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Business Insider
2 days ago
- Health
- Business Insider
The 6 best cat hairball remedies in 2025
While small amounts of ingested hair usually pass through a cat's digestive tract without issue, too much hair can ball up and become trapped inside the stomach. In such cases, the cat may eventually cough up the hairball. Treating and preventing hairballs in cats is essential to avoid the risk of a dangerous intestinal obstruction. Regular brushing can help reduce the amount of fur your cat swallows during grooming, but your veterinarian may also recommend using one of the best cat hairball remedies. Hairball remedies are available in several forms, including gels, foods, treats, and supplements. Most contain lubricating ingredients, fiber, or a combination of both to help hairballs move more easily through a cat's digestive system. For this guide, we spoke to two veterinarians and evaluated products based on their ingredients, ease of use, and whether they carry the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) quality seal. Our top pick for a hairball medicine is Tomlyn Laxatone Hairball Remedy Gel, a treatment that works quickly and is recommended by veterinarians. Our top picks for the best cat hairball remedies Best hairball gel overall: Tomlyn Laxatone Hairball Remedy Gel for Cats - See at Chewy Best non-petroleum hairball gel: Nutri-Vet Hairball Paw Gel - See at Chewy Best hairball gel overall Lubricant-based gels are among the best cat hairball remedies because they are the most effective at treating and preventing hairballs. Hairball gels use ingredients like white petroleum, mineral oil, or other oils to gently help hair pass through your cat's digestive tract so it can be eliminated through their stool. Our top choice for hairball control gel is Tomlyn Laxatone Hairball Remedy Gel. It carries the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) quality seal. In addition to safely and gently eliminating hairballs, it can prevent their formation in the future. "The Laxatone hairball supplement from Tomlyn, that's been a favorite of mine for a long time," says Dr. Keith Harper, veterinarian and owner of Hayward Veterinary Hospital in California. "I've had the most success with the Laxatone over my career." Tomlyn Laxatone gel provides quick relief with a blend of three gentle lubricants (petrolatum, light mineral oil, and soybean oil) in three different flavored gels: catnip, maple, and tuna. Omega-3, 6, and 9 fatty acids are added to help support skin and coat health. It's easy to give: Simply squeeze a small amount on your cat's nose or paw for them to lick off. Best non-petroleum hairball gel Many hairball gels contain white petrolatum, a semi-solid gel derived from oil and the same ingredient found in Vaseline. Although petrolatum is a safe and effective hairball remedy recommended by veterinarians, some pet owners prefer to avoid petroleum products. Our top pick for a petroleum-free hairball gel is Nutri-Vet Hairball Paw Gel, which uses natural lubricant ingredients to prevent and eliminate hairballs. The gel consists of three natural oils (hydrogenated vegetable oil, soybean oil, and corn oil) plus fiber to provide lubrication and help eliminate and prevent hairballs in adult cats and kittens. The veterinarian-formulated remedy also contains omega-3 fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin — the other non-petroleum hairball gel we considered does not. It's available in chicken and salmon flavors and is easy to give. Just place some of the gel on your cat's paw for them to lick off or squeeze on top of your cat's food. Best hairball treats Hairball control treats are a good option for cats that refuse to take hairball control gels because they don't like the taste. Developed by a veterinarian for hairball prevention, Feline Greenies Smartbites are our top choice for hairball control treats because they contain two effective ingredients: petrolatum and fiber. Smarbites are loaded with chicken-based protein and contain a combination of plant-based fibers and a small amount of petroleum. The added oil helps lubricate the digestive tract to minimize hairball formation and help with digestion. Available in both chicken and tuna flavors, each treat has less than 2 calories. You can feed a 10-pound cat up to 18 treats per day. Best hairball supplement If you're looking for a supplement to promote healthy digestion for hairball prevention, our top pick is Vet's Best Hairball Relief Digestive Aid supplement. It contains three types of ingredients to support digestion and prevent or eliminate hairballs: fiber, probiotics, and multiple natural ingredients. We chose this over VetriScience Hairball Chicken Liver Flavored Soft Chews Hairball Control Supplement for Cats, which only contains fiber. The chews, made from all-natural plant-based ingredients, including marshmallow root, slippery elm bark, and papaya extract, support your cat's digestive system and help prevent hairballs. This supplement carries the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) quality seal. This formula is free from petroleum-based ingredients and comes in a chicken flavor. Each bottle contains 60 tablets to provide your cat a full 30 days of hairball prevention. The chicken-flavored chewable supplements are easy to administer. Simply break the tab into pieces to entice your cat and give them as a treat. Best