After Bailie Smith’s grandmother decided to move her husband of almost 60 years into a care home for safety, she had hoped he would be well-cared for. However, just 36 hours after relocating to Preston Special Care Home in Saskatoon, William Cone, affectionately known as Lauri, managed to leave the facility unnoticed on October 11 due to his Alzheimer’s condition.
Smith recounted receiving a call around 10:30 a.m. CST from a concerned citizen who witnessed her grandfather falling outside and promptly alerted them. The care home staff were unaware of his absence until notified by Smith’s grandmother. Cone, 86, wearing only slippers, had traveled about eight blocks with a walker before falling and fracturing his hip. Following surgery at Royal University Hospital on October 13, his health deteriorated rapidly, leading to his passing on October 20.
Operated by the Saskatchewan Health Authority, Preston Special Care Home is now under scrutiny with an official review underway to ascertain the circumstances surrounding Cone’s departure. Smith expressed her grandmother’s devastation, stating that the tragedy could have been averted.
Cone had been admitted to the facility on October 9 for short-term care while awaiting a permanent placement. Smith revealed that a kitchen renovation was ongoing, resulting in a door near Cone’s room being propped open, contrary to safety protocols. Although exit doors were typically secured with pin pads, the door Cone used was left unmonitored without security measures like cameras or alarms.
Described as a retired Canada Post worker, active church member, and involved grandfather, Cone’s family is calling for an investigation and systemic changes to prevent similar incidents. They emphasize the need for mandatory installation of cameras, patient alarms, and secure door locking mechanisms in care facilities to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents.
Despite facing challenges in communication with the care home, the family remains resolute in seeking accountability and advocating for improved care standards to protect elderly residents with cognitive impairments. The Saskatchewan Health Authority has expressed condolences to the family and assured a thorough review process, including family input and recommendations for enhanced care practices.
Smith hopes that sharing their story will raise awareness, prompt accountability, and prevent similar tragedies, urging families to be vigilant in ensuring the safety and well-being of their loved ones in care facilities.
