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NRobinson Issues Topic The Good, The Bad And The Ugly
1. The Good the Bad and the Ugly Living & Leisure Center’s for Later in Life By: Nicole Robinson TRMT 392, Special Topics: Seniors David Robinson, Ph.D. June 21st, 2010
2. Abstract Upon examining the living environments of various later in life facilities it became apparent that not all facilities are the same or abide by the same ethical standards. There is a direct link between leisure and a productive environment. Ulyssean life uses creativity as a learning process. However, there are many facilities that exist in Canada and abroad that do not offer an environment that helps to foster and encourage growth. This presentation will highlight the lack of choices seniors have. Nevertheless there is light at the end of the tunnel.
3. Introduction According to Statistic’s Canada the number of seniors is projected to increase from 4.3 million to 8.0 million between 2006 – 2026. This in turn shows the direct link between the need for long term care facilities, assisted living and day programs just to name a few, for the aging population. Some of the existing facilities are outdated, understaffed and overpriced. This presentation will show some of the good, bad and ugly that seniors are faced with in today’s society. It is imperative that recreation leaders take steps to ensure that there are choices for our seniors, to make educated decisions based on what is best for their needs and wants.
4. There Is Some Truth to This… I read this article recently and this story jumped out at me and is the basis for topic of this presentation. “It concerned an elderly Arizona gentleman who had been a felon for much of his life. For some years he had gone straight but owing to desperate finances, very bad health and perhaps an unflagging criminal bent, he held up a convenience store from his wheelchair at age 92. His getaway was none too swift and as he exited the handicapped ramp the police apprehended him. He was soon convicted and a wise judge deliberated on the sentence. The judge observed that the man was not a flight risk and that he badly needed care. The judge offered him a choice between 7-10 years in prison or admission to a local nursing home. The felon responded that he'd rather take his chances in prison because he'd never get out of a nursing home alive.”
5. Types of Environments Later in life individuals have a few options for residences or leisure facilities dependent on their physical, cognitive or most importantly financial capabilities. Below are a few of those options. Assisted Living Long term Care Adult Day Facilities Residential Care Nursing Home Retirement Community
6. THE UGLY There is an ugly side to some of the living/recreating environments for seniors in Canada. Listed below are just a few that seniors must contend with. It is very important to do the necessary research before choosing the right living or recreating facility. Elderly Abuse Medication Errors Neglect Isolation
7. THE BAD We have all heard stories of bad senior residences. Most of these stories stem from the list below. Small changes in the environment can make significant improvements in these facilities. Untrained staff Overcrowded Facilities Unsafe Resident Environments
14. CONCLUSION “Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do.” —Goethe The environment in which you reside or partake in leisure activities has an ethical obligation to ensure that first and foremost it offers a safe, clean and friendly environment. Ulyseean’s can have an effect on these choices by voicing their wants and opinions on what constitutes a good program or facility. For those that have no voice we need to be it for them.
15. References Breaking the Silence, Marjory LeBreton, (2008). Retrieved June 20, 2010 from http://www.seniorscouncil.gc.ca/eng/speeches/2008/080616.shtml Elder Abuse in Nursing Home Settings, Karen Stephenson, (2009). Retrieved June 20, 2010 from http://abuse.suite101.com/article.cfm/elderabuse in nursing home settings Elder abuse work: best practice in Britain and Canada By Jackie Pritchard Jessica Kingsley Publishers, (1999). Retrived June 20, 2010 from http://www.books.google.ca Harrison, D.L., Bootman, J.K. & Cox, E. R. (1997). Cost-effectiveness of consultant pharmacists in managing drug-related mobidity and mortality at nursing facilities. American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, 55, 1588-1594 Medical Dictionary. Retrived June 16, 2010 from http://www.themedicaldictionary.com Medical Terms. Retrieved June 16, 2010, from http://www.medterms.com Social Isolation Among Seniors: An Emerging Issue An investigation by the Children’s, Women’s and Seniors Health Branch, British Columbia Ministry of Health March 2004. Statistics Canada. Retrived June 16, 2010 from http://www.statcan.gc.ca/daily-quotidien/070227/dq070227b-eng.htm The Free Dictionary. Retrived June 16, 2010 from http://www.thefreedictionary.com
Editor's Notes
Financial is listed as the most important when it comes to choices as many seniors have limited financial resources. Some residences especially in rural areas are the only choice if they want to stay close to their families and friends. There is some debate over whether the not for profit facilities offers better resources/facilities than private (at least in response to cost).
Signs and Symptoms of Elder Abuse & NeglectVictims of elder abuse may develop and show signs of:depressionsocial withdrawalfear, anxiety, passivityunexplained physical injurylack of food, clothing or other necessitieschanges in hygieneRead more at Suite101: Elder Abuse in Nursing Home Settings: Elderly Care for Seniors in Residential Homes can be Abusivehttp://abuse.suite101.com/article.cfm/elder_abuse_in_nursing_home_settings#ixzz0rPWqaV7FIt is important that if a family member, friend, priest etc. notices changes in the attitudes explained above, they should immediately notify administration of the facility. It is also important to always ask on a continuous basis how they are being treated. If the elder has a problem with verbal communication they may be able to use hand or eye signals to respond to your questions. And lastly, never have a set schedule for visitation. This is a clear sign for a facility or it’s employees to act on their “best behavior” when in attendance.
Typically in these types of residences the bad can be countered with some distinct steps. Awareness – The understanding of “what is acceptable behavior, environment and activities”.Attitudes – Helping to change the attitude of what is the rights of elderly people.Staff Training – Need to be updated on procedure and practices of the right of the residents. Stay up to date on certifications.Professionalization of service – Ensuring that the employee has the capability and training to work in these environments. Empowerment – Give the resident the empowerment to complain, raise awareness and raise their expectations.Uncovering bad practices – Ensure there are better inspection processes.Original Story Copyright: Elder Abuse Work
Here is a link to what I believe is a good start to an assisted living residence. http://www.kingsriversidecourt.com/contact-usWhen it comes to safety and cleanliness of the facility, any good facility should be able to show documentation of their safety record, practices and policies.Amenities is also very important to a “good” facility. Things like computer access, gym, hair salon, chapel, laundry, esthetician, gardens and seating outdoors are very important to a resident feeling welcome and at home.
Here is a link to a few myths and facts about choosing nursing homes:http://www.nursinghomediaries.com/5mythschoosing.php