Residents should always feel safe and receive proper care in a nursing home or assisted care facility. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Neglect leading to inadequate care of the residents is a common issue among nursing homes and assisted care facilities.
If you think a loved one is not receiving the care and attention they deserve inside a nursing home, always contact a nursing home neglect lawyer in Philadelphia to learn about what you can do to make the situation right.
What is Considered Neglect At a Nursing Home Or Assisted Care Facility?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines neglect as the failure to meet any adult’s basic needs for food, water, shelter, clothing, hygiene, and essential medical care.
Many things could be considered neglect at a nursing home or assisted care facility. First off, anything that leads to a resident feeling unsafe can fall under the neglect category. This usually includes any safety hazards in the facility, such as cords that can easily be tripped on.
Medical neglect and personal hygiene neglect are common and can cause physical and mental issues. Examples of negligence could be not providing proper medication, not properly bathing a resident daily, or not providing residents with clean clothes.
The leading cause of neglect in nursing homes and assisted care facilities is inadequate staffing. In 2020, it was found that 20 percent of nursing homes were understaffed.
What Are the Signs of Neglect?
Residents may not always speak up if they face neglect at their nursing home or assisted care facility. However, there are some warning signs that your loved one may give off if they are being neglected. The obvious signs include:
- Broken bones and other injuries
- Bruises
- Malnutrition
- New/untreated medical conditions
- Dehydration
Not so-obvious signs include:
- Withdraw
- Agitation and aggression
- Fear
- Fatigue and depression
- Missing clothes and items
- Negative attitude or personality change towards the facility and staff
What Can You Do?
Being a victim of neglect at a nursing home or assisted facility can cause emotional, physical, and mental damage. It helps to speak with a lawyer specialized in this area and to make regular visits to talk to your loved one.
