We visited and provided caregiving support to a elderly care facilities facing a severe staff shortage due to the heavy rain disaster. We had previously supported this facility following the earthquake, so we were already acquainted with the staff. They were dedicated to their work as always, but their exhaustion was palpable.
The facility accommodates 80 residents, 4 short-stay users, and 3 evacuees with only about 40 staff members. The dispatch of support personnel from other organizations, which they had before, has ended. They are now providing care with the bare minimum number of staff. Some staff members, even those personally affected by the disaster, have returned from their leave to help.
Our team focused on alleviating the burden on the staff by assisting with meals, bathing, and other tasks. The facility is large, and even moving around requires significant time and effort. We were truly humbled by the dedication of the staff who were committed to providing personalized care to each resident despite being so short-staffed.
This visit made us realize that the staff is approaching their physical and mental limits. Many people in the disaster area are struggling to cope with unseen burdens. It is crucial that we continue to listen to their voices and provide long-term support.
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| HuMA paramedic providing meal assistance. A smile blooms on the face of the resident. | HuMA nurse providing bathing assistance. |