Can a LTC facility kick out my Dad if they don't get along with family?

A fellow caregiver asked...

My father is in a skilled care facility, and the staff doesn't get along with certain family members. When they take 25+ mins to take my Dad to the rest room and they leave him in wet clothes. When I visit my Dad I always address any issues concerning his care. I was told I am not aloud to visit him, unless supervised by my brother whom lives 800 miles away. The facility stated they will kick him out. They don't do their jobs. An aid will lie and head administration swears to it. PLEASE HELP

Expert Answer

As Founder and Director of Circles of Care, Ann Cason provides caregiving, consulting, and training services to individuals and public and private organizations involved in eldercare. She is the author of Circles of Care: How to Set Up Quality Home Care for Our Elders.

I am sorry to hear of your trouble; it can be very painful working emotions when a parent in long term care. I think a LTC facility can kick your father out, but it should not have to come to that. If you have questions about the quality of his care, you should talk to your local ombudsman. The Ombudsman's job is to listen to complaints and investigate, perhaps work out any difficulties. If the management is not telling the truth, they will be able to figure that out.

If that approach does not help, I suggest you get a Geriatric Care Manager to help you. The care manager will be able to work with the staff of the skilled nursing facility as well as give you some suggestions about how to approach nursing home staff. And the care manager may be able to help you work out some of the painful issues you are experiencing. When a parent suffers, it is so hard. I hope you will find some resolution and peace.