But This Is My Mother!

The author provides a first-hand account of the story of quiet desperation that is the day-to-day norm in the majority of nursing homes. Her mother spent the last years of her life as a total-care resident in an average-rated nursing home. She was not beaten, neglected, or otherwise abused -- at least not in the sense that would cause headlines to erupt -- yet the indignities and careless behaviours documented here are bone-chilling. Loucks's story is not significant because it is unique; it is significant because it is typical. Anecdotes of personal and professional experiences are woven with information about the nursing home business in general. Loucks offers helpful advice throughout the book to anyone who is feeling cornered by the system.