A U-M study links increased physical independence, gut microbiome disrupting antibiotics, and hand contamination to vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) environmental contamination in nursing homes. The study suggests that reducing antibiotic use and improving hand hygiene could control VRE spread.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Lancet Healthy Longevity·DateNov 10, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.
Research by University of Colorado geriatrician Kenneth Lam found that the average person moving into a nursing home is already severely disabled and receiving 27 hours of care per week. Assisted living residents are less likely to be severely disabled but still receive significant support.
SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateNov 8, 2023
People with dementia experience a rapid rise in unpaid and paid home care, and major erosion of net worth. Family members face significant demands, providing an average of 45 hours of care per month.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 16, 2023
Researchers found that using chlorhexidine bathing routine and an over-the-counter antiseptic to clean the nose can significantly reduce serious infections and antibiotic-resistant organisms in nursing homes. The study involved nearly 14,000 residents at 28 California nursing homes and showed a substantial reduction in hospital transfe...
SourceThe Lundquist Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateOct 10, 2023
A new NIH grant will survey healthcare workers caring for people with dementia, gathering data to inform better care and policy. The study aims to understand workforce shortages, payment policies, and regulation, with a focus on direct care workers often overlooked.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateOct 3, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
A new study by George Washington University found that unionization increases employer compliance with OSHA's reporting requirements, leading to safer nursing homes. Non-unionized nursing homes are less likely to report workplace injuries and illnesses, making it difficult for policymakers to track and prevent these incidents.
SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 5, 2023
A large population study found that unhealthy lifestyles between ages of 60 and 64 are associated with a doubling in the risk of nursing home admission. Physical inactivity, smoking, poor diet, and sleep disorders were linked to an increased risk of care, particularly among 60-64 year olds.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 2023
A new study by MU researcher Roy Thompson found that immigrant nurses in long-term care facilities often have more 'human capital' than their American-born counterparts, including language skills and additional certifications. This diversity can improve patient health outcomes and create a more equitable workforce.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Nursing Regulation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 1, 2023
A new study found that federal government's Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans improved staffing levels at nursing homes during the pandemic. Loans reached understaffed facilities, increasing staff hours among certified nursing assistants and licensed practical nurses.
SourceNew York University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 27, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
A Cochrane review reveals that organizational interventions can reduce the use of physical restraints in care home residents by 14%, without increasing falls or fall-related injuries. Supportive managers play a crucial role in implementing these interventions, which improve knowledge, skills, and strategies among frontline staff.
SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 27, 2023
A multidisciplinary team will investigate six antibiotic-resistant organisms, including MRSA and VRE, in 50 nursing homes using computer simulation models and scientific methods. The research aims to elucidate detection methods, spread drivers, and risk factors for MDROs, informing infection prevention policies.
SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·DateJul 25, 2023
A nationwide study of 11,000 older adults found that social isolation significantly increased the risk of skilled nursing facility stays and nursing home placement over two years. The study suggests that enhancing social contact at home or in community settings may help delay or deter nursing home entry.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJul 24, 2023
A new study found that COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduced dementia-related deaths in long-term care and nursing homes, with a 77% decrease in the second year. However, deaths among those living at home did not decline as much, with only a 16% reduction.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateJul 17, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.
New research reveals low use of monoclonal antibodies and oral antiviral drugs in US nursing homes, despite high risk of resident populations. The study analyzed data from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention National Healthcare Safety Network during the COVID-19 pandemic.
SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateJul 14, 2023
Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed a photonic radar system that can accurately detect pauses in breathing patterns remotely. The system has been tested on cane toads and simulated human breathing devices, demonstrating its potential for non-invasive vital sign monitoring in clinical environments.
SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 29, 2023
A recent study found that elderly patients treated in local intermediate care units have lower mortality rates and fewer hospital readmissions. The research suggests that Norway's healthcare system has improved with the introduction of these units, providing better integrated services adapted to individual users.
SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeCase study·DateJun 22, 2023
A novel nurse-driven virtual care model has been developed to support long-term nursing home residents. The model, based on an existing in-person care model, aims to enhance resident care by leveraging nurses' expertise and access to electronic medical records.
SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalGerontology and Geriatric Medicine·DateJun 20, 2023
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
A recent study found that nursing homes serving Black residents have higher rates of hospitalizations and emergency department visits. The researchers attributed this to lower ratios of registered nurses and certified nursing assistants, as well as other structural characteristics.
SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 14, 2023
A UC Irvine-led study found that nursing home residents with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias receive better care when they make up the majority of the population. However, most facilities accommodate a diverse range of residents, highlighting the need for enhanced staff training.
SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJun 6, 2023
A quality improvement study found widespread underreporting of major injury falls and pressure ulcers in nursing homes. The study suggests that alternative approaches to measuring quality are needed to address these disparities.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 23, 2023
A recent $800,000 grant from the Missouri Department of Economic Development will train 300 MU students as part-time nurse assistants at MU Health Care. This three-year initiative will create a paid opportunity for nearly 100 MU students each year to earn work experience and reduce the need for student loans.
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
A new study found that vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe COVID-19 illness among nursing home residents aged 85 and older. The study, which examined data from 23,172 fully vaccinated residents, showed that just 5% developed a breakthrough infection, with less than 10% requiring hospitalization or dying within 30 days.
SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·DateApr 3, 2023
A new study found that frequent COVID surveillance testing protected nursing home residents by detecting infected staff earlier, disrupting transmission chains. The research showed that high testing frequency facilities had clinically meaningful reductions in resident cases and deaths, particularly before vaccine availability.
SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 22, 2023
A University of Gothenburg study reveals that dementia is the dominant risk factor for COVID-19 infection and mortality among residents of Swedish nursing homes. Early-onset dementia was found to be the strongest association with increased mortality rates, particularly in the 65–75 age group.
SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 8, 2023
Researchers developed models to estimate individuals' risk of fall-related injuries in nursing homes, achieving good discrimination and excellent calibration. The models can be used by clinicians to target preventive strategies and accurately determine patient risk.
SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 8, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
Researchers identified four distinct long-term pain trajectories in nursing home residents, shedding light on risk factors associated with persistent pain. The study highlights the need to improve pain assessment and evaluation, particularly among vulnerable populations like those with Alzheimer's disease.
SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 27, 2023
A study finds that aggressive end-of-life care remains common among older adults with metastatic cancer, particularly in nursing home residents. Multilevel interventions targeting hospital admissions and in-hospital death are crucial to reducing its prevalence.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 22, 2023
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine report outlines bold and actionable recommendations to transform nursing home care delivery and environment. The Moving Forward Nursing Home Quality Coalition has been established to take action on these issues and improve nursing home quality nationwide.
SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateFeb 8, 2023
A study by Brown University researchers found that night shift nursing home staff had significantly lower rates of COVID-19 testing and primary vaccination compared to day shift staff. The study highlights the importance of considering work shifts in designing workplace health interventions.
SourceBrown University·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 7, 2023
A new study published in Evolution, Medicine, and Public Health found that proper hand hygiene in clinical work can reduce the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The researchers developed a mathematical model to predict how good or poor hygiene affects resistance evolution, and tested it against data from 691 long-term care facil...
SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalEvolution Medicine and Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 17, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A US study of 15,000 nursing homes found that pre-Omicron vaccination boosts reduced COVID-19 cases and deaths among residents and staff. Newer variants rendered original vaccine less effective.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 29, 2022
New research reveals that California nursing homes exposed to wildfire risks have poorer compliance with emergency preparedness standards. The study found that 83.9% of these facilities had at least one deficiency compared to 76.9% of unexposed ones.
SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateDec 21, 2022
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.
SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalManufacturing and Service Operations Management·DateDec 20, 2022
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
Administration of vaccine boosters to nursing home residents significantly reduces SARS-CoV-2 infections and hospitalizations. The study suggests that booster vaccination may play a crucial role in preventing COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality among vulnerable populations.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 7, 2022
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.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 2022
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that antiepileptic prescribing to US nursing home residents with Alzheimer's Disease and dementia increased between 2015 and 2019. In contrast, antipsychotic and opioid prescribing rates declined during this period
SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateNov 9, 2022
Researchers found significant regional differences in LTC spending, driven by factors such as population demographics and disability classification. Preventive measures may help reduce costs by reducing the need for long-term care.
SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBMC Public Health·DateOct 5, 2022
A $1 million NIH grant will help MU researchers analyze the effectiveness of a HIPAA-secure text messaging platform in nursing homes. The study aims to improve quality of care and prevent costly hospital transfers by speeding up decision-making.
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
Two new studies published in NEJM Catalyst demonstrate the remarkable effectiveness of telemedicine in addressing access barriers and improving health outcomes. The research highlights the benefits of telemedicine for patients with transportation challenges, mental health services, and overall quality of care.
SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNEJM Catalyst·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 2022
Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels remained high for at least 6 months after vaccination, providing long-term protection against subsequent infection. The study involved 2,100 West Virginia nursing home residents and staff who received COVID-19 vaccination.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 13, 2022
A study published in JAMA Health Forum found that COVID vaccine mandates for nursing home staff led to increased vaccination rates, with larger effects in Republican-leaning counties. The mandates did not significantly contribute to reported staffing shortages.
SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateAug 22, 2022
Researchers at the University of Chicago found that Medicare residents in US nursing homes report only 59.7% of pressure ulcers, with disparities affecting Black and Hispanic residents, who experience more severe stage 4 ulcers.
SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalMedical Care·DateAug 10, 2022
Research reveals that nursing homes in disadvantaged neighborhoods have lower clinical staff hours compared to those in more well-off areas. This disparity is particularly pronounced for registered nurses and physical therapists.
SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 10, 2022
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
Researchers at the University of South Australia have developed tiny optical fibre sensors to monitor movement and record vital signs, reducing the risk of pressure sores. The technology can detect when patients remain motionless for extended periods, prompting nurses to adjust their position.
SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 9, 2022
Staff turnover affects both residents and their families, compromising the quality of care. Continuity of nursing home staff and leadership is essential for delivering personalized care, as frontline workers deliver 90% of care. Researchers emphasize the need to attract and retain well-trained staff who enjoy working with older adults.
SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 4, 2022
A study of nursing homes found that states with vaccine mandates had higher staff vaccination rates and fewer staffing shortages compared to those without mandates. This suggests that vaccine mandates can lead to improved vaccination coverage among healthcare workers, reducing the risk of COVID-19 outbreaks in long-term care facilities.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateJul 29, 2022
A study of nearly 3,000 nursing homes found severe COVID-19 outbreaks resulted in temporary increases in contract staff and overtime, but these measures did not fully replace lost staff. The staffing declines remained significant for 16 weeks after the outbreak's start.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateJul 22, 2022
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
The Avoidable Transfer Scale identifies potentially avoidable hospitalizations in nursing home residents based on EHR data. The tool enables nursing homes to focus on trends and process improvements, benefiting residents and reducing healthcare costs.
SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalInnovation in Aging·DateJul 14, 2022
A new study found that the fourth COVID-19 vaccine reduces the risk of death among elderly individuals in long-term care facilities by 72%. The study, which included approximately 40,000 residents, also showed a significant reduction in hospitalizations and infections.
A new study by University of Missouri found that Black nursing home residents and those under 65 are significantly more likely to experience repeat hospital transfers. This phenomenon can be attributed to various factors including 'full-code' status regarding end-of-life care, comorbidities, and inadequate staffing. The study suggests ...
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalBMC Health Services Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 1, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
A study by the University of South Florida found that nursing home chains can achieve improved financial performance by standardizing staff ratios while having a similar percentage of Medicaid patients among residents. Customizing services tailored to local demand and competition leads to increased resident welfare, but may compromise ...
SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 24, 2022
A new study found that COVID-19 booster shots significantly increase neutralizing antibodies in nursing home residents and their caregivers, offering improved protection against Omicron variants. This research highlights the importance of booster vaccinations for vulnerable populations, including those living at home.
SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalEBioMedicine·DateJun 22, 2022
A California skilled nursing facility improved hand hygiene rates, increased PPE compliance, and reduced catheter-associated urinary tract infections by hiring a dedicated infection preventionist. The team's results demonstrate the value of having a full-time IP to implement best practices and train staff.
SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·DateJun 14, 2022
A decade-long effort to reduce medication risks for nursing home residents with dementia has shown some positive results, but also unintended consequences. Fewer people are receiving antipsychotic and anti-anxiety drugs, which can raise the risk of falling or dying, but more are receiving alternative behavior-changing medications with ...
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 31, 2022
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
Researchers found that care coordinators identifying illnesses early and providing timely care allowed most residents to 'age in place,' reducing need for nursing home care. Exercise and socialization opportunities also improved physical and mental health outcomes.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalGeriatric Nursing·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 27, 2022
A new poll by the National Poll on Healthy Aging finds that many older adults are not prepared for aging in place, despite wanting to live independently. The poll highlights the importance of planning for home modifications and social support, particularly for those without family members to care for them.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·TypeSurvey·DateApr 13, 2022
Professor Antonio Cherubini has made significant contributions to the field of geriatric medicine and musculoskeletal diseases. He is recognized for his work on aging, bone health, and age-related diseases.
SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·DateMar 24, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
A study found that many nursing home residents continue to receive insulin and other medications despite blood test results suggesting tight control. Only 27% of overtreated and 19% of potentially overtreated residents had their medications adjusted within 2 weeks.
SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 23, 2022
A study of 53.6 million Medicare enrollees found COVID-19 associated increased mortality in older adults with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, especially in nursing homes and minority populations. The results suggest a potential association between the pandemic and accelerated mortality rates for these vulnerable groups.
A new study by Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine found higher mortality rates among older adults with cognitive impairment during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study showed a 24% increase in mortality for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and a 36% increase for nursing home residents with ADRD.
SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalJAMA Neurology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2022
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.