Have you seen the ads on TV? “Governor Hochul, thanks for putting New York families first!”

It’s all about the new proposed budget which funds mental health, Editor housing, etc. but promises for funding have been broken such as salaries for caregivers who are desperately needed by New York’s seniors and the disabled. Promises made to raise the caregivers salaries are not included in the new budget. Where are they, Madame Governor?

New York families can’t hire caregivers who won’t work for the low salaries offered.

Lianne Rittberg is 43 years old and has been a resident of a local nursing home where staffing is inadequate to care for the patients. Lianne needs help with her daily living, turning in bed on a regular basis, help when her catheter is not functioning. With just one or two aides for 43 patients, its no wonder that services are lacking in this nursing home. In fact, one nursing facility in Orange County has already been cited by the Department of Health for inadequate staffing. ”I have invited the Governor to visit me and see what the conditions are in the nursing home,” said Lianne. “She hasn’t responded to me at all. I’m not a second class citizen. I deserve a response. Let her see what my life is like.”

In fact, Lianne has had to stay in the bed for the day when there is no one to help her prepare for the day and get her into her wheelchair.

Another young woman lives in an apartment with her fiance. Both have needs that must be addressed by home health care aides but there is never enough help. “I have slept in my wheelchair because there is no one to help me get ready for bed.” She has also stayed awake all night to make sure her fiancé is breathing when he does not have a night attendant.
The problems are all over New York. Seniors and the disabled are unable to get the care they need. Families first?????