July 2008 -

 

We don’t want them, but we can’t do without them….

It is Christmastime 2007.  The words of Ebenezer Scrooge ring again in my head, “Have you no prisons, have you no poor houses?”

I am reminded of the origin for many of our nation’s nursing homes.  Many nursing homes of our day (specifically the county homes) originated in the late 1800’s and were then known as the county “poor farm” or “poor house.”  These were basically self-sufficient or charitable places where those without homes, jobs, families, or perhaps those with just bad luck, ended up to either seek shelter, receive a decent meal, or get back on their feet again.  Persons who were released from the nearby mental institution also required a place to stay as they cycled through the “systems” of that era.  Sometimes, it was just that the husband/father/wage earner of the family tragically died leaving a widow and her children to fend for themselves in a cruel world.

Whatever the case, during the 1800’s, the “poor farms” served their purpose as best they could.  Some of these “poor farms” were run more efficiently than others, as they cared for those in need.  There were also “poor farms” which were poorly run, as people were mistreated or not properly cared for.

The Evolution of Nursing Homes

In the 1960’s, our society decided that these institutions of care were not worthy of existence.  Laws were passed and governmental programs were developed (Medicare and Medicaid) that required certain sets of standards to be met in order for care to be provided.  A process of basic inspection began to occur to insure that these institutions (now known as nursing homes) or homes for the aged were at least following certain rules for cleanliness and care.  These facilities were no longer self-sufficient or supported by charitable donations, but now by citizen tax dollars and private payments.  Today, our nation’s nursing homes are overseen by the nation’s most extensive set of industry regulations and governmental scrutiny.  Today, as our elder population experiences massive, even explosive, growth as the baby boomers “come of age”, there are layers and levels of alternative care developing in an effort to avoid placement in a nursing home. 

Having worked over the last twenty-five years in five different nursing homes, I am at times a bit puzzled as to why nursing homes are often thought of in a negative light.  Now, I realize that I have been spared from working in some of the nation’s worst, and I realize that some nursing homes have had many issues.  I can assure you that what I have been a witness to, and proudly part of, are many nursing programs that provide wonderful and loving care to those served.  I have also had the privilege of serving on association boards and interacting with numerous other long-term care professionals who care deeply about their organizations, the people they serve, and the staff they employ.  At a minimum, their reputation and integrity are on the line to ensure that the best care that can be provided is provided.

A Personal Perspective on Nursing Homes

As an Administrator and advocate for the nursing home industry, I felt it was time to paint a positive picture of the nursing home setting that I experience on a daily basis.  I strongly encourage the general public who has never entered a nursing home, or those who have had a previous bad experience, to take another look at the industry.  I challenge you to rethink your feelings about nursing homes and the critical and devoted care we provide to our residents on a daily basis.

It seems our society does not want to pay for the care that our valued elders require and deserve.  Everyone feels it is the government’s issue and obligation to provide this care with government funds.  I suppose that may be correct.  After all, it was the government that abolished the “poor farms” and established the Medicaid programs to pay for “indigent” care.  But, it really all comes down to the question of who is going to pay for this care if the government does not?

Commercial television advertising by lawyers paints a dark picture of nursing homes for the general public.  It emphasizes, “Abuse…Falls…Bruises…Neglect…etc.”  While these kinds of things do happen in nursing homes, they also happen at home and many other places.  My most important and serious responsibility as the Administrator for Heritage Village Rehab & Skilled Nursing is the protection of our residents.  When problems do occur, and they sometimes do, it is my responsibility to investigate, make appropriate changes, and report an incident to the proper authorities, if necessary.  Most importantly, serious problems are the exception rather than the rule.  I understand that our news hungry society craves the bad news more than the good, but I would like our community to see the positive side of nursing home care, particularly in Chautauqua County. 

On a weekly basis, I receive letters from family members praising the care and love their family member received from our excellent staff.  Most of these letters highlight examples of meaningful events that occurred while their loved one resided in our facility.  They are written with a genuine appreciation towards the employees that cared for their loved ones during their time of need.  As I walk the halls of Heritage Village, I am able to observe the smiling faces of residents as they interact with staff and with each other, and as they daily participate in the host of specifically designed activities. 

Are nursing homes perfect?  No.  Do I look forward to entering a nursing home someday?  Not a chance.  I don’t believe anyone has such a goal.  But, if the time comes, and it likely will someday, when I am no longer able to be cared for in my own home, I am glad to be living in an area where nursing homes are as good as they are in America.

For Heritage Ministries, I know our employees care.  We are not in the business of making money; we are in the business of helping and serving people.  The Heritage mission statement indicates we are committed to promoting hope, dignity, and purposeful living on a daily basis.  This is why we all come to work.

If you haven’t visited a nursing home recently, I encourage you to call me at (716) 985-6700 to arrange a tour.  I want you to see first hand that nursing homes aren’t so bad after all.