Mass. to require info on fire and emergency protocols from hundreds of assisted living homes in the wake of fatal Fall River fire
The homes must also send letters to residents and their families within the next five days that explain fire safety protocols, evacuation procedures and key points of contact for questions or concerns and post evacuation information in all units and common areas.
The fire at the Fall River home, Gabriel House, is still under investigation. About 70 people lived in the home, which served a lower income population. More than 75 percent of the residents there were enrolled in MassHealth. Families of residents described the home as poorly maintained and unclean. Workers said the home didn't conduct fire drills or evacuation training.
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More than 17,000 people in Massachusetts live in assisted living facilities, which provide some personal care support but not the complex medical care available at nursing homes. They are prized for the freedom and choice they offer, but increasingly care for people with significant mobility or cognitive limitations. They are far less regulated by the state than nursing facilities. AGE, which oversees these residences, re-certifies assisted living homes every two years. The Department of Public Health, by contrast, inspects nursing homes every nine to 15 months. Advocates for seniors and some politicians have demanded more robust state oversight over assisted living homes since the fire.
'I think we need to be far more stringent with regulations in this industry, and I thought that long before this fire,' said state Senator Mark Montigny, a New Bedford Democrat, during a meeting Tuesday of a state commission tasked with rethinking state oversight of the industry. 'I only hope that this fire will serve to do what we should have done ten years ago.'
Jason Laughlin can be reached at
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When you manage stress well, you're minimizing its harmful effects on your body and mind. This balance keeps your biological systems functioning smoothly, akin to a younger individual. Your approach to stress might include mindfulness, exercise, or simply taking things in stride. By not letting stress dominate your life, you maintain a calm and positive outlook. This resilience is a hallmark of youthful living, as it allows you to enjoy life more fully. Managing stress effectively also means you're investing in your long-term health, as chronic stress can lead to various age-related health issues. If stress management is part of your daily routine, it's a sign you're keeping your biological age in check. 10. You Enjoy Learning New Things Curiosity is a sign of a youthful mind. If you find joy in learning new things, whether it's picking up a hobby or exploring new ideas, you're maintaining a youthful curiosity about the world. 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Skin that looks youthful suggests that your body is performing optimally, keeping your biological age on the younger side. If people compliment your radiant complexion, consider it a testament to your youthful essence. 15. You Have A Strong Sense Of Purpose Having a clear sense of purpose is a hallmark of youthful living. If you wake up every day with a sense of direction and motivation, it means your mind is actively engaged with life's possibilities. This purpose provides a reason to get up every morning and contributes to a feeling of fulfillment and happiness. A strong sense of purpose is often linked to longer life expectancy and better mental health, aligning closely with traits of youth. It keeps you focused and driven, reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being. Purposeful living encourages you to stay active, make plans, and pursue goals, all actions that keep your mind and body young. 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Boston Globe
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Healey naming chief hospital lobbyist to regulatory agency overseeing state health care costs, prompting outcry
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