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In this week’s episode of HealthCap Weekly Wrap, we explore the latest research impacting dementia care, cognitive health, fall prevention, caregiver communication, and diabetes management in senior care communities. From identifying early warning signs of cognitive decline to discovering innovative nonpharmacologic interventions, these studies offer practical insights that can help care teams enhance resident well-being and quality of care.
Having multiple falls nearly doubles risk of dementia, study finds — Research suggests that middle-aged and older adults who experience recurrent falls have a significantly higher risk of developing dementia, highlighting the importance of fall prevention and early cognitive assessment.
Study: During pandemic, dementia rose, antipsychotic use slipped among nursing home residents — During the COVID-19 pandemic, residents experienced increased behavioral and psychological symptoms associated with dementia, particularly depression, while antipsychotic medication use continued to decline.
Behavioral symptoms of dementia and psychotropic use during the COVID-19 pandemic — This study found increases in behavioral symptoms such as depression, mood disturbances, wandering, and hallucinations among residents with dementia, underscoring the need for stronger psychosocial supports.
Video feedback intervention shows promise as tool to manage distress behavior in those with dementia, study finds — A video-feedback intervention helped caregivers improve communication, increase confidence, and better understand how their interactions influence residents living with dementia.
Effect of Board Games with Mobile Applications on Cognition in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Quasi-Experimental Study — Researchers found that combining traditional board games with a mobile application may support memory, attention, and executive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
When Should Our Patients With Diabetes Eat? — Emerging evidence suggests that eating more calories earlier in the day and limiting late-night meals may help improve insulin sensitivity and blood glucose control in people with diabetes.