Sharing Positive Experiences in Assisted Living Facilities: A Skeptical Perspective

Working in nursing homes for eight and a half years, my experiences were a mix of wonderful and not so great. While the good days involved getting to know patient families and learning invaluable care skills, the bad days can leave a lasting impression. One particularly memorable 'bad day' stands out; it involved a patient with a colostomy bag who, due to a nurse's negligence, had their bag cut and feces spilled all over them. This not only affected the patient's hygiene but also impacted the hospital and my current care of my mother.

Retirement and Assisted Care Facilities

As I age, I have encountered friends who have decided to move into retirement/assisted care facilities. However, their experiences have not been as rosy as the stories presented to them. Within three to six months, they realized the housing was not as advertised. Management changes, food service issues, and equipment breakdowns overshadowed the promised amenities. The continual charging of high fees, such as $3500 for a one-bedroom apartment, made the situation even more stressful.

Challenges in Long-Term Care Facilities

Based on my extensive experience with two 'hellhole' nursing homes, positive experiences are hard to come by. Medications are often discontinued or restricted, and patients are denied access to specialists, routine tests, and proper care. The food served is bland and lacks variety, with many patients feeling they are on a carbohydrate-heavy diet. Personal belongings are often lost or misplaced, and the staff's negligence can lead to physical and emotional distress.

Personal Anecdotes and Struggles

My personal struggles include being denied important medical care due to arbitrary decisions by the facility's administrators. For instance, being taken off pain medication and muscle relaxants while being diagnosed with conditions like fibromyalgia, hydrocodone, danli, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc, and a torn meniscus. Additionally, there are strict limitations on seeing an orthopedist, neurologist, or pain management specialist. Basic services such as petting a puppy or smelling a flower are denied, adding to the frustration. More troubling are the episodes of sexual assault by a shower aide and being beaten by a medical aide, which left a lasting impact on my mental and physical health.

Bedsores and infections were common, and timely access to medical care was often denied. For instance, a patient who required a shower due to illness was told it was not their day, and when they finally got one, the facility had run out of time. The activities available were limited to coloring and bingo, and watching TV was not an option.

Conclusion

While assisted living and nursing homes can offer a sense of security and community for those in need, the reality can often be far from the idealized stories presented. It is crucial for potential residents and families to thoroughly research and visit facilities before making a decision. Focusing on clear communication, resident feedback, and patient rights can help ensure a more positive experience in such settings.

Remember, the key is to find a place that prioritizes the holistic care and well-being of its residents, balancing warmth and support with stringent medical and administrative standards.