COLESVILLE, Md. — Maryland lawmakers are stepping in after 53 senior citizens were given just 45 days to vacate their memory care facility. The Landing for Silver Spring was abruptly sold, and families were facing eviction by November 15. Now, a state oversight committee is taking up the issue.
Since getting that bombshell news of the sale during a meeting on October 2, families have rushed to relocate their loved ones. According to Montgomery County officials, 53 residents lived at The Landing and as of Wednesday, all but eight have been relocated.
June McAbee, 91, is losing her memory but the former schoolteacher still loves to paint and play piano.
“She was very happy, she was engaged with the residents," said her daughter Lynne Sheller.
That’s why Sheller was devastated to learn from managers that The Landing at Silver Spring was sold, and residents had 45 days to move out. But with the help of staff, Sheller's been able to find her mom a new place to get the care she deserves.
“So, I did tell her on Monday that we were moving to a new facility, and she was good with that. I said, 'They're going to close, and we found a better place for you' and she said, 'Well let's go see it.' So, I'm taking her today to see the new facility," said Sheller.
Leisure Care, the company that operates The Landing sold the building to Omega HealthCare Investors and CommuniCare. The new companies are planning a year-long renovation to convert the property into a skilled nursing facility. Leisure Care VP Michael Juno said the announcement was made with “heavy hearts” and managers told residents “As soon as they were legally allowed.”
“This issue will be a priority in the 2024 session,” said State Delegate Bonnie Cullison Vice Chair of the Health and Government Operations Committee.
Current state law allows a facility to notify residents of a sale with at least 45 days’ notice. Delegate Cullison, who represents District 19 of Montgomery County, said lawmakers will move to make that at least 90 days.
“There should be some accountability, at least fines or something because you know facilities like this are still popping up. We’re moving mom, will this happen to us again?” Sheller asked. “At least be transparent with us and they were not and that’s the thing that hurts the most.”
"I hope when these guys come up for licensing the licensing board considers their treatment of these patients in determining whether or not to grant them a licensee,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich during his weekly briefing Wednesday.
In the meantime, the County Executive promises to continue to support families and find homes for the remaining residents.