Another Year, Another Special State Investigation

Written after we held a small gathering, coffee and donuts at the facility to share Mom's life/leaving with residents and some staff we have considered caring and did help us with Mom's caregiving.


They're back. 


Thick briefcases in hand.


Didn't realize it at the time as I caught a brief glimpse of a small gathering of women in the lobby of the facility and passing by on their way to set up yet another "office on site" to being yet another "investigation" of the facility.


Whispers turn into small waves of gossip -- they're here again.  Staff become very visible; people move around and residents get more attention than they've had for many days and nights. It's yet another State Investigation.


And then they come. To pay their respects. People who were absent or not available or who just couldn't seem to "get it together" during many times we'd sought help in securing services at a level respecting the individual and human dignity.


They share our sorrow. Hard to believe from some. They're told we plan to continue to come. To visit others. To be there for them. The smile on some faces doesn't reflect in the eyes; is that concern? It should be. We're not silent and we don't believe in not questioning neglect or potential abuse.


Sad. Really. So many possibilities. We've sat with them even when Mom was dying and tried to explain how concerned we are; how valuable and necessary they are to the community they serve and to the community in general. Did we reach the right ears? Were they anyone who can do anything positive?


We'd thought so many times we'd met with the Administrator we were getting through. Some positive actions were taken. Some changes were made. Now, it's been almost a year and many functions are reverting to the low levels they'd been for so long and others are dropping below what they had become.


Why is it so difficult to run a caring and involved facility where accurate and good communication is the norm?


Why doesn't someone look beyond the dollars and cents and realize they will accomplish more by looking to those who really care and bringing their ideas and actions into everyday life at the facility -- residents, staff, family and friends.


Welcome your sharing comments about facilities that do provide caring, responsible and sharing facilities at the Skilled Nursing level.