The news agency reported that inspection reports show there were 97 violations last year split between 13 of the city's 15 nursing homes. Officials working on the cases found more than half of the problems were directly about the quality of care seniors receive with the rest focusing on various other infractions.
Nursing home operators and long-term care providers argue the reports don't accurately portray the situation because many of the citations are not related to the overall care of residents. The standards include guidelines on things like personal and dental hygiene care for residents and food quality, among others.
Facilities that receive a reprimand during an inspection must present a follow-up plan to investigators to show how the previously-reported problems have been addressed. Donna Rubin, CEO of the Ontario Association of Non-Profit Homes and Services for Seniors, told The Canadian Press the existing rules are onerous and overly bureaucratic, tying up workers and limiting them in helping nursing home residents.
Critics counter the large number of infractions indicate seniors are not receiving the care they need and deserve.
cclay@mississauga.net