dry cat food for hairballs Iams ProActive Health Indoor Weight and Hairball Care with Chicken and Turkey This dry adult cat food helps prevent and eliminate hairballs with its added fiber from ground whole grain corn, dried plain beet pulp, and powdered cellulose. Its main protein sources are chicken, chicken byproduct meal, and turkey, and fish oil is a source of omega fatty acids. It contains 30% protein, 13.5% fat, 8.3% fiber, and 302 kcal/cup. Check price at Chewy Check price at Amazon Check price at Petco What we like Contains extra fiber to support digestion Reduces hairballs Helps maintain healthy weight Contains omega-3 and -6 fatty acids for healthy coat and skin Offers complete and balanced nutrition Specifics Flavors:Chicken and turkey, salmon Sizes:3.5 lb. bag, 7 lb. bag, 16 lb. bag Hairball control cat foods contain extra fiber to help prevent or eliminate hairballs. Although the best hairball control cat food is not as effective at eliminating hairballs as gel remedies, they are a great addition to a prevention routine and useful for cats who refuse to take gel remedies. Iams Proactive Health Indoor Weight and Hairball Care is a high-fiber, budget-friendly food. Its fiber blend includes beet pulp to aid in digestion and reduce hairballs. Added omega fatty acids help support a healthy coat and skin, too. Best wet cat food for hairballs Hairball control cat foods contain extra fiber to help prevent or eliminate hairballs. Dry hairball foods may be more effective since they contain more fiber than wet formulations. However, for cats that eat wet food only, Purina Pro Plan Hairball Adult Wet Cat Food is our top recommendation. This wet food has the most fiber of any of the canned hairball cat food formulas we considered. It also contains about 50% more than Purina's popular adult wet food (Complete Essentials Chunky Chicken Entrée) and comes in three flavors: chicken, turkey, salmon, and ocean whitefish and tuna. What to look for in hairball remedies for cats If your cat is throwing up hairballs, make an appointment with your veterinarian. They can recommend which hairball medicine or remedy might be appropriate for your cat. "We simply recommend choosing the remedy that the cat is most likely to accept and eat," Whittenburg says. "Some cats refuse the treats. Some cats don't like the gel. Some cats won't eat the food, or have medical conditions requiring a different diet. All the remedies are similar, but the delivery method is different." Finding which hairball remedy works best for your cat might take some trial and error. Harper says it's possible to overdo it with hairball remedies and recommends trying one remedy at a time. "It could turn into a situation where the cat is not vomiting up hairballs, but it's vomiting up everything else," he says. "One thing at a time would be sufficient to see what works best. Otherwise, you won't know." If the best cat hairball remedies don't seem to be helping, it's time to go back to the vet for a follow-up. "More diagnostics need to be performed to rule out more serious gastrointestinal issues," Whittenburg says. Here are the different types of hairball remedies to consider: Hairball gels: Hairball gels are given daily to eliminate current hairballs or a few times a week to prevent hairballs from forming. Most over-the-counter hairball remedies contain petroleum or mineral oil, which provide lubrication to help move the hair through your cat's digestive system. "These products are not absorbed into the cat's gastrointestinal system and will pass right through, so there is no danger posed to the cat's health," Whittenburg says, emphasizing that all hairball products should be given according to the directions on the label. However, regular grooming is always the first line of defense for avoiding hairballs. Hairball food: Specially formulated hairball diets contain extra fiber to support digestive health and help push hair through the digestive tract. Both dry and wet hairball diets are available. Hairball foods are complete and balanced and intended to be used as your cat's regular diet. Hairball treats: Like hairball food, hairball treats usually contain fiber. Some also contain lubricating ingredients like petroleum or other oils. Treats are typically given daily — follow the recommendations on the package. Hairball supplements: Hairball supplements are not intended to eliminate hairballs that your cat currently has, but they contain natural ingredients to support digestive health and help prevent future hairballs from forming. How we selected the best cat hairball remedies We researched various gels, pills, treats, and foods to bring you our top picks for the best cat hairball remedies. Products that carry the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) quality seal are rated higher than those that do not. NASC-certified products pass a comprehensive third-party audit and maintain ongoing compliance with rigorous NASC quality requirements. For additional expertise, we interviewed two veterinarians for advice about preventing and treating hairballs in cats. Although the information they shared contributed to our product selection, our veterinary experts did not specifically endorse any of the products included in this guide, unless explicitly stated. Cat hairball FAQs Why do cats get hairballs? Cats inadvertently develop hairballs when they groom themselves. "When a cat grooms, they swallow some of