coincidence news that efforts were underway to secure a deputy administrator and geriatric aides for the Somerset elder care facility.

The Royal Gazette yesterday revealed that the Packwood Home is being investigated by the Health Department after allegations of declining care and service. The complaints were laid by Barbara Clemons, daughter of Packwood Home resident 96-year-old Elsie Bascome, and included queries on the staff turnover, the lack of choices on the menu, a night duty nurse and weekly physical therapist.

Mrs. Clemons, now a resident of Dayton, Ohio, voiced her concerns in a letter to chairman of the Packwood Home board of directors, Lady Jackie Swan and copied it to Premier Jennifer Smith.

Both the Premier and Lady Swan have told Mrs. Clemons her concerns will be delved into. Stemming any concerns that the positions advertised yesterday have emerged as a result of the investigation, Mrs. Tucker noted that the post of deputy administrator was not new and that plans had been underway to find a replacement before the investigation began.

Mrs. Tucker also revealed that the home would be advertising for three geriatric aides to join their team.