I don't think staffing levels differ significantly between LTC homes that provide excellent care and those that are mediocre or worse, I've said before that an example has to be set from the top down; an empathetic DON and/or DOC who model the kind of attitudes they expect from their staff. We need caring admins and management who work with staff and families to find solutions tailored to each unique problem that arises, we need to work smarter with the resources we have available, we need to be willing to cut the "dead wood" among staff who shift the care burden to fellow workers whether they are inept or just lazy and feel they are bullet proof because they have seniority.... shall I go on?
Good idea Ruby! Failing that, maybe if more people volunteered to visit seniors whether it be at their homes or in professional care they could make a real difference.
Thank you for your reply. I am a PSW working in a LTC Home and I love your soft approach with staff that is very kind. Every day I see family of my residents I wish I could ask them to reach out to the owners of the Home and the government to demand better care for their loved ones. I have reached out for help from the government expressing my deep concerns regarding neglect and safety of residents but one voice is not enough. I'm struggling with the sadness and shame I feel for the low level care I am able to provide my residents. Quite frankly if a child in daycare was treated the way a senior is treated in most LTC Homes the care providers would be up on criminal charges. I have considered leaving the PSW profession but I can't just walk away and forget about what I have experienced. Instead I try to make a good difference one day at a time. I desperately urge all family, friends and PSW's to speak up and demand better care more humane care! There are anonymous routes to express yourselves if that is more comfortable. I know in Ontario there is The Long Term Care Action Line 1-800-434-0144 I have used it myself.
Well, it has to be dealt with at a grass roots level. Unfortunately, government has to make Aging Care a priority. Too bad it was not discussed at tonight's debate.
I know here in Canada understaffing is a real problem. Our seniors get the short end of the stick if there are not enough staff to ensure that each and every senior gets the undivided attention that they need.
My Mom is now deceased but I was the squeaky wheel when she was in nursing care. Unfortunately, when staff is already overworked they do not usually appreciate it when family becomes another thorn in their side. Buttering up the staff with compliments and presents sometimes works. LOL
I know here in Canada understaffing is a real problem. Our seniors get the short end of the stick if there are not enough staff to ensure that each and every senior gets the undivided attention that they need.
My Mom is now deceased but I was the squeaky wheel when she was in nursing care. Unfortunately, when staff is already overworked they do not usually appreciate it when family becomes another thorn in their side. Buttering up the staff with compliments and presents sometimes works. LOL