Seniors’ advocate, NAPE say they aren’t surprised by findings in AG report on personal care homes

Newfoundland and Labrador’s seniors’ advocate, Susan Walsh, expressed her lack of surprise at the recent findings in the auditor general’s report, which raised serious concerns about the state of personal care homes in the province. The report highlighted issues such as resident deaths, sexual abuse by staff, missing residents, and verbal abuse within these facilities.

Walsh pointed out that families have been voicing these concerns for years, with horrific stories being shared as early as 2022 when she began her role as seniors’ advocate. Despite multiple reports calling for improvements in the personal care home program, it seems that there is a lack of accountability and oversight within the Department of Health and Community Services.

The seniors’ advocate emphasized the need for updated legislation to support a continuum of care, covering various aspects such as personal care in homes, assisted living, long-term care, and palliative care. Currently, Newfoundland and Labrador lack legislation to protect individuals residing in these facilities, highlighting a significant gap in the system.

Walsh recommended the establishment of an independent body to hold the provincial government accountable and eventually pass legislation to safeguard seniors. She also highlighted the limitations of her role, as the seniors’ advocate in the province does not have the authority to investigate individual complaints, focusing solely on systemic issues.

In response to the report, NAPE president Jerry Earle echoed Walsh’s concerns, particularly regarding medication errors, food quality, staff training, and the significant increase in government funding for personal care homes without visible improvements. Earle raised questions about how the additional funds were utilized and emphasized the need for transparency in the allocation of resources.

He also criticized the for-profit model of care in personal care homes, stating that a publicly administered system would ensure consistent standards across the province and prioritize the well-being of vulnerable populations over profit-driven motives.

Overall, the findings in the auditor general’s report shed light on the urgent need for reform and accountability in the personal care home program in Newfoundland and Labrador. Stakeholders like Walsh and Earle are advocating for legislative changes and improved oversight to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in these facilities.