After relocating her husband to a care facility, Bailie Smith’s grandmother believed he would be secure. However, within 36 hours of settling into Preston Special Care Home in Saskatoon, William Cone, affectionately known as Lauri, left the premises unnoticed due to his Alzheimer’s condition. Cone, aged 86, walked about eight blocks with a walker, fell, and broke his hip. Despite undergoing surgery at Royal University Hospital on Oct. 13, his health deteriorated rapidly, leading to his passing on Oct. 20.

Operated by the Saskatchewan Health Authority, the care home is under scrutiny following the incident. Cone’s family, particularly his wife Elizabeth Cone, who had been his primary caretaker, expressed immense grief and frustration. They highlighted the lack of proper monitoring and security measures at the facility, emphasizing that the incident was preventable.

Before the unfortunate event, Cone was receiving short-term care at the facility while awaiting a permanent placement. According to Smith, a kitchen renovation led to a door near his room being left open, providing an opportunity for Cone to exit unnoticed. Although the facility had security codes on exit doors, the specific door Cone used lacked monitoring equipment, such as cameras or alarms.

Described as a retired Canada Post worker and actively involved in various community activities, Cone’s family remembers him as a caring and engaged individual. Smith emphasized the need for comprehensive investigations and reforms to prevent similar incidents, advocating for mandatory installation of cameras, patient alarms, and improved door security in care facilities.

The family’s public plea for accountability and reform has prompted discussions with the provincial ombudsman and potential police involvement. The Saskatchewan Health Authority expressed condolences to the family and pledged to review the incident thoroughly, incorporating family perspectives and proposing actions to enhance care services in the future.

Smith urged for increased vigilance in caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s and stressed the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable seniors in care facilities. The family’s decision to speak out aims to raise awareness, promote accountability, and prevent such tragedies affecting others in the future.