I don't play nursing homes or assisted living places at all. I've been the primary caregiver for two family members for 15 years.

"For profit" establishments, in my opinion, are the "bottom of the barrel" when it comes to medical related issues. And, the problems are not related to the prices charged or the income/wealth of the resident. Most places are sub-standard, at best. That's part of the problem. "For profit" places fight as hard as they can to avoid establishment of care standards.

I can see that it would be a good thing to bring a little enjoyment to residents, but I decided to get very active in working towards legislation changes to try to get a handle on
blatent incompetency, lack of compassion and a focus on profits above all else.

I choose to donate the proceeds of one job a week ($250+) to a group that lobbies for increased training, oversight and overall accountability. This way, an individual makes the check out to the 501(c), so it is tax deductible. Last year, the donation was over $13,000.00. I kick in another $12,000.00 from my pocket.

The nursing home and senior care lobby is strong and well-funded. What a shame they don't devote some of the millions in funds spent on their lobby efforts to improve care.

I pop into nursing homes every day, and the problems are blatent and potentially life threatening. I have done this for over 15 years.

Things may look fine when you visit casually. When you look at state inspection ratings or the newly established Federal rating system, you find that things are not as they seem at first glance.

I can't in good conscious accept payment for playing and, by "osmosis" be a part of most of these despicable places.

It is a national trajedy, and I'm working with a lot of very dedicated people nationally to do what we can to fix it.

Our seniors deserve much better treatment than they're getting.

Sorry for the rant....

Russ