Families who choose to place older adults in nursing homes often do so out of concern. Nursing homes provide around-the-clock support. Unfortunately, not all nursing homes provide adequate support for older adults. Negligence in nursing home facilities can lead to poor outcomes for vulnerable residents.
What are some of the early warning signs that may indicate a loved one is at risk of injury or illness?
1. Unkempt residents
When nursing home residents have dirty, matted hair, unwashed clothing and other signs of hygiene failures, that may be a direct result of inadequate staffing. Many nursing homes struggle with chronic understaffing. Non-emergency services, such as daily hygiene support, are often the first matters to go unattended to when there aren’t enough workers on the clock.
2. Wandering residents
The best nursing homes keep people relatively secure while providing them with opportunities for socialization and personal enrichment. However, especially when residents have memory issues or dementia, allowing them to wander freely through the facility may put them at risk of injury or elopement. When confused residents seem to wander aimlessly through the facility, that can be a warning sign of insufficient care.
3. Absent or hovering workers
If family members cannot find an employee when they have concerns, that may be indicative of chronic understaffing and insufficient resident support. However, the opposite can also be a concern. If workers refuse to leave a resident alone with friends and family members, they may be present to prevent the residents from talking honestly about their experiences.
People concerned about the care of their loved ones in a nursing home may need to speak up for them. If poor nursing home care standards lead to preventable illnesses or injuries, they may need to take legal action.
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