Don, you hit the nail on the head. Nursing homes really bother me. I have been a primary caretaker for in-laws for over 15 years and what I see is sickening. I will not perform in a "for profit" facility under any circumstance.

I actively support an organization called Kentuckians for Nursing Home REform. This group lobbies for changes to laws governing staffing, training, etc. When you dig into the realities of the situation, care levels (or lack thereof) are appauling. Industry lobby groups are well financed and organized.
And most have no conscience at all.

For 15 years, I have made this the top priority on my list of social concerns. "Doc" and his wife, who passed away years ago have the assets to get superior care. It just doesn't happen unless you personally check feeding schedules, meds, potential abuse, every aspect of the care process, etc. I have seen it all happen to dear family members, at the most expensive facilities in the area. I hear folks talk about the great care they see at places they play. Look deeper. Examine state inspection records. You'll be shocked when you get beyond the exterior "fluff". And, nationally, this is the norm, rather than the exception.

It's a national tragedy, and one I'm going to fight to fix as long as I can.

Russ



[This message has been edited by captain Russ (edited 12-15-2008).]