the loose hair from their coat," says Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, veterinarian and owner of Kingsgate Animal Hospital in Lubbock, Texas. "Cats are especially prone to ingesting loose hair because they have spikes on their tongues called lingual papillae. The hair becomes caught in the spikes, and the cat then swallows it." Since cats cannot digest hair, it must pass through the digestive system and come out in the cat's stool. However, sometimes hair becomes trapped in the stomach, creating a hairball. Is it normal for cats to throw up hairballs? All cats can develop the occasional hairball. Long-haired cats are especially prone to them. If your cat gets a hairball occasionally, it's usually not cause for alarm. But if your cat is throwing up hairballs frequently, it needs to be addressed. "Once a month normally is not as big of a deal, once a week is a little bit too much," Harper says. "When people tell me that their cat vomits every day or every week, it's a problem." Can hairballs be dangerous? Cats often vomit up hairballs — what some people call "coughing up" hairballs — but if hair becomes lodged in the small intestine, it can cause a life-threatening obstruction, which could require surgery. "A cat that is vomiting or retching, lethargic, or does not want to eat may have an obstruction from a hairball," Whittenburg says. "Defecating does not rule out a hairball, as feces are stored in the colon and intestinal obstructions occur in the small intestine." What should you do if your cat is throwing up hairballs? It's important to make an appointment to see your veterinarian if you suspect your cat is having an issue with hairballs. Harper says that cats that get frequent hairballs may have some kind of underlying skin condition causing them to over-groom themselves and, as a result, develop hairballs. Red rashes or areas with very short hair or no hair at all are all cause for concern and should be shared with your veterinarian, explains Harper. After checking your cat for other health concerns, your vet can discuss the best ways to address your cat's hairballs. These include increasing brushing with one of the best cat brushes to reduce how much hair your cat swallows while self-grooming and using one or more hairball remedies, such as a hairball gel, food, treat, or supplement. How can you prevent hairballs? According to Whittenburg, the best way to reduce hairballs is through daily brushing. "Removing the hair before the cat has a chance to swallow it works wonders," she says. Cats with recurrent severe issues can also benefit from shaving, but other measures, like hairball food and treatments, may still be necessary.
Time Business News
6 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
The Ultimate Guide to Commercial Scaffolding in Bolton for Safe and Efficient Builds
When it comes to construction projects, time, safety, and precision are everything — especially in commercial developments. Whether you're erecting a multi-storey office building, carrying out extensive renovations, or working on retail units, scaffolding plays a critical role in ensuring that work is carried out efficiently and safely. That's where Commercial Scaffolding in Bolton comes into play. By investing in the right scaffolding services, your project can stay on schedule, meet safety standards, and reduce long-term costs. Unlike residential jobs, commercial construction involves more complex structures, higher elevations, and stricter safety protocols. From initial planning to final execution, every phase demands a strong, reliable support system. That's exactly what high-quality scaffolding provides — a framework that ensures your workforce can operate securely at height, while also maintaining structural integrity. Cutting corners with your scaffolding setup can lead to site delays, injuries, or worse — project shutdowns. Commercial sites are often busy with multiple contractors, heavy machinery, and time-sensitive deliveries. Poor scaffolding can disrupt this delicate ecosystem and compromise worker safety. Every town has its own set of building regulations, terrain challenges, and architectural styles — and Bolton is no different. Commercial projects here benefit greatly from local providers who understand regional compliance, urban zoning laws, and weather-related structural adjustments. Working with a Bolton-based scaffolding company means quicker site evaluations, better adaptation to local conditions, and faster emergency response. With Commercial Scaffolding in Bolton, you gain an edge through tailored services and regional expertise. Choosing the right scaffolding company is not just about availability or pricing — it's about finding a service that meets the scale and complexity of your commercial project. Always check for certifications like CHAS, SMAS, or affiliations with the NASC. These confirm that the company meets the highest standards of safety and workmanship. One size doesn't fit all in commercial construction. Whether you're working on a shopping complex, hotel, or public sector building, the scaffolding system should be engineered to suit your structure. Commercial scaffolding needs to support heavy tools, building materials, and teams working at multiple levels. Check that the service can accommodate your project's scale without compromising on safety. Opting for a local provider isn't just convenient — it's smart business. Bolton