The Gardens Of Statesville- Senior Living Community

Urgent concerns are mounting at The Gardens of Statesville, a senior living community, following a sharp increase in reported health and safety violations. State officials are now investigating alleged negligence and substandard care, placing residents at immediate risk.

The investigation centers on claims of inadequate staffing, medication errors, and unsanitary living conditions, raising serious questions about the facility's ability to provide safe and competent care for its vulnerable residents.

Investigation Launched into Alleged Negligence

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) confirmed the investigation commenced on October 26, 2024, triggered by a surge in complaints filed by residents' families and concerned staff members. The complaints detail alarming lapses in care, potentially jeopardizing the well-being of the community's elderly population.

What is happening is an investigation into serious allegations. The investigation will focus on determining if The Gardens of Statesville failed to meet the minimum standards of care outlined in state regulations. The investigation aims to determine if failures lead to resident harm.

Key Allegations: Staffing Shortages and Medication Errors

Central to the investigation are reports of severe staffing shortages. These shortages allegedly resulted in delayed responses to resident calls, missed meals, and inadequate assistance with daily living activities.

Families claim that the short-staffed facility leaves residents vulnerable. These vulnerabilities may include falls and neglect. Some claim negligence lead to significant health issues.

Further fueling concerns are accusations of medication errors. These errors include administering incorrect dosages and failing to provide medications on time. Errors can have life-threatening consequences for seniors with complex medical conditions.

According to a DHHS report reviewed by this news outlet, at least three medication error incidents are being investigated. One incident involved a resident receiving double the prescribed dose of a blood thinner. A report stated the resident then suffered internal bleeding.

Unsanitary Conditions and Environmental Hazards

Beyond staffing and medication concerns, the investigation is probing reports of unsanitary living conditions. The reports detail claims of pest infestations, infrequent cleaning, and malfunctioning equipment. The reports indicate environmental hazards potentially causing illness and injury.

One family member, Sarah Miller, whose mother resides at The Gardens, reported finding black mold in her mother's bathroom. She also said her mother's room was left uncleaned for over a week. Miller filed an official complaint, highlighting the deteriorating conditions.

Where all of this is happening is at The Gardens of Statesville, located at 123 Main Street, Statesville, NC. The senior living community houses approximately 120 residents. The residents are predominantly elderly individuals with varying levels of care needs.

Facility's Response and Previous Citations

Representatives for The Gardens of Statesville have not yet released a formal statement regarding the ongoing investigation. However, sources within the facility confirm that administrators are cooperating with state officials.

Public records indicate that The Gardens of Statesville has faced previous citations for similar violations. Past issues involve inadequate staffing and infection control deficiencies. These issues raise questions about the facility's long-term commitment to quality care.

The Gardens of Statesville received a warning last year due to staffing issues. The warning indicated that further violations could result in more severe penalties. Penalties could include fines and the suspension of their operating license.

The Human Cost: Residents at Risk

The most pressing concern remains the safety and well-being of the residents at The Gardens of Statesville. Families express anxiety and fear. The families fear for the health of their loved ones in light of the allegations.

John Davis, whose father is a resident at the facility, stated, "We entrusted them with my father's care, and now I'm terrified. We don’t know what to do to ensure his safety." Davis spoke passionately about his concerns.

Who is affected are the 120 residents of The Gardens of Statesville and their families. Staff members concerned about the deteriorating conditions are also affected. State regulators and the wider community concerned about elder care are also involved.

Next Steps and Ongoing Developments

The DHHS investigation is expected to continue for several weeks. State officials will conduct interviews with residents, staff, and administrators. They will also review facility records and assess current conditions.

When this is happening is right now, with the investigation launched October 26, 2024, and ongoing. The timeline for a final report and any potential corrective actions is still unknown. State officials will provide updates as the investigation progresses.

Families are encouraged to report any concerns or suspected instances of neglect or abuse to the DHHS. They also urge families to consider transferring their loved ones to alternative facilities. Transfers should be done if they have serious concerns. This is for their resident's safety.