Elder Law

Chicago Aldermen Discuss Tougher Oversight for Nursing Homes

By Levin & Perconti

Chicago aldermen stated that they were considering steps to strengthen oversight of troubled nursing homes that admit high numbers of felons and psychiatric patients. The city began focusing on felons and psychiatric patients in nursing homes after the Chicago Tribune published a series that exposed cases of rape and murder in nursing homes that mix criminals with the elderly. The Foster District police commander stated that there were nearly 5,000 calls for police service coming from Somerset Place nursing home in Uptown. She added that nearby shop owners were adversely affected by some residents who cause disturbances. While Chicago once inspected and licensed nursing homes, they have now turned over those responsibilities to the state. One alderman stated that the city should consider resuming licensing and inspecting facilities. Many were shocked at the number of felons and mentally ill patients that were housed with seniors. A representative from Loyola University stated that students are harassed by residents at Wincrest Nursing Center. She stated that residents were using drugs and panhandling because they were not getting the requisite care. To learn more about the Chicago nursing home plans, please click the link.

Full post as published by Illinois Nursing Home Abuse Blog on January 14, 2010 (boomark / email).