New York
Rochester rally demands answers as 50 residents remain at closing Waterview Heights
Community members rallied in downtown Rochester over conditions at Waterview Heights nursing home, where about 50 residents were still waiting to be placed elsewhere amid a shortage of long-term care beds.
Key facts
- 13WHAM reported on September 27 that community members gathered at Washington Square Park in downtown Rochester that Sunday to protest what they called continued neglect of residents at Waterview Heights Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.
- About 50 residents were still living there, and state officials said the facility must stay open until all residents are safely discharged to an appropriate place.
- The CEO of Lifespan of Greater Rochester, which has been supporting residents, said a shortage of available long-term care beds has added uncertainty.
What happened
13WHAM reported on September 27 that community members gathered at Washington Square Park in downtown Rochester that Sunday to protest what they called continued neglect of residents at Waterview Heights Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. About 50 residents were still living there, and state officials said the facility must stay open until all residents are safely discharged to an appropriate place.
The CEO of Lifespan of Greater Rochester, which has been supporting residents, said a shortage of available long-term care beds has added uncertainty. Rally participants demanded transparency. Assemblyman Josh Jensen said, "the long-term care crisis doesn't need bandages anymore."
What it means for families
When a nursing home closes in a region short on beds, the last residents can wait weeks for a new placement. Families need to stay in close contact with the home, the state and advocates during that time.
For example: a family whose father is among the last residents can ask Lifespan or the ombudsman to help review each offered bed, and to flag any care concerns while he waits.
Families can also ask whether a bed may open at a home closer to them later, and whether their relative can be placed on that home's list now. Lifespan of Greater Rochester has been working with residents and families during this closure.
Quick answers
How many residents remained at Waterview Heights in late September?
13WHAM reported on September 27 that community members gathered at Washington Square Park in downtown Rochester that Sunday to protest what they called continued neglect of residents at Waterview Heights Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. About 50 residents were still living there, and state officials said the facility must stay open until all residents are safely discharged to an appropriate place.
What to do this week
- If your relative is in a closing nursing home, ask for weekly updates on their placement.
- Visit or call often and write down any care concerns with dates.
- Contact the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program or Lifespan of Greater Rochester for help.
- Ask the state Department of Health how families will be notified of each step in the closure.
Sources
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