New beds not enough
Thursday, February 23, 2012
I take strong issue with Marc Mullo’s claim that the Lakehead Psychiatric Hospital’s closure “should not be considered dire or cause for concern” (letter, Feb. 20).
While it is true a new mental health wing will be added to St. Joseph’s Hospital, I don’t think the 60-or-more beds planned there will be adequate for the current residents of the LPH or those of the surrounding area which our facilities also serve.
We have an acute shortage of nursing beds which means a lengthy waiting time. With our aging population and the rapid growth of dementia, where will people have the opportunity to live out their lives with dignity, comfort and the care they deserve?
If anyone has had the opportunity to visit this wonderful, caring institution, you will concur how necessary and vital it is. I have a close family member residing in the Older Adult Rehab. centre there, suffering from Alzheimer’s, who requires constant monitoring. I see the care he receives; his needs are promptly attended to which is something our homes for the aged cannot provide on a constant one-on-one, 24-hour basis. It is crucial this facility remain open.
Arline Wilson
Thunder Bay
No comments:
Post a Comment