Ohio Department of Aging
03/28/2023 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/28/2023 21:33
Governor DeWine attends Nursing Home Quality and Accountability Task Force listening session in Bowling Green
BOWLING GREEN, Ohio - Governor Mike DeWine was on hand for the latest listening session of the Nursing Home Quality and Accountability Task Force at the Wood County Senior Center today to hear directly from Ohio nursing home residents, their families, and other concerned citizens about the quality of nursing facilities across the region.
Governor DeWine listened as several guests shared emotional stories of their own personal experience or a loved one's experience in nursing homes. The Governor also greeted many people in attendance, thanking them for their participation and their insights.
"The whole idea is to gather ideas and then take them back so we can make very specific recommendations to make our nursing homes better," Governor DeWine said. "Many nursing homes do a phenomenal job. But we still have nursing homes in the state that are not doing a very good job - places where you wouldn't put your mom or your dad. So we have an obligation to really take a look at this and then go to the state Legislature with very specific proposals."
Following the group conversation period, Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) staff facilitated a breakout discussion with those in attendance to gather information from members of the public on their suggestions for solutions.
Over 120 guests attended the event, including residents of local nursing homes, their family members and friends, industry employees, and other interested community members.
The task force was established by Governor Mike DeWine to allow State officials and industry experts to take action on opportunities to improve quality of life and quality of care in Ohio's nursing homes. The in-person listening sessions provide opportunities for task force members to hear directly from nursing home residents and their loved ones about their experiences.
Prior to today's event, the task force hosted four other listening sessions in the following communities:
Listening sessions will be held over the coming weeks in the following communities:
- Nelsonville (April 6)
- Cleveland (April 13)
Click here to register to attend a listening session event.
In addition, task force chair and ODA Director Ursel J. McElroy will participate in a tele-town hall event, hosted by AARP Ohio, on Wednesday, March 29, at 5 p.m., to gather input from Ohioans who are unable to attend the in-person listening sessions.
For more information, visit: aging.ohio.gov/NHtaskforce.
The task force will host regular meetings through May to discuss public input and formulate recommendations. The task force will provide an actionable report of recommendations to Governor DeWine's office before the end of May.
About ODA - The Ohio Department of Aging serves and advocates for the needs of Ohioans age 60 and older, as well as their families, caregivers and communities. Programs include home and community based long-term supports and services, as well as initiatives to promote health and wellness throughout the lifespan. Visit www.aging.ohio.gov.