The family of an elderly woman who was injured at a geriatric centre is calling on the province to install surveillance cameras inside group homes for seniors.
Zora Maher has also filed a complaint with the provincial ombuds office about her mother-in-law's injuries.
The incident happened about ten months ago, when Corinne Cordella, 88, was transferred to the Montreal Geriatric Institute.
It was always supposed to be a short-term stay until space was available in another long-term care facility.
However a few weeks after she was admitted, Maher and her family noticed problems with Cordella.
"We started to see the bruises," said Maher.
The family became even more concerned when Cordella broke three ribs.
"We were led to believe that she coughed and broke a rib," said Maher.
Then Cordella cut her elbow, which nobody could explain.
"I am not saying that it was on purpose," said Maher. "It could have been an accident, but t it was a preventable accident."
Cordella's family filed a complaint with the regional health board but was not satisfied with the conclusion.
That report could not find any definitive cause for the injuries, saying Cordella did have a strong cough, and that staff cared for the gash when it was noticed.
The board, and the Institute, said they have no tolerance for abuse, and encouraged family members who are worried about patients to complain without any fear of reprisal.
That's one reason Mahar is speaking out.
"I think they need cameras. I think they need more staff and I think they need more training," she said.
In the meantime, Cordella is now living in a long-term care facility.
The National Assembly is currently studying proposed legislation to regulate the use of cameras in long-term care facilities.
