complaint·September 12, 2025

Report Continued from LIC 9099… It was alleged that facility staff are forcing resident to stay in their room alone. It was reported that R1 is being forced to stay inside their bedroom alone all day, and that staff redirect R1 back into the bedroom when R1 attempts to leave. Record review and interviews conducted revealed that R1 tested positive for COVID-19 on 09/05/2025. Staff stated they were instructed to follow public health guidelines, which include self-isolation for ten (10) days following a positive test, as well as wearing masks when around others. The facility has been conducting COVID-19 testing twice a week, with the last test being completed on 09/11/2025. However, staff reported that R1 refused to take the COVID-19 test on that date and has also refused testing today. Staff further added that R1 is allowed to leave their bedroom but is encouraged to wear a mask to help protect the other residents. Staff also noted that R1 is allowed to spend time outside in the garden when other residents are not present, as R1 does not like wearing a mask. Interviews conducted with other residents indicated that they have not witnessed staff forcing residents back into their rooms and stated that they are able to go anywhere they choose. During today’s visit, the LPA observed R1 walking in the hallway without a mask. Although staff encouraged R1 to wear one, the LPA did not observe staff forcing the resident to return to their bedroom or requiring them to wear a mask. Based on the information obtained and reviewed, the Department has insufficient evidence to support the allegation of “facility staff are forcing resident to stay in their room alone”. Therefore, this allegation is deemed Unsubstantiated at this time. It was also alleged that facility staff are not allowing resident to leave facility premises with responsible person. It was reported that although R1 is allowed to have visitors and spend time in the courtyard, they are not allowed to participate in outings away from the facility unless the outing is strictly for medical appointments. Interviews with staff revealed that R1’s responsible person had inquired about taking R1 to a movie theater. Staff stated that the responsible person was strongly encouraged not to take R1 to public places, as R1 is unable to tolerate wearing a face mask for more than five (5) minutes at a time. Staff further explained that R1’s responsible person was advised that outings should be limited to essential medical appointments due to the potential health risk. Furthermore, although staff discouraged non-essential outings over concerns that R1 might still be contagious and pose a risk to the public, they acknowledged that it is ultimately R1’s responsible person final decision. Based on the information obtained and reviewed, the Department has insufficient evidence to support the allegation of “facility staff are not allowing resident to leave facility premises with responsible person”. Therefore, this allegation is deemed Unsubstantiated at this time. Exit interview conducted. A copy of the report was issued.