has a thriving commercial sector, and its leading scaffolding companies have grown to meet the unique demands of the area. Because Bolton-based scaffolders are close by, setup and dismantling times are reduced, helping you stick to tight construction timelines. Local companies mean lower travel and transport charges, which can significantly reduce your overall scaffolding costs. If issues arise during the build, you need fast support. Local providers can quickly send specialists to inspect and adjust your scaffolding system as needed. With so many providers claiming to be the best, how do you separate the pros from the amateurs? Look beyond the brochure. A reputable company will offer pre-project consultations, including a detailed site assessment. This not only helps identify risks but also allows the scaffolding system to be customized for your specific build. Avoid providers who can't give you a full cost breakdown. You should know exactly what you're paying for — from equipment rental and transport to labor and safety inspections. Ask for references or view case studies on past projects. A trustworthy scaffolding provider will proudly showcase their work on commercial builds similar to yours. In commercial builds, legal compliance and risk management go hand in hand. Properly erected scaffolding helps you meet HSE regulations, lowers the chance of workplace injuries, and reduces insurance liabilities. Your provider should conduct regular inspections and offer maintenance services throughout the duration of the build. From tightening connections to weatherproofing materials, this vigilance is critical to long-term safety. Among the many providers in the area, Fisher Scaffolding has earned a reputation for delivering dependable, cost-effective, and safety-first scaffolding solutions. Their team is well-versed in both small-scale and large-scale commercial projects, and they bring years of experience navigating Bolton's regulatory and logistical landscape. When it comes to commercial construction, success depends on structure — and that begins with scaffolding. Choosing the right Commercial Scaffolding in Bolton isn't just about access; it's about ensuring your team works safely, efficiently, and without delay. From customized builds and certified materials to expert planning and responsive service, a high-quality scaffolding system transforms how you build. For Bolton-based businesses that want to partner with professionals who value safety, precision, and accountability, Fisher Scaffolding is a top-tier choice. With a track record of excellence and a deep understanding of the local construction environment, they provide the solid foundation your commercial project needs to thrive. Build smarter. Build safer. Build with confidence. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
22-07-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
How to Find Reliable and Affordable Scaffolding Services in Bolton
If you're preparing for a construction project, renovation, or property maintenance task, finding trustworthy scaffolding services is non-negotiable. Whether you're dealing with a new commercial build or refurbishing a historic property, having the right support system in place ensures your project runs smoothly and safely. For businesses working in nearby regions, understanding the scope and value of Commercial Scaffolding in Tameside can be a game-changer when sourcing reliable, cost-effective services in Bolton. Quality scaffolding is more than just metal poles and planks—it's about worker safety, efficiency, and compliance with UK construction regulations. Subpar or poorly installed scaffolding can lead to project delays, fines, or worse—accidents that put lives at risk. While it's tempting to go with the cheapest quote, unregulated or uninsured scaffolding companies can leave you exposed to financial and legal risks. Investing in safety saves money and protects your reputation in the long run. Any reputable scaffolding firm should be accredited by relevant safety bodies like CHAS, CISRS, or NASC. These certifications prove a provider adheres to national safety guidelines and uses trained personnel for every job. From the initial site assessment to scaffold removal, clear communication ensures there are no surprises. A professional provider will walk you through timelines, access requirements, and safety procedures without ambiguity. While residential scaffolding needs differ from commercial setups, companies familiar with Commercial Scaffolding in Tameside often have the adaptability and technical know-how to handle complex or large-scale builds in Bolton and surrounding areas. Many construction projects in Bolton seek support from scaffolding companies based in Tameside due to their specialized commercial solutions, proximity, and availability. Leveraging services like Commercial Scaffolding in Tameside gives Bolton-based contractors access to scalable, regulation-compliant platforms that ensure efficient workflows and enhanced safety. Proximity for fast setup and removal Competitive rates for commercial contracts Proven experience in industrial and business zones Familiarity with regional planning regulations Delays in construction are costly. Choosing a provider near Bolton or Tameside ensures quick installation, inspection, and any necessary adjustments during the project lifecycle. A local scaffolding company can visit the site frequently, making necessary