Courtyard Not Maintained in Clean and Safe Condition
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain the courtyard in a clean and safe condition, as evidenced by multiple interviews, observations, and record reviews. Residents and staff reported limited use of the courtyard due to broken and dirty furniture, uneven ground, and malfunctioning doors. The Activities Director stated that outdoor activities had not been conducted this year because of these issues, and a grievance regarding the patio chairs had been submitted. Resident Council records also indicated requests for improved access and furniture in the outdoor area. Observations confirmed the presence of broken dining room chairs, dirty tables, trash, garden supplies covered in dust and cobwebs, and overgrown garden boxes and walkways. Additionally, there were structural issues such as a hole in the roof, missing shingles, a fallen gutter, and wood debris on the ground. Staff interviews revealed a lack of awareness regarding some of the hazards, such as the hole in the roof, and confirmed that residents only accessed the courtyard under supervision. The outside door's keypad was broken, requiring staff assistance for re-entry. The courtyard's condition, including blocked walkways, empty bird feeders, and unsafe furniture, had the potential to affect all 72 residents in the facility by limiting their access to a safe and clean outdoor environment.