Donna Martin | Support HB1179

I support this bill. My husband is living in a nursing home and I see the toll it can take on the residents and staff when there is not enough caregivers. I am at the nursing home 7 days a week/3-4 hours a day and observe a lot. There is not enough staff to get residents up, feed them (most need feeding) 3 times a day, change/toilet them regularly, shower them weekly, pass out meds and get them into bed. Not counting the activities and drinks, snacks during the day. There is always someone on vacation or calling out sick. There is a staff member who goes to work at 5:00 a.m. and doesn't leave till 7:00 p.m. because of shortages and she will not leave a coworker on a shift alone. It's not safe for resident or stafff. This bill should include a higher ratio of staff to residents to keep our elders safe and in good care even with the increase. As it is is a disservice to the elderly, and less fortunate physically and mentally. Thank you for voting for this bill.