changes to scaffold designs or access routes based on real-time progress or weather conditions. Working with nearby experts means you can count on consistent updates, emergency call-outs, and personalized service throughout your project. Getting quotes from multiple scaffolding companies is smart—but make sure you're comparing apples to apples. Site inspection and risk assessment Scaffold design and engineering details Erection and dismantling timeline Labour and transportation costs Compliance with local council permit requirements Look for providers that deliver detailed breakdowns rather than vague estimates. Always ask for public liability insurance details. Uninsured companies can leave you financially liable in case of accidents or damage. Depending on where the scaffold will be placed (e.g., public pavements or roads), you may need council permission. Reputable scaffolding companies familiar with Commercial Scaffolding in Tameside will handle the permit process for you. Take the time to check Google reviews, social media testimonials, or request references. Client feedback offers insights into punctuality, service quality, and aftercare. Every business is different. Whether you're managing a warehouse renovation, a shopfront refit, or a multi-storey office build, the right scaffolding setup should be tailored to your specific needs. Scaffolding companies experienced in Commercial Scaffolding in Tameside often provide bespoke solutions like temporary roofing, loading bays, and cantilever structures that suit Bolton's varied commercial landscape. Long-term builds require ongoing monitoring and modifications. Choose a provider that offers regular inspections and scalable options for growing project needs. As more construction companies turn toward eco-friendly practices, scaffolding services are also evolving. Look for providers that offer: Recyclable or reusable scaffold materials Fuel-efficient transport fleets Carbon offset programs Not only does this reduce your environmental impact, but it also aligns your project with modern sustainability expectations. Finding a balance between affordability and reliability is key when sourcing scaffolding services in Bolton. By partnering with providers experienced in Commercial Scaffolding in Tameside, you gain access to expert planning, robust safety protocols, and scalable designs tailored to complex commercial builds. When safety, speed, and service matter most, look no further than Fisher Scaffolding. Their commitment to excellence, full compliance with industry standards, and proven experience in commercial scaffolding make them the ideal partner for your next project. Don't compromise—choose smart, local support that delivers results you can build on. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
14-07-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Commercial Scaffolding in Bolton: How to Choose the Right Service for Your Project
Whether you're tackling a large-scale commercial development or renovating an office block, having the right scaffolding solution can be the key to a successful build. When it comes to Commercial Scaffolding in Bolton, choosing the right service provider is not just about safety — it's about efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and peace of mind. In this blog, we'll guide you through essential tips to select the best scaffolding service in Bolton, and why working with an experienced local company matters more than ever. Scaffolding forms the backbone of most construction projects, providing workers with safe access to different levels and ensuring structural stability. But not all scaffolding services are equal. For commercial construction, the scale, complexity, and compliance requirements demand a highly specialized approach. Safety Compliance: Avoid costly accidents and adhere to UK safety regulations. Avoid costly accidents and adhere to UK safety regulations. Efficiency: Speeds up the building process with quick assembly and dismantling. Speeds up the building process with quick assembly and dismantling. Accessibility: Supports complex structures and tricky elevation points. Supports complex structures and tricky elevation points. Customisation: Tailored designs to suit unique architectural layouts. To find the right fit for your commercial project in Bolton, you must look for more than just scaffolding poles and boards. It's about experience, safety credentials, and customer trust. A provider that knows the ins and outs of local regulations, weather conditions, and construction styles is invaluable. Companies with a history of delivering commercial scaffolding in Bolton are better equipped to deal with site-specific challenges. Case studies, testimonials, and portfolio images can tell you a lot about a company. Check if they've handled projects similar to yours. Have they worked on office buildings, retail units, or high-rise developments? Look for memberships in trade bodies like NASC and certifications such as CHAS or SafeContractor. This ensures they follow the best health and safety practices. Knowing what to ask will help you narrow down your options and avoid unnecessary delays or risks. Not every scaffolding service includes custom design. But for commercial projects, this is crucial. Ask if they provide scaffolding design tailored to your building plans. Ensure the company offers public liability insurance and employer liability coverage. This