Regarding your story "Power of attorney, yet powerless" (April 19): As a former nursing home social worker, I was absolutely appalled that the nursing home allowed a professional guardian to take advantage of a vulnerable adult. There was no valid reason for this occurrence, since Scott Nelson's wife was working to address the cost of his care. Admission to a nursing home is often an unplanned and unexpected experience for families.
Families need support, guidance and information to make it through this experience. They also need a reasonable amount of time to put affairs in order. This is where a nursing home social worker can be a valuable asset to families and their loved ones. Between the two, much can be achieved without the interference of a professional guardian who is not truly serving the needs of nursing home residents and their families.
I hope elected officials read this article and move to tighten up outsiders' ability to take advantage of vulnerable people.
CHRISTINE JERNANDER, SHAKOPEE
