Who do we contact about an elderly resident's hazardous living conditions?

Find out contact information for whatever relatives there are and send them a kindly note stating their relative is in dire straits. I expect the relatives are aware he drinks but may not be aware of the extreme state he is in. If I were in your shoes, if the relatives don't step up quickly, I'd start at the VA hospital, then veterans' organizations like the VFW, check with the Public Health Department, the Health and Social Services department for your state, church organizations, the Salvation Arny, the works, Just keep a notebook of dates, organizations and *the name of the person* you spoke with. Tell them you are keeping a log (in a kind way). Try and determine who his doctor is. Of course the doctor can't tell you anything about the patient, but you can tell (ideally, fax) the doctor what the situation is; this puts the responsibility on the doctor.

Perhaps the condo board could share the state of his living conditions with the social work department at the rehab. Perhaps APS should be contacted.

I should add that the VA has been stepping up its depression and risk assessments and may find that this man is one of the ones who falls into the high risk categories. I don't know what programs it is, but it's certainly aware of the challenges that vets face on returning to civilian life.

You might even contact the local VA and what they can do to assist a veteran in need of psychological support.

As to your question, contact the local APS and ask them to investigate and become involved, if necessary. They can intervene and address the issue of safer living conditions, or contact the VA if appropriate and get his PCP involved to find a safer placement where more support and assistance are available.

I do think it's wise and compassionate of you and your associates to address this man's condition, as it sounds as if he really does need help. Just don't provide so much personal information so someone can find out where this condo is.

I think this man should either consider going into an assisted living facility or a nursing home - he is a danger to himself along with his fellow residents.