Officials at the Department of Social Services on Grand Bahama are addressing their role in the care of the elderly after a story broke last week about Ingrid Carey, a resident of the Home Away From Home care facility.  Carey’s granddaughter, Philippa Carey,  went public complaining that Carey’s caretaker, Mervie Knowles had taken possession of her home and gained power of attorney.

Assistant Director of Community Support, Jody Burrows told ZNS News, “we are mandated to go into these homes and conduct our regular visits. However, we are unable to investigate matters that is not reported to us.  We can only investigate what is reported to us.”

Officials say checks are conducted at care facilities on the island including Home Away From Home but their responsibility does not extend to the finances of residents.

Assistant Director of Social Services, Fran Brice said the department rarely receives complaints from the community.  She said, “once or twice we get it pertaining to a person if the children are concerned about the sharing of properties, that kind of thing, but it’s not a common occurrence.”

Burrows appealed to families to remember that seniors are their responsibility. “We are only aware of situations as they are brought to our attention.  We want the community to vigilant as it relates to their seniors.”

The Department of Social Services is assisting with the police investigation of the Ingrid Carey case as requested.