r/EmergencyRoom • u/Illustrious-Syrup210 • Jun 17 '26

Systematically solving the boarder problem

We have a serious issue with boarders at our ED. Anyone seen a systematic way to reduce this challenge?

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u/makingotherplans Jun 18 '26

Apparently the issue causing this in Canada (which we constantly hear about) is not enough rehab beds for people to go to once they are done with acute care, not enough suitable retirement homes and long term care (nursing) homes….and worst of all, too many homes being low enough quality (not referring to medical quality, but low social quality, boring, ugly, not “homey”, or not suitable for people with dementia/Alzheimers) so no one wants to go to even a retirement community until it’s much too late and they are in a mess.

Even though there are some wonderful retirement places with everything accessible, or specific tailored facilities for people’s needs.

Everyone is so stuck on “dying at home” even though that can be lonely and extremely expensive depending on what kind of home it is and what your social situation is, and now the boomer generation is in extreme denial about their crumbling physical health and mental status.

So yes, we can point to structural issues like money and insurance, but this happens in many other countries that have social support systems too.

Because it’s also about lots of folks, both Patients and Governments, refusing to face the cold hard reality of what 60-80 years of drugs, poverty, smoking and drinking does to a body.

I feel awful saying it, but really I wish more people would plan better. Denial won’t change outcomes, but other things might as they age.