Research linking depression and diabetes is compelling -- and the likelihood of the conditions occurring simultaneously is even greater in older women. Depression often makes it difficult for patients to follow a diabetes treatment plan, which places them at risk for avoidable complications and can increase the likelihood of premature death. Given these facts, healthcare professionals who work with older women have strong reasons to take a leadership role in ensuring screening and intervention for both conditions. Read More >>

The two-volume Doorway Thoughts series offers an easy-to-read introduction to ways that clinicians can improve care for older patients by understanding the health-related beliefs and practices of diverse cultural groups. “‘Doorway thoughts’... are key concepts that the culturally aware health practitioner reflects upon before walking into any examination,” writes reviewer Moira Fordyce, who notes such thoughts “can influence healthcare encounters and relationships for good or ill.” Read More >>

Money Follows the Person is a federal demonstration program that encourages states to shift the balance of funding for long-term care from institutional to community-based settings. Launched in 2005, the five-year initiative is the largest such demonstration in the history of Medicaid. Debra J. Lipson, a senior researcher evaluating the outcomes of the program, updates us on the challenges states are encountering -- and the solutions they are proposing to successfully move elders from nursing facilities into the community. Read More >>

The belief that Alzheimer’s disease means the loss of self makes the condition particularly frightening to contemporary Western society. Drawing on the disciplines of history and anthropology, two recent books provide a rich analysis of the ways that our understanding of Alzheimer’s disease reflects this notion of self. The authors suggest that taking a critical look at ideas of normality, dementia and personhood might shift our thinking in valuable ways. Read More >>

August may bring the last lazy days of summer for some -- but ASA is buzzing with activity, writes HAN Leadership Council chair Monika White. Plans are in place for a dynamic Autumn Series on Aging, with nuts-and-bolts intensives on topics ranging from diabetes, falls and injuries to transitions from hospital to home. What’s more, ASA’s annual conference is just down the road. Monika lets us in on the new name and the streamlined new structure that are set to revitalize this premier event for professionals in aging. Read More >>