More information on what to know before placing your loved one in a Retirement facility... by Robert W. Carter Jr. Attorney at Law SIGNS OF ELDER NEGLECT As our population ages, the number of elder Americans in nursing homes and assisted living facilities continues to soar. Research indicates that one-half of women and one-third of men will eventually need nursing home or assisted living care. By the year 2020, the demand for nursing home and assisted living beds will increase by almost 250%. Nursing homes and assisted living facilities eagerly accept the financial benefits of the "graying of America." They must also accept responsibility when our loved ones do not receive the care, dignity, and respect they deserve. Nursing home and assisted living neglect and abuse take a variety of forms. Pressure ulcers, falls, malnutrition, dehydration, and medication errors are painful, but frequent, reminders that more must be done. Fortunately, increased media scrutiny of nursing homes and assisted living facilities and their business practices has resulted in a heightened awareness of the problem. State and federal governments have also come to the aid of families by enacting laws and regulations designed to ensure that patients receive appropriate care. Unfortunately, media attention and regulatory oversight are poor substitutes for good care. Patients and their families need to recognize the "red flags" of nursing home and assisted living neglect and abuse. If your loved one is a patient in a nursing home or assisted living facility, look carefully for any of the following signs of neglect and abuse: Wandering and Elopement Resident to Resident Assault Pressure Ulcers (Bedsores) Medication Errors Malnutrition and Weight Loss Falls Dehydration Burns, Fires, and Other Hazards Bedrail Entrapment and Asphyxiation..
Posted on: Wed, 18 Sep 2013 21:02:23 +0000
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