Linda Kincaid Reports: Villa Fontana Under Investigation for Neglect and Elder Abuse

Department of Social Services (DSS) is investigating a myriad of neglect and elder abuse allegations at Villa Fontana.

The San Jose, CA residential care facility for the elderly openly acknowledged they have unlawfully isolated resident Gisela Riordan for over two years. “She doesn’t have the right to make decisions for herself,” said Jennifer Lan of Villa Fontana. Ms. Lan would not acknowledge that the Personal Rights, posted at left, apply to all residents.

Gisela has rarely been allowed visitors or phone calls since being placed at Villa Fontana in 2010. She has been allowed to see her son, Marcus Riordan, only three times in two years.

DSS is investigating the following complaints concerning Gisela’s care.
•Resident not allowed visitors
•Resident not allowed phone calls
•Resident lost substantial weight
•Resident may not receive adequate food
•Resident’s dentures are missing
•Resident’s eyeglasses need replaced
•Resident’s hearing aid needs calibrated
•Resident is denied access to hearing aid
•Resident has inadequate furniture in her bedroom (no chair or table)
•Resident has damaged furniture in her bedroom (dresser drawer broken)
•Resident has inadequate lighting in her bedroom
•Resident has no towels in her bathroom

On May 10, 2012 DSS visited Villa Fontana and began their investigation. Regulations require DSS respond to the complaints within ten days. Citations may or may not be issued, depending on cooperation from the facility.

Source:
Villa Fontana Under Investigation for Neglect and Elder Abuse

See Also:
Elder Abuse - Isolation by Public County Guardian in Santa Clara County, CA

NASGA - Gisela, California Victim