protects you in the event of unforeseen incidents. Delays in scaffolding can stall an entire construction project. Confirm they can meet your timeline without compromising on quality. Scaffold materials should be modern, regularly inspected, and in compliance with UK safety standards. If you're researching dependable providers of commercial scaffolding in Bolton, Fisher Scaffolding is a name that consistently comes up for all the right reasons. With years of industry experience, they offer reliable, safety-first solutions for a wide range of commercial projects. Comprehensive scaffolding services for both short and long-term projects. Expert team with local Bolton knowledge. Fully insured and safety-certified. Transparent pricing with no hidden charges. Strong reputation built on trust and repeat clients. Their familiarity with regional building codes, combined with bespoke solutions, make them an ideal partner for businesses seeking high-quality scaffolding. Choosing the wrong service can cost more than just money—it can delay your project and cause safety issues. Here's what to watch out for: Low quotes often come with hidden costs or poor-quality materials. Always prioritize experience and safety. Read the small print. Ensure the contract includes clear terms for erection, dismantling, insurance, and emergency services. Online reviews and Google ratings can reveal red flags or reinforce a provider's credibility. Look for reviews specific to commercial scaffolding in Bolton. Before you sign any contract, make sure your scaffolding quote includes: Site survey and assessment Custom design (if required) Installation and dismantling timeline Total cost with breakdown Insurance and certification details Whether it's an office complex, warehouse, or retail outlet, commercial scaffolding must adapt to your project's size and scope. Choose a company that offers modular and adjustable systems, along with aftercare services. Your scaffolding provider should accommodate changes without affecting the build timeline. Modular systems, like those provided by commercial scaffolding experts in Bolton, offer better flexibility. The quality of your scaffolding can make or break your construction project. Take the time to research and choose a provider that brings safety, experience, and reliability to the table. If you're in search of expert Commercial Scaffolding in Bolton, local providers with proven expertise offer unmatched value. That's why Fisher Scaffolding is a standout name for any commercial project in Bolton. They combine decades of hands-on experience with a customer-first mindset, giving you the confidence to move forward with your build efficiently and safely. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Otago Daily Times
29-06-2025
- Otago Daily Times
Christchurch woman not the first dementia patient to go missing in NZ this year
By Anna Sargent of RNZ A man whose wife went missing from a rest home while in respite care for dementia last month was horrified to learn of Christchurch woman Elisabeth Nicholls' death. Miles Vercoe said his wife Amy Vercoe disappeared from the Edmund Hillary Retirement Village in Auckland on May 10 after wandering out of a fire escape door and walking for hours, before being found safe by police. Nicholls, 79, had dementia and vanished from Ryman's Margaret Stoddart Retirement Village in Christchurch on June 4, hours after being admitted for respite care. She was found dead at an abandoned property on Gracefield Avenue in the central city last Sunday - just 250m from her home. Ryman said it was "terribly saddened" by the news and would work with Health NZ to look into what happened. Vercoe, speaking out after hearing about Nicholls' death, said his wife could have suffered the same fate had she not been found. "That was an entirely possible outcome of her running away because she has Alzheimer's, she wouldn't know how to get home, how to get back to where she was, and it was late and cold. It was the consequence I was so scared of that night." Vercoe said his wife was diagnosed with Alzheimer's three-and-a-half-years ago. On May 5 she was admitted for respite care at the Edmund Hillary Retirement Village for what was supposed to be a week, to give him a break as her sole caregiver at their home. On her fifth night there he said he got a call from staff about 6pm saying they could not find her. "I told them to call the police. The village is in Stonefields, we live in Ōrākei, she was found in Parnell like three to four hours later, she'd walked. She's still pretty strong and fit. "She must've been walking that whole time, the distance she got and the time. She was just on a pair of sandals, she hurt her feet, she was sore for a few days, but other than that no lasting damage, compared to poor Mrs Nicholls." His wife left the rest home via a fire escape door across the hall from her room, he said. He brought her back home that night. "By the time I got her out of there I just thought, 'Oh, that's me done with them,'" he said. Vercoe said the situation was unacceptable and he lodged a complaint with the Health and Disability Commissioner. A letter the Edmund Hillary Retirement Village sent Vercoe on June 25, following an investigation, said the village had been given incorrect information by the local Health NZ Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC) team about the level of care Amy Vercoe required . NASC confirmed she