Approximately two weeks ago a long-time resident of Dufferin Oaks had a fall resulting in an injury that would require an operation and a stay in hospital.

While falls happen and require operations to many residents from time to time, this long-time resident was very active at the residence and interacted regularly with visitors on the first floor.

While I am not a resident, my mother is a resident, and I visit her frequently. Anytime I see this long-term resident, I say hello and often have a short visit.

Since the fall I have inquire on their condition at the main reception desk but was told they had no information. My mother and others have been inquiring as well, so yesterday I made a point of asking a young staff officer at the desk. I got "I have not heard anything" response, so I left. Today, I again asked, this time a different young staff officer, and was told there was no information.

Now all I was asking was had the resident had their surgery? How were they doing? When were they expected back? I do not believe any of these questions should be considered "Privacy" type questions.

I said to the young staff member that I could not understand how the staff would have so little interest in a long-time resident to not have any up to date information on their general well being? The staff member said it is a "Privacy" issue. Their instructions were to give "no information."

Our family, friends and possibly ourselves, do or may live in Dufferin Oaks in the future, where I for one believe it should be a "caring, supportive, interactive, friendly" environment which would mean that the very general questions I asked of the staff would result in an answer along the lines - the resident had their operation, they are doing well/not so well, and will be back soon/next week, etc.

I believe everyone visiting or having any interest in Dufferin Oaks should express their position on this issue. I believe that staff should be directed to provide the general information. To make this happen you will likely have to speak with county representatives on the board to have any impact. I urge you to do that.
Robert W. Anderson
Shelburne