LIVONIA, Mich. – The Health Department abruptly shut down an assisted living home in Livonia on Wednesday, leaving elderly patients with no place to go and families rushed to find accommodations.
Residents of Ashley Court were ordered to move out by 6 p.m. Wednesday.
An investigation revealed disturbing details alleged abuse and quality of care issues, as well as a number of both safety and licensing violations.
In March, a resident fell in the shower and suffered a head injury. His head was wrapped in a towel and the man received stitches. The aid assisting said they didn’t know how to use a show chair and an incident report was never completed.
Another resident was taken to the hospital suffering from circulation and kidney problems due to lying in the same position for hours. She had bruising on her face and buttocks, as well as a bruise and skin tear on her knee. The resident’s undergarments were not changed and documents were falsified to indicate they had checked on the resident.
In May, a resident was dropped and hit her face on an end table. Her undergarments also were not changed.
On top of all of the allegations of abuse, there were 13 licensing rule violations, 20 safety violations, and allegations that employees were not properly trained and others had not received the necessary vaccinations.
According to a statement released by the state, the Michigan Bureau of Fire Services found several repeat violations at the home and the Bureau of Health Care Services found quality of care issues. The immediate threat that caused the suspension order was due to the Bureau of Fire Services’ disapproval of the buildings.
For families, the last 24 hours have been stressful.
“We had five hours notice to move my sister who has had three stokes and is affected on her left side," Jean Parent said. “I had to find a new place in five hours.”
The patients have been relocated and some were lucky enough to get into the care center next door.
Other families are having some of their loved ones move up to 30 miles away.
The state publishes a list of all licensed care facilities. Check the status of facilities here.