Some Observations and Thoughts by the Founder, Paula

Some things Paula wants to share with you....

When I first started Elderly Advocates all I knew was I wanted to help those in long-term care facilites that I personally saw receiving poor care, including my own uncle. Poor care was a factor for him and many others in leading to bad events and outcomes (premature death). But I wasn't sure how to help them. After all this time, I have come to realize the way to help them is through family, friends and the community. There are agencies out there that are suppose to help the residents, however, most times, they can't speak up for themselves or won't due to fear of speaking up.

So, many times, it is truly up to the families to advocate on their behalf for what they want. However, it appears to me more and more each day that many times the families are seen as the problem. They are seen as wanting what they want done and not what the patient/resident wants done. It's almost like the families are the enemy. But, in the end, the families just want their loved ones to have their needs met and thrive to the best of their ability.

There is a huge communication gap between those that take care of our loved ones, whether in a hopsital or long-term care facility and we need to bridge that gap as it will be a win for all involved.

I do believe education is the first step to moving forward. The families mean well, but need support in how to advocate for their loved one. The facilities need to understand the families oversee care and what importance they play on what should be a team. The resident won't live in fear with knowing all sides are trying to work together and not against each other.

My mother is in the hospital this week and still there for a bit yet. What I have observed and seen has really shed some light on the issues for me. I have seen the dummy test being given repeatedly without any cause except the automatic ages you start getting them. I have seen communication so poor, it caused so much upset to the patient and family. I have seen informed consent not engaged when changing medications. I have seen the five rights of medication for patients ignored. Why do we have all these things in place to eliminate the chaos, and have what appears to be a power struggle going on. Of course the families are upset when it appears the healthcare systems seems to know what is best for our loved ones and gives the apprearance once you turn a certain age, they healthcare system takes control of your loved one. The way you are approached should not have to do with a number (your age) but it should have to do with your abiliites. We hear a lot of talk about person centered care and those words don't turn into action like they should.

It is difficult for us to help the residents directly as there are many barriers against that. However, we can work with the families and facilities to educate and improve relations through Zoom Meetings and public information sessions at the local libraries.

I have every confidence with more people supporting this effort and volunteering, we can make a huge difference. Things have got so out of control, there is only one way to go right now, and that is up.

It is my hope to see others join me, together we can make a difference, but only if we try. If we sit back and do nothing, we willl all see what I have when we turn certain ages.

#hospitalcare #longtermcare #elderlyadvocates #helpelders #volunteer #showsupport

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