I’ve seen shortages at care facilities

Re: “Sleep over hygiene for patients: Barrette” (Montreal Gazette, Nov. 23) For more than a year, I have witnessed the inadequacies in our long-term-care system. Gaétan Barrette can stop his union-bashing; real circumstances point to budgetary constraints.

It is difficult to watch conscientious workers looking after vulnerable residents when there are staff shortages and a lack of diapers, washcloths, bed pads, etc.

There is often a strong odour of urine or feces from residents who are not changed, and this is during the day. There are problems with food and drink.

It is doubtful that a family member with dysphagia would be here today if I had not fed her lunch and supper at the facility.

My expectation of the system is not to provide all the care a family member can give, but at least have enough staff and supplies. R. Mace, Lachine