needed rest home-level care on April 16, the letter said - not dementia-level. "On 16 June, as part of this investigation, our team contacted the NASC team to reconfirm the assessment information regarding Mrs Vercoe's required level of care, which we had received before admission in April. The NASC team confirmed Mrs Vercoe's assessment for rest home-level of care," the letter said. "Later that day, a second email from NASC indicated that Mental Health Services assessed Mrs Vercoe for Older People in March this year, and this assessment recommended that she receive dementia-level of care. I note that this information was not provided to our team before this date." The rest home said having no knowledge of Amy Vercoe's dementia assessment, it was not aware of any need for her to be cared for in its special care unit. "Had we been aware of this, we could have completed the necessary paperwork and admitted Mrs Vercoe, with your agreement, into our Secure Dementia Unit, which would have prevented her from leaving the unit and then the village," the letter said. "As a rest home resident, we respect residents' rights to maintain their independence, and we cannot guarantee that a resident in a rest home unit won't choose to leave via any exit should they wish to. Our review found that the fire escape operated as required. Furthermore, we implemented the proper care strategies for Mrs Vercoe as a rest home resident." Vercoe was under the impression the rest home knew his wife had dementia. "[The rest home] did know that she had dementia because I told them. I had a phone conversation with a nurse and then I had about a half hour pre-admission interview, and then I probably had another 20 minutes with her then on the day of admission. Different people every time I think but I was clear to them verbally, we discussed her condition. "This was after Health NZ had assessed her as having dementia and then a suitable candidate for this type of rest home care. She clearly wasn't suitable to be in that place but I didn't know that, I don't know the ins and outs of what facilities they have, but she was assessed as having stage 5 dementia, not being able to cope and also being eligible for the subsidy for respite care because I'm her sole caregiver." The letter to Vercoe said on April 15 during his initial walk-through of the village a unit coordinator discussed his wife's requirements with him, and Vercoe confirmed she did not wander away from home. "The question they didn't ask me is what would the consequences of her running away be, and the answer would be it could be potentially quite severe if she wasn't caught quickly," Vercoe said. "Maybe there was a communication breakdown between them and the health department, but that's not enough of an excuse in my opinion for them to not know she had dementia, because I told them." Ryman did not comment on Vercoe's specific case, but said if the company received a referral for dementia-level care, the patient would always be placed in secure, specialist dementia care. "Outside of independent retirement living, Ryman offers three levels of care: rest home, hospital, and specialist dementia care. These three levels are offered at Edmund Hillary village," a Ryman spokesperson said. "While our rest homes are supported by 24-hour staffing, rest home level care is not a secure level of care and residents have the independence and freedom to come and go from the unit. "The initial referral for a new respite resident comes from the local division of Health New Zealand who assess their needs, and our contracts with them sets out the level of care to be provided." Ryman did not answer RNZ's question of how many cases there had been in the last year of dementia patients in respite care wandering out of the premises and needing to be searched for. Ryman previously said the Margaret Stoddart Retirement Village, where Elisabeth Nicholls was referred, was not a dementia care facility. Nicholls arrived at the village on the morning of June 4 and was last seen at 6.01pm. "At 6.20pm, team members at the village became aware that Elisabeth may have chosen to leave, on what was her first night at the village, and immediately commenced a search of the premise," Ryman said. "A village search was undertaken including a search of each room, shared space and the rest home grounds, followed by contacting next of kin. As is standard protocol, if a resident is still unable to be located following this process, we then contact police." Following her disappearance, police and Land Search and Rescue volunteers scoured areas of the city to find Nicholls. Pleas were made for the public to check their backyards and anywhere she might have taken refuge. 'Adored' wife In a statement, Nicholls' family said they were very saddened and relieved she had been found. Nicholls' husband of nearly 60 years Gary Nicholls had described her as an adored wife, mother, grandmother, friend and colleague, who had always put other people first. Health New Zealand Te Waipounamu regional commissioner Chiquita Hansen said the agency acknowledged the past few weeks had been a distressing time for Nicholls' loved ones. "We will work with Ryman to look into what happened, which is standard practice, but for now our priority is working with Police and family at this difficult time," she said. The death will be referred to the coroner. RNZ has approached Health NZ for comment on Vercoe's case.
