Is Your Loved One’s Nursing Home Negligent?

Taking care of our elderly loved ones is a critical responsibility. Sometimes, of course, medical or other issues crop up that makes caring for them ourselves problematic or practically impossible. It’s at that point we hand them over to a facility we believe can take care of them. While most nursing homes are competently managed places where your loved one can still preserve their dignity in advancing age there are some that may not take proper care with their patients. Here are some things to look for if you suspect a neglectful nursing home.

Signs in Your Loved Ones

Take a look at your loved ones and have a conversation with them if possible. Some may not be able to communicate effectively so look for other signs of possible neglect or abuse. Look for unusual weight loss, malnutrition, or dehydration. Are bed sores present? They can be a sure sign the patient isn’t being seen regularly. Look for bruising, scars, or signs of restraint like rope marks on their wrists. If they’ve been left dirty or unbathed for what seems to be a long period or they’re unsuitably covered for the temperature or weather these can also be clear indicators of neglect. Their behaviour could have meaning as well – if they appear to have symptoms that mimic dementia such as rocking or mumbling to themselves it could be a sign of emotional abuse

Signs in the Facility

If you suspect issues with the facility keep an eye out for missing cash or items. Pay attention to how well the caregivers treat your loved one – if they show belittling or threatening behaviour or perhaps refuse to let you see your loved one alone – ask why and make your displeasure known. Sometimes caregivers may be doing their best but the facility itself is hobbling their efforts. If the staff seems poorly trained, insufficiently paid, or without the requisite numbers to help the number of residents properly that’s a recipe for neglect.

If, after investigating, you feel your loved one is in the care of a negligent nursing home you should take action to help. If it’s within your power to remove them from the facility you should do so – and if it is another person’s responsibility they should be informed as soon as possible. The quicker your loved one is free of neglect or abuse, the better. Make sure to inform the proper authorities as well. In order to seek restitution for the pain and anguish they inflicted on your loved one should also legal help experienced in matters such as these. Contact Conte & Associates at 1-877-614-0008.  Based in Vaughan, Conte & Associates works with clients in Vaughan and in the surrounding cities of: Thornhill, Woodbridge, Concord, Kleinberg, Maple and Richmond Hill.

 

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