Nursing facility in question undergoes second closure within county jurisdiction.
Long-Term Care Institution (ILPI) in Contagem's Eldorado neighborhood was once again closed on Wednesday, May 28th. The shutdown followed a joint inspection by several city departments, including the Health Surveillance, Human Rights and Citizenship Secretariat, and Social Development Secretariat. The Municipal Guard, Civil Police, and municipal health officials accompanied the action.
Approximately 30 elderly residents initially resided in the institution, known as Lar Vovó Maris. Three were taken to the Emergency Care Unit (UPA) due to critical health conditions, while the others were found to be vulnerable due to the irregularities found on the premises. The institution's owner was arrested and transferred to the Central Flagrancy Station.
The city stated that the same nursing home was previously shut down in March by Health Surveillance. Despite the closure order, the establishment resumed operations without a valid license.
During this Wednesday's inspection, inspectors found various irregularities, unsanitary conditions, and signs of inhumane living conditions. Rat droppings and spoiled food were observed, and the process is still under investigation by the Public Ministry and Civil Police.
The Civil Police also reported the discovery of expired medications and the seizure of an elderly resident's benefit card, which the arrestee, a 42-year-old man, was detained for improper appropriation. Additionally, he was detained for allegedly mistreating the elderly residents.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the death of two elderly residents earlier, one due to a lack of medical attention after a fall and another due to complications with an expired pacemaker. There is no evidence to suggest cruelty to animals in this case.
- The irregularities found in Lar Vovó Maris extend beyond health and wellness, as expired medications were discovered, which is a concerning aspect of fitness-and-exercise and mental-health management for the elderly residents.
- The ongoing investigation by the Public Ministry and Civil Police has unearthed significant issues related to medical-conditions care, as rat droppings, unsanitary conditions, and signs of inhumane living conditions were observed, posing potential risks to the elderly residents' health.
- In light of the critical health conditions that prompted three residents to be admitted to the Emergency Care Unit, it is crucial for long-term care institutions, such as Lar Vovó Maris, to prioritize health-and-wellness and mental-health services for their residents, ensuring they live in an environment that supports their overall well-being.
