“You have got your own space.” “A weight is lifted off my shoulder.” “It’s lovely just being independent for once.” These quotes show the importance of respite care to family caregivers of older adults (Ashworth …
Newsletter
Aging in the Heart of Rural Wisconsin
Rural communities are aging more rapidly than are other areas, in Wisconsin and across the country. Nearly everyone wants to stay in their community as they age. Increasingly, rural leaders are asking how they can …
Nurses on the Frontlines of Addressing Elder Abuse
Cecilia’s son told her that the government had stopped sending her Social Security checks. Concerned, Cecilia talked to another family member, who had noticed the son making big-ticket purchases. It didn’t take long to figure …
What Does Healthy Aging Look Like for Autistic Adults?
Older adults with an autism diagnosis are a relatively new phenomenon. The first person ever diagnosed with autism, Donald Triplett, is now 85 years old. Donald has lived a full life, graduating from college, working …
A Day in the Life of a Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
“How are you feeling today, Esther?” asks Sarah Endicott, DNP, APNP, GNP-BC. Endicott is starting her rounds at the rural skilled nursing facility where she sees patients once a week. “I’m Sarah, the nurse practitioner, …
Safety Conversations that Don’t Drive People Away
Stereotypes about older drivers abound. For example, they drive too slowly. They’re unsafe. They’re not aware of their own limitations. The reality is more complex. Nearly half of all U.S. drivers are over age 65. …
Crafting Tools for Dementia Friendly Care and Communities
Charlie holds up a prescription bottle and looks at the pharmacist, confused. “You are not due for a refill on your metoprolol,” says the pharmacist. “I refilled this medication for you Tuesday. Remember?” “I need …
Helping Students See the “Invisible Patient”: Family Caregivers
“If Alzheimer’s is bad, ignorance of the disease is worse,” says family caregiver and former Wisconsin Governor Martin Schreiber. Since his wife Elaine was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s 14 years ago, Schreiber has struggled with …
There’s No Place Like Virtual Home (for Home Care Simulations)
In the clinic, health care professionals can warn older adults about falls. During a home visit, they can point out the loose rug in the living room or the dim lighting near the stairs. Seeing …
The Secrets of Success for Nursing Staff Retention in Long-Term Care
Ask any long-term care nurse or administrator. They all want to improve recruitment and retention of nursing staff. They understand that lower staff turnover rates lead to better care at lower costs. It’s not that …