SAXTONS RIVER-The recent reporting from VTDigger about the inadequacy of the state's private nursing homes ["Problems followed some of Vermont's largest and most troubled nursing homes after state approved new ownership," VTDigger, Oct. 28] reminded me of a very different mode of caring for our infirm elderly that seems especially appropriate to a state with underutilized homes and capable nursing providers - the group home.
More than two decades ago, when my parents were slowly declining, I was invited by my sisters to join them in investigating such homes in the Columbia, Maryland area.
Together, we easily gained access to a complete listing, and visited many of those by appointment. Although neither I nor my surviving sister remember the legitimization process for these, the one we chose was closely attended by a registered nurse, whose home it was. It was presumably subject to inspections and/or evaluations.
There were approximately six needy residents, in a pleasant and attractive large home, with rooms for all (my parents sharing one) - an arrangement that was much more stimulating than the standard institutional residences, partly due to there being two young children in the home.
When special care needs asserted themselves, there were no bureaucratic delays. Rather, the resident was brought to the hospital or other specialized facility. Such transfers were in place when each of our parents died, separately.
There were, of course, fees attached to these arrangements, but unlike the neglect and sometimes lack of compassion of private institutions, our parents were always attended by caring and competent professionals.
Vermont seems to me ideally suited for such an arrangement, one that may give peace of mind to our aged needy and rewarding employment to trained staff.
Helen Neswald
Saxtons River
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