The recent meeting of the Cámara de Representantes in Puerto Rico on October 3, 2024, highlighted significant concerns regarding the welfare of vulnerable elderly residents in care facilities. A key discussion point revolved around the need for protocols to address the alarming frequency of incidents involving these individuals, particularly regarding their safety and health.

One representative expressed deep concern over the potential risks faced by elderly residents, especially in light of recent cases where individuals were found in distressing conditions shortly after being reported missing. The representative emphasized the urgency of developing a clear protocol to prevent such occurrences, which have raised public anxiety about the care provided to this vulnerable population.

Additionally, the meeting addressed troubling reports about the quality of food being prepared in these facilities. A representative recounted a personal experience of entering a facility and being met with an unpleasant odor, which was later identified as coming from a resident cooking fish. The representative raised alarms about the possibility that food being prepared could be spoiled or in a state of decomposition, posing serious health risks to the residents. This situation was described as a matter of humanity, highlighting the need for social workers and facility staff to be vigilant about food safety and the well-being of the elderly.

The discussions underscored the critical need for improved oversight and protocols in care facilities to ensure the safety and health of elderly residents. The representatives agreed that immediate action is necessary to address these issues and protect one of society's most vulnerable groups.