Juneau -- Senator Jerry Ward (R-Anchorage/Kenai) vowed to find out what's wrong at Alaska's Pioneers Homes and "fix it," following a Senate State Affairs Committee hearing yesterday on the care at Pioneers Homes.

Senator Ward, chairman of the Senate State Affairs Committee, said yesterday's testimony by families of Pioneers Home residents was "disturbing and startling." Family members cited missed medications, poor treatment, and short staffing.

Senator Lyda Green (R-Wasilla), said she was moved to action following contacts by people associated with the Pioneers Homes. "We as legislators began hearing from family members, residents, employees, and physicians who tend the residents of the homes. As these negative responses came in, we knew we had to ask some questions," said Green. "It's very important the Pioneers Homes system runs at a standard that we are all proud of."

"This is one of the things this Legislature will be looking into, and we will be resolving it," said Senator Ward regarding care standards at the Pioneers Homes. "It is not our intent to place blame. Our goal is to fix the problem and give our seniors and elders in Pioneers Homes the care they need and respect they deserve."

Ward said more testimony on the Pioneers Homes will be taken in approximately two weeks, when the Senate State Affairs Committee revisits the matter. At that point, Ward said, the committee will have enough information to implement a plan to correct any problems that may exist at the Pioneers Homes.

"These are our pioneers, our family members and the people who made Alaska the great place it is," said Ward. "We owe them a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid, but at the very least, we can and will take whatever steps are necessary to ensure that they are well cared for and treated with dignity."

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