According to Statista, as of July 2024, there were a total of 14,827 certified nursing facilities in the United States. The number of nursing homes slowly decreased during the recorded time period. The U.S. has more than 55.8 million adults aged 65 and up. About 1.3 million of them live in nursing homes, which is 2.3% of the total elderly population.
As our loved ones age, it can be a difficult and emotional decision to place them in a nursing home. Unfortunately, abuse and neglect in nursing homes happen more often than most people think. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), a survey of 452 family members of nursing home residents revealed that 24.3% had experienced at least one incident of physical abuse in a nursing home.
According to https://pleasantlaw.com/, awareness and action help prevent nursing home abuse and neglect.
This article will teach you some of the ways to protect your loved ones from being abused and neglected in a nursing home.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of Abuse and Neglect
Most families do not realize the subtle signs of nursing home abuse and neglect until it is too late. Pay attention to the physical appearance and behavior of your loved one. Unexplained bruises, weight loss, or poor hygiene can all indicate neglect or mistreatment.
Other warning signs include changes in behavior, such as appearing withdrawn, anxious, or fearful in the presence of specific staff members. Observe any changes in how your loved ones talk. Confusion or reluctance to discuss their care can signal problems. Frequent hospitalizations or injuries should be a cause for concern.
Document what happens during visitations and check for signs of inadequate supervision or even unsafe living conditions. See to it that adequate nursing home security measures are in place, such as proper staffing ratios and surveillance systems. These can help prevent abuse and neglect.
Recognizing these warning signs helps you take action to protect your loved one and guarantee they receive appropriate care.
Communicating Effectively With Nursing Home Staff
Effective communication with nursing home staff would result in better care for your loved ones at the nursing home. If there are issues with your loved one’s care, clearly and politely express your concerns. You can discuss specific examples related to his/her preferences or observed “issues.”
Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you have anything to clarify and/or confirm. Keep documented records of all conversations complete with dates and names of staff members for tracking important discussions.
Check in frequently with staff and ask for a meeting if necessary. Building a rapport helps the staff to feel more connected to your loved one and creates an avenue for better communication.
Being patient helps foster a cooperative environment for your loved one’s well-being.
Advocating for Your Loved One’s Rights and Needs
Visit your loved one regularly, observe the care given to him or her, and keep track of behavior or treatment discrepancies. If you notice any signs of neglect or abuse, report your concerns to the nursing home’s staff or management.
Learn the rights of the residents and do not hesitate to inquire how the staff plans to take care of your loved one. Assess the nursing home if they can provide proper medical attention, nutrition, and emotional support.
In case of complaints, you can join other families to build a stronger case.
Understanding Legal Protections Against Abuse
If you have a loved one in a nursing home, it is critical that you understand the legal protections that are available to prevent abuse and protect them. There are many laws that have been designed to guarantee the rights and safety of nursing home residents. The Older Americans
Act and state-specific laws are some of these laws.
All facilities have requirements for the standard of care and a safe environment. If you suspect a breach of the standard of care, you can contact state agencies or local ombudsman programs to investigate the facility.
Filing a lawsuit against the nursing home is always an option.
Exploring Alternative Care Options if Necessary
If you are concerned about sending your loved one to a nursing home, there are some alternatives available.
You can look for in-home care services that help elderly people perform daily activities without removing them from their homes. An adult day care center is another option. The center will provide participants with social interaction and scheduled activities.
Assisted living facilities are also available for persons requiring more extensive care and those interested in personal care and independence. Community aid and support groups can provide additional information on alternative care options.
