Any time you place a loved one into a nursing home or medical facility, it’s important for you to keep an eye on how they’re treated. Though it would not seem like they would be at risk in a nursing home, the reality is that many problems can arise, including neglect.
Fortunately, there are red flags and warning signs that you can look for. Here are several that you may notice if your loved one is being neglected.
<h2>Nursing home neglect comes with red flags</h2>
Some of the signs of nursing home neglect may include:
- Sudden losses in weight from not eating regularly
- A loss of interest in normal activities
- Avoidance behavior
- Lack of communication between yourself, your loved one and the facility
- Bedsores
- Dehydration/malnourishment
- The use of sedation to “chemically restrain” your loved one
- Unsanitary conditions
- Unexplained falls or other injuries
- Frequent illnesses
- Sudden death
Nursing homes and their staff members have an obligation to keep patients safe from harm. They should be following a routine and making sure your loved one:
- Eats regularly and gets the proper nutrition
- Drinks water and beverages throughout the day. If not, then they should ensure hydration through other means
- Receives adequate help to and from the bed to a chair, wheelchair, the bathroom or other location
- Receives prompt medical care in the case of a fall, illness or injury
Most people don’t expect a nursing home to make mistakes or neglect their loved ones, but those situations do happen. If they happen to your family member, you may want to look into your legal options and to take action to remove them from the facility.
