New procedures at nursing home after death

NAPLES, Fla.- WINK News has learned that the Aristocrat Assisted Living Center in Naples has changed many policies and procedures since August.

That’s when WINK News first reported the death of 90-year-old Robert Bernard.

The Department of Children and Families says Bernard was left outside alone in his wheelchair for 3 hours in 90-plus degree heat.

Brand new investigative reports from DCF and the Agency for Healthcare Administration reveal “the staff simply forgot about him.”

Nurses told investigators Bernard loved to be outside, but his wife says he cried every day because he wanted to go home.

Investigators discovered everyone who used the courtyard was at risk for neglect, illness or injury and  even death because aristocrat failed to have a system in place to monitor residents outside.

One former employee says Bernard’s death wasn’t a surprise.

“When I heard that this gentleman had passed away I said, ‘oh well, obviously they didn’t learn,'” said the former employee.

WINK News has learned the Aristocrat now has new rules limiting each resident’s time outside and protects their skin.

The facility is also properly training staff, always has water outside and has added a bell on the courtyard door.

Local personal injury attorney, Carlos Cavenago says, if you have a loved one in a home the best way to make sure they’re getting the care they need around strangers is to frequently stop by in person.

“Visit at different times, take copious amounts of notes of who is taking care of their loved one,” said Cavenago.

Bernard’s wife’s attorney tells WINK News she may be taking legal action against the assisted living facility.

WINK News reached out to the Aristocrat for comment on this story, but they did not return our call.