Most people in Kansas City with loved ones in nursing homes put their faith in nursing home staff to keep their loved one safe, especially considering the many health concerns the elderly face these days. However, nursing home abuse and neglect is a reality in many facilities. The following are some signs of neglect and abuse to look out for if you have a loved one in a nursing home.
Issues with basic personal hygiene
Many elderly people cannot dress, bathe themselves or brush their own hair or teeth. If your loved one’s hygiene is lacking, it may be a sign that staff are not caring for these basic needs, leaving your loved one unkempt and causing health issues.
Unclean facilities
Federal regulations require nursing homes to keep their premises safe and clean for residents. A dirty facility could be an indicator of nursing home neglect and can be a breeding ground for infection as well as pose safety risks for residents.
Malnutrition and dehydration
Sometimes residents are either deliberately or negligently deprived of proper nutrition and hydration. Proper nutrition and hydration are essential not just for health, but because some residents may physically or mentally have problems eating and drinking.
Loss of mobility
Many nursing home residents have trouble getting around. Staff are supposed to help residents stay as mobile and active as possible. If your loved one’s mobility declines it may be a sign of nursing home neglect, leading to health issues such as bedsores and infections.
Preventable injuries
Sometimes a nursing home resident who is not getting the help he or she needs is left trying to do things on his or her own, leading to injuries that could have been prevented if they were receiving proper care. Serious injuries could lead to permanent disabilities and a poor quality of life.
Poor mental health
When our loved ones experience nursing home abuse or neglect, they can easily become anxious or depressed. They may be unwilling to talk about their feelings, may grow distant or they may lash out in anger or out of resentment. Any of these changes may indicate your loved one needs help.
If you notice these signs of neglect or abuse, take action
If you notice any of these signs that your loved one is the victim of nursing home neglect or abuse, you may need to take action. If addressing the issue with the facility does not lead to an improvement in care, it may be time to determine whether a personal injury lawsuit is necessary.
