A new book warning about the impact of ageism and negative stereotypes on the medical care of older people is a must read for all in the aged care sector, writes Ngaire Hobbins.
Research & Clinical
The elder abuse plan doesn’t go far enough: opinion
An emphasis on vague goals like building momentum and safeguards in the national plan to tackle elder abuse would be better replaced by targeted funding of proven local services, writes Myfan Jordan.
Australian-first study trialling cannabis with residents with dementia
A West Australian study is investigating the impact of medicinal cannabis on the quality of life and behaviours of aged care residents living with dementia.
Australian dementia rates drop
Dementia rates are on the decline in Australia thanks to a shift towards healthier lifestyles, new research claims.
New study investigating link between resident frailty and their use of space
A provider and university collaboration is examining how aged care residents’ health changes over time with the support of a new specially-designed frailty screening tool.
Photography project identifies what residents value
Nature, relationships between staff and residents and leisure activities and social events are the three things that make living in aged care enjoyable, Queensland University of Technology research finds.
Scholarships aim to close gaps in palliative care services
Aged care nurses are among those awarded scholarships to complete postgraduate palliative care programs under a new initiative that aims to improve end-of-life care across settings.
Resident’s payment class not provided to facility until after entry under new model
The assessment and funding model proposed by the University of Wollongong recommends residents be grouped by 13 payment classes and that facilities not be advised of a resident’s class until after they are in care.
New program targets mental health needs of residents
A new initiative will deliver psychological services to aged care residents and provide training opportunities for staff working in residential care facilities.
Avoiding medication when residents become aggressive
There are other solution-focused ways to try and overcome a resident’s aggression or agitation, Tamar Krebs writes.
‘Innovative strategies’ required to increase nutrient content of Meals on Wheels
Researchers are working with Meals on Wheels to find ways of boosting the energy and protein intake of customers.
Tip sheets support care workers, nurses to deliver quality palliative care
Aged care’s palliative care evidence and practice resource centre has developed two new resources to help aged care nurses and care workers provide quality end-of-life care.
Best-practice use of benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines have limited use and should be used with caution in older people, writes Natalie Soulsby.
Call for a new approach to preventing bed sores
Interrupting residents sleep to prevent pressure ulcers is ineffective and abusive and could be linked to behavioural concerns, the author of a recent study tells Australian Ageing Agenda.
