Venous thromboembolism—the umbrella term for blood clots including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism—should be a leading concern in most long-term care facilities and for clinicians who provide care to the elderly. Three factors propel it to the top of the list of concerns: its frequent clinical silence, its close association with significant morbidity and mortality, and the presence of increasing age and confinement (acute immobilization) as risk factors. Although many facts about venous thromboembolism are well known, it remains seriously underrecognized. It is, in fact, the third most common cardiovascular disease after coronary heart disease and stroke. (Annals of Long-Term Care: Clinical Care and Aging 2006;14[1]:17-22)

The majority of men residing in nursing homes are hypogonadal, resulting in symptoms such as loss of libido, muscle mass, and strength. Older men who display these symptoms and have a serum total testosterone concentration of less than 300 ng/dL may be suitable candidates for testosterone replacement therapy. In the early phase of testosterone replacement therapy, serum testosterone should be measured and the dose adjusted to achieve a eugonadal state. After the resident has been on a stable dose of tes-tosterone for at least 30 days, he should be evaluated for beneficial and adverse effects. If a benefit is obtained and therapy is continued, the person should be monitored for adverse effects every 3-6 months. (Annals of Long-Term Care: Clinical Care and Aging 2006;14[1]:27-33)

With the projected doubling of the older population over the next 25 years, it is anticipated that the burden of dementia caregiving will increase correspondingly. Certain factors modulate this burden: advancing stage of disease; nature and quality of the patient–caregiver relationship; patient and caregiver age; gender; race and ethnicity; and the community of residence. Interventions such as respite, psychosocial therapy, training sessions, and cholinesterase inhibitors may decrease caregiver burden. This article highlights issues that complicate caregiving at different stages of care, and offers suggestions for geriatrics health care providers to support caregiving throughout the continuum of care. (Annals of Long-Term Care: Clinical Care and Aging 2006;14[1]:34-41)