Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions Research documenting the efficacy of Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions in treating the psychological problems of older adults is encouraging. Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and somatic complaints (e.g., chronic pain elderly, insomnia) in multiple controlled studies. However, research also has indicated that there may be multiple variables to consider in determining whether Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions is the best approach to use with a specific patient and a specific problem. For example, differential effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions compared to other forms of psychotherapy is less certain. (more…)

Beneficiaries of the Medicare program have three rehabilitation-related benefits established by federal statute: physical therapy rehabilitation, occupational therapy, and speech-language therapy (speech-language pathology). All therapists, who must be graduates of accredited programs, must pass a national examination and be licensed, certified, or registered in their respective professions within the state in which the services are furnished. Medicare covers services that are necessary and likely to result in improvement in a reasonable period of time. Medicare does not currently regard prevention services provided by therapists as falling under therapy benefits and will not cover services intended to maintain a current level of function. (more…)

Hospice care became a recognized benefit under Medicare in 1983, and approximately 90% of all hospice programs are Medicare certified. As 28% of all Medicare costs go to persons in their last year of life, and 50% of such costs are expended during the last 2 months of life, (more…)

Are you a Baby Boomer who is taking take of an elderly loved one? I am. Perhaps you have dependent children too. And maybe a job or business. I do. Welcome to “the Sandwich Generation” — I’m sure you’ve heard of it. (As it turns out, we’re mostly women). All of our situations are different. Yet similar. For instance… (more…)

The care received by millions of older adults comes from a variety of sources. Although informal caregiver is the most preferred and frequently used source of assistance for older adults, formal care services also supply a great deal of support, especially for the millions of older adults who live alone or have no family or friends available to assist. Older adults who have a choice, however, prefer that family and friends help them once assistance becomes necessary. (more…)