Please remember, this column is designed to help the consumer seeking behavioral-health information, and not intended to be any form of psychotherapy or a replacement for professional, individualized services. Opinions expressed in the column are those of the columnist and do not represent the position of other SelfhelpMagazine.com staff.

Question

My father is in a nursing home and I am afraid that he is not receiving the proper care. I have visited him in the middle of the day when he wasn't dressed yet and have witnessed several other things that cause me concern. I have talked to the staff but nothing seems to happen. Do you have any suggestions about what to do?

Answer

Unfortunately this is not an uncommon problem. First, make sure you know when all the care conferences are regarding your father's care and attend them. Listen carefully to their plans, voice your concerns, and keep your involvement steady.

I also suggest you contact the Ombudsman Program in your state or country which you can reach through your area office on aging. Although many people are fearful of calling the Ombudsman Program because they fear retaliation, that is rarely the case. An ombudsman will investigate the issues and become an advocate for your father. It is often very helpful to have an official keeping an eye on the situation. It also alerts them that other care issues at the facility may need to be looked into. By going this route you not only help your father but help the other residents as well.

3/12/98

Emily Carton MA, LISW, is a licensed social worker who works with Elder Options, a private care social service firm in the DC Metropolitan Area. She is also an is an intern in Bibliotherapy at St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Washington D.C.