Allegations of neglect at senior’s home in Laval prompt investigation

Health care workers at a Laval seniors’ residence say residents are facing serious hygiene issues, missed meals and dehydration, prompting a government probe.

Health care workers at a Laval seniors’ residence claim the facility is struggling with poor hygiene, missed meals, and cases of severe dehydration, along with other things.

The union representing the workers at Le Dufresne resources intermediaries (RI) in Laval says the situation is “critical.”

“There are people who aren’t eating enough, people who aren’t drinking enough, and there are very serious hygiene problems,” said Robert Comeau, president of the Alliance du personnel professionnel et technique de la santé et des services sociaux (APTS).

Le Dufresne RI houses around 110 residents. While healthcare services are provided by employees of CISSS de Laval, hygiene and housekeeping are managed by Le Dufresne RI.

Comeau says the union has been raising concerns about the facility since May.

The situation has prompted an investigation by Quebec’s Ministry of Health and Social Services.

In a statement to CTV News, the Ministry confirmed it had contacted Santé Québec to launch an investigation.

“Several actions have already been taken to remedy the situation as quickly as possible,” it said. “We will continue to monitor the situation closely.”

CISSS de Laval also confirmed that it is working with Le Dufresne RI to address the concerns.

“Major investments have been made to improve infrastructure, and adjustments have been made to ensure the delivery of safe, quality care and services,” it said in a statement.

Both CISSS de Laval and Le Dufresne RI say it will accept the recommendations of the investigation, which began in early June and is expected to continue through the summer. The results of the investigation will be released in the fall.

That said, Comeau believes that urgent action is required, and that the investigation should not take so long.

“In our view, it shouldn’t take three months,” he said.