A study found that family caregivers of dementia patients experience a decline in immune responses after vaccination, suggesting they may be more susceptible to illnesses like pneumonia and flu. Chronic stress is believed to play a role in this impairment.
A study found that caregivers' problem-solving skills and positive expectations have a modest but potential clinical importance in reducing asthma symptoms. Caregivers with superior problem-solving skills helped children wheeze for fewer hours, while positive expectations improved functioning ability.
A study of caregivers' goals for Alzheimer's treatment reveals that maintaining quality of life is more important than extending lifespan. Most caregivers are willing to accept risks to slow the disease and would prioritize benefits such as preserving memory, communication, and daily function over additional years of life.
A study found that the number of family members caring for chronically disabled parents or spouses decreased, but those who did were more likely to be primary caregivers. The Baby Boomer generation's lower fertility rate is expected to increase pressure on family care in the coming decades.
A new study found that an oral-solution form of Risperdal is just as effective as intramuscular injections in reducing symptoms of psychotic agitation. The oral solution may be a more acceptable alternative for both caregivers and patients, promoting patient choice and compliance.
A recent study found that physician recommendations and media messages significantly influenced caregivers' decisions to place infants on their backs for sleep. Between 1994 and 1998, the percentage of white infants sleeping on their backs increased from 27% to 58%, while black infant back sleep rates rose from 17% to 31%. The study su...
A recent study by the University of Alberta found that non-paid elderly caregivers in Canada are saving taxpayers over $5 billion each year. However, these caregivers often pay a significant personal cost, including reduced social connections, physical health issues, and financial struggles. To address this issue, researchers recommend...
Elderly caregiving spouses who report experiencing strain are at a 63% higher risk of death than noncaregivers. Caregivers with prevalent disease are particularly vulnerable to mortality, with a 33% risk of dying within four years.
A recent study found that caregivers of mentally ill individuals are at a high risk of physical illness, with the severity of symptoms predicting burden and infections. Social support played a crucial role in reducing caregiver burden and infections.
Researchers found that stressed caregivers caring for Alzheimer's patients have impaired immune function, including reduced lymphocyte production and elevated stress hormone levels. This vulnerability can lead to increased illness duration and severity.
A new model developed by psychologists at the University of Georgia can predict how caregivers will suffer from depression or resentment based on their past relationship with the spouse they care for. The research, supported by grants from the National Cancer Institute and the National Institute of Mental Health, may help family caregi...
A study comparing day care and non-day care groups found that families with access to day care reported higher well-being and lower stress levels. The program provided cost-efficient support, enabling caregivers to continue employment while caring for loved ones.