Reader's view: Edgewood’s rosy picture is far from the truth

A quote from Edgewood Management CEO Phil Gisi, in the March 8 News Tribune article, “Edgewood CEO: Staff handled rape case properly,” prompted me to respond. “We have learned things,” Gisi said. “We have learned that sometimes you have to assume the worst can happen.”
My parents lived at Edgewood Vista in 2013. When you visit the facility, you are painted a rosy picture. Residents are promised quality medical care, prompt attention, regular housekeeping, nutritious meals and a community that cares. The reality seemed different to me.  My parents often said they felt as though they were treated like they were not fully aware adults.
Gisi’s statement, “The only way we would have explained what happened, or tried to explain what happened, was if there was a risk to the residents,” revealed a paternalistic attitude. When management abruptly canceled a meeting regarding the incident, it displayed an attitude of disregard for adults. They have a right to discuss the implications. The fact is this incident is not just about the rape; it is also about the response by Edgewood management.
Residents should be treated as adults. A caring facility would inform residents that an alleged crime occurred in their community. Facility officials would demonstrate the steps taken to assure it should not happen again. They would make it clear they have no tolerance for abuse. They would promptly remove an employee who made grave errors in judgment. They would respect elders and their families by disclosing information that allows them to make informed decisions about their safety as residents of Edgewood Vista.
Yes, Mr. Gisi, we have learned things. Unfortunately for some of us, it is a little too late.
Kelly D. Boedigheimer
Duluth