Category: Aging

How To Find And Use New Federal Ratings For Rehab Services At Nursing Homes

For the first time, the federal government is measuring the quality of rehab services in nursing homes for the millions of older adults who need post-hospitalization care.

‘Living Their Values’: Palliative Care Power Couple Faces Cancer At Home

Kathy Brandt and Kim Acquaviva are both leaders in the world of hospice and palliative care. When Brandt learned she was dying of ovarian cancer, the couple decided it could be a teachable moment.

Podcast: KHN’s ‘What The Health?’ ‘Conscience’ Rules, Rx Prices and Still More Medicare

Joanne Kenen of Politico, Jen Haberkorn of the Los Angeles Times and Alice Miranda Ollstein of Politico join KHN’s Julie Rovner to discuss the latest news about the Trump administration’s effort to allow health care practitioners and organizations to refuse to provide care or refer patients for services that violate their conscience or religion. Also this week, the administration orders TV ads for prescription drugs to include list prices. And Tennessee wants free rein from the federal government to run its Medicaid program. Plus, Rovner interviews Joan Biskupic, author of a new book on Chief Justice John Roberts, about the behind-the-scenes negotiations that led to the 2012 ruling upholding the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act.

Readers And Tweeters Parse Ideas — From Snakebites To Senior Suicide

Kaiser Health News gives readers a chance to comment on a recent batch of stories.

Even Doctors Can’t Navigate Our ‘Broken Health Care System’

A physician’s frustration navigating a medical emergency with his elderly father reveals a complex, dysfunctional system.

Researchers Seek Sage Advice Of Elders On Aging Issues

The Bureau of Sages, a group of frail, older adults, gives feedback to researchers about what matters to older adults.

In 10 Years, Half Of Middle-Income Elders Won’t Be Able To Afford Housing, Medical Care

An eye-opening study of demographics and income finds that the costs of assisted-living care will soon be out of reach for people on fixed incomes — and their children.

Economic Ripples: Hospital Closure Hurts A Town’s Ability To Attract Retirees

Celina, Tenn., has long lured retirees, with its scenic hills and affordability. These newcomers help fuel the local economy. But a recent hospital closure makes the town a harder sell.

States Push For Caregiver Tax Credits

Families often spend thousands of dollars caring for ailing loved ones at home. Lawmakers in California and at least seven other states want to provide some financial relief with state income tax credits.

Nursing Home Fines Drop As Trump Administration Heeds Industry Complaints

Inspectors are citing nursing facilities for violating health and safety more often than during the Obama administration. But the average fine is nearly a third lower than it was before President Donald Trump took office.