We have the most amazing senior care facilities, the Pioneers Home system. Our family has experience with the Palmer Veterans and Pioneers Home and the Juneau Pioneers Home. The homes provided wonderful care for my parents.
My mother was in Palmer. The staff there was so warm and caring. She passed away over 10 years ago, yet I still think fondly of them often. My father just passed away at the Juneau Home after being a resident for two-and-one-half years. He was not happy about leaving his home and frequently was less than kind to staff, but they were always just the opposite.
They provided great care and were always so kind and professional. They did everything they could to make sure he was safe and comfortable. They addressed his every little complaint with cheer and good humor. They also kept the family involved in every aspect of his care.
While my parents were able to pay, many Alaska seniors depend entirely on Medicare/Medicaid. I am very concerned about what recent legal changes may mean for these facilities. I encourage you to keep in touch and let our Congressional delegation and state officials know that we need to continue to support these facilities.
In a state with a small population like ours, there are no alternatives in most of our communities. We owe it to our seniors to make sure that they can continue to have these options for those who cannot remain in their homes.
Helen Clough
