NALLTCO
National Association of Local Long Term Care Ombudsmen
Hello NALLTCO Members,
We received the true story below from a NALLTCO member who has returned to outside facility visits. We are so glad this member shared her experience this week and it is a wonderful reminder of why we are all still doing this very strange but completely rewarding job.
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I am out and about again and going to facilities every day! I cannot tell you how happy residents and staff are to see me!
Our state is rocking the return to facilities. Some of my buildings got hit hard. I have lost residents and staff to the virus. I asked an administrator today if her company has offered any counseling. She said, “Let’s walk.” We walked around the outside of the building. During our walk we saw four facility staff. The Administrator asked each of the staff how they were doing (referring to the loses) and all of them teared up or got choked up. We walked to the front of the facility and the Administrator said. “I need to make a call to corporate and tell them I was wrong. We do need counseling services.” The administrator then broke down a second time to me. She said, I need you back in my building. We all need you back.”
An Administrator who just last November wanted to complain about me to the State Ombudsman sent me an email saying, “It’s fantastic you are back at facilities! l will tell the residents today at the town hall that you are coming on Monday. I am going to fit you for the n95 mask and want you to come inside.” This was in response to my email letting him know that I would be coming to the facility soon which is part of our return protocol to give advance notice.
I have had tons of smiles and happy tears from residents. Residents tell me they love me and they have prayed for me, etc. Guys - we need to be out there! I’ll be inside a building soon!
Our State is currently only allowing outside visits, but they are so important. We will resume inside visits in September, and I cannot wait to see everyone!
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Good luck to all of you as you slowly get back to normal.
Take care and be safe!
Karen Jones, Chair