New report on security in N.B. nursing homes aims to prevent harm to seniors

Mid-section of a nurse helping senior patient to stand with walker. (CTV file photo)

A new report is identifying areas for improvement in New Brunswick’s nursing homes.

The province says the report has been released in keeping with its commitment to review safety and security procedures at the institutions.

“All seniors deserve to live in homes where they feel safe and respected,” says Seniors Minister Chantal Boudreau in a news release.

The report, “Review of Safety and Security in Nursing Homes,” heard 57 responses from different nursing homes across the province.

They recommended measures like increasing staffing levels, the use of technology and security systems and improved communications materials.

Other recommendations include creating new legislation focused on the care of older adults and collaborating with care providers to address challenges.

“This report provides a path for improving safety standards, communication and response times in long-term care, setting the groundwork to deliver better care and peace of mind for residents and their families,” says Boudreau.

“We are committed to fulfil our promise to review and strengthen safety protocols by building a care system where seniors and their families feel supported.”

Boudreau points to a recent case of seniors being sexually assaulted at a Saint John long-term care facility as a “stark reminder.”

“This is a sad situation that underscores the importance of working together to find solutions to prevent such tragic incidents from happening again,” the minister says in the report.

The report is also accompanied by two new resources expanding on how to resolve concerns about loved ones in long-term care facilities, like potential reports of assault or neglect.

These resources include a webpage and an infographic.

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