A government-commissioned report on conditions in two private long-term care homes in Montreal has revealed widespread mistreatment of residents in both facilities.

Les Residences Floralies sites in the Lachine and LaSalle areas were also placed under supervision on September 1 amid allegations of neglect.

A report by a retired Ministry of Health employee on Thursday alleged "violations in all forms" at the residences, including violence and neglect by staff and lack of treatment and services.

Residents were also found to suffer from untreated ulcers, dehydration, and signs of violence such as bruises, and the report found that little was done to prevent falls or address dementia-related behaviors.

Investigator Michel Delamar also concluded that poor care and infection control may have exacerbated last summer's streptococcal A outbreak which claimed six lives.

Sonia Bélanger, Minister for Seniors, promised to work on implementing Delamar’s 21 recommendations and improving the quality of care for all residents in the long-term care system. She said in a statement, "What we saw at Floralies was not the treatment our seniors deserve."

Additionally, she said changes are underway across the network, including adding more inspectors, and said her administration will follow up to ensure homes meet standards. She added, "I will not tolerate any form of abuse, especially when it affects seniors."

In the report, dated October 7, Delamar found widespread problems with home management, including lack of qualified staff and poor coordination and planning.

Professional services were also almost non-existent, and the facility lacked programs and policies related to "wound care, use of restraints, weight monitoring, hydration, behaviors related to dementia, pain assessment or end-of-life care," the report said.

His recommendations included setting a comprehensive plan to improve care, including ensuring proper staffing, as well as working closely with residents. He noted that the province also needs to clarify roles and responsibilities of local health authorities and private homes.

While the homes are privately owned, half or more of their beds are occupied by residents covered under an agreement with public health authorities.

In the same regard, the province said portions of the long-term care in the residences were placed under the supervision of local health authorities for 180 days, starting September 1, but this can be extended if necessary.