REGINA – A group of families with loved ones in seniors facilities want more workers in Saskatchewan care homes.
Three women brought their stories about Prairie Pioneers Lodge in Swift Current to the legislature Tuesday, saying there’s just one care aide for every ten residents – many of whom suffer from dementia.
“They sell this as a home-like atmosphere,” said Terry Shumaker, whose mother-in-law, Kay, is 89 years old. “It’s not home-like to not clean your bathrooms more than once a week or (not) make your beds or have your place dirty.”
“It’s not a good scene.”
Betsey Ryan said her 92-year-old mother, Elizabeth Martens, isn’t being provided nutritious meals because the staff members don’t have time.
“It’s always canned soup and a sandwich that’s been made the night before,” Ryan said.
Opposition NDP leader Cam Broten raised the issue in Tuesday’s question period, saying the care aides’ responsibilities include cooking, cleaning and laundry in addition to personal care of residents.
READ MORE: Does Saskatchewan need a seniors advocate?
Greg Ottenbreit, the minister responsible for rural and remote health, said staffing levels have improved.
“They’re having continued meetings with families trying to address their needs,” Ottenbreit said, adding that staff could be shifted around because the care model at Prairie Pioneers Lodge is a pilot project.
Ottenbreit also said minimum staffing ratios in seniors care homes would not properly address resident needs.
The NDP has been criticizing seniors care in Saskatchewan for months and the ombudsman is investigating cases of alleged neglect.
With files from The Canadian Press
Comments