Some adult children deduct the cost of permanently lost items from the monthly rent. But residents need to be proactive. Most important, valuables don't belong in retirement homes. Even so, it wouldn't hurt to have a small safe or locked box in which to store jewelry or other items easily lost. An advocate will visit, write a report and discuss it with management.
Residents also can call the police department's community policing or crime-prevention unit.
Bringing in the police might be encouragement enough for a retirement home to design a loss-prevention plan. Some police officers will help, even train staff. Before doing anything, however, the resident or adult children need to check the room and laundry thoroughly. Remember, no one wants to be accused of stealing, and crying wolf always backfires. The Ombudsman Program is looking for new volunteers.