I am deeply appreciative of the Independent’s and particularly Nick Welsh’s coverage of news concerning elders. Last week’s article outlining problems with conservators [Voice, Overseeing the Overseers, 8/5/10] gave examples of the need for transparency in this matter.
I have had years of experience in caring for elders in Santa Barbara. Even after an award as one of three caregivers honored by the State of California as “Caregiver of the Year,” I was fired by a well-known fiduciary conservatorship outfit. I had spoken up on behalf of my hundred-year-old client.
Referring to the case of Patricia Rosen in last week’s article: Why should she not have her own life back? She is now quite capable and has healed magnificently. Also, she has strong family support, especially from her son, Bryan. We do need citizen oversight on conservators.
Please watch out for us elders.—Judith Evered, Goleta
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I agree with everything Bryan Rosen said in his article last week. These conservators of the elderly (and disabled) are not doing the job they are supposed to. They are taking advantage of their clients. Some of them are just like sharks, waiting for their prey.—Veronica Birkland, S.B.