Nursing homes are supposed to be a safe haven for our elderly family members, providing them with the care they need. But all too often, neglect can happen, causing real harm to those who depend on these facilities most.
WHO notes that around 1 in 6 adults 60 and older reported having been the victim of abuse in a communal setting. In institutions like nursing homes and long-term care centers, there is a high prevalence of elder abuse. Two out of every three employees report having abused an older person during the last year.
KSDK notes that Delmar Gardens West, a nursing home in St. Louis has been accused of neglect toward a number of its residents. Reports from their family members insist that their loved ones died as a result of neglect in the nursing home. If you live in St. Louis and suspect a loved one is being neglected, here’s what you can do.
Spotting the Signs
Identifying the obvious indications of neglect is the first step. This can include physical signs like bedsores, poor hygiene, or unexplained injuries. Nursing Home Abuse Guide notes that patients with bedsores, also called pressure ulcers, have tissue damage underneath the top layers of their epidermis. Because it results from sustained pressure on a specific section of the body, this can be a sign of nursing home abuse.
Residents may seem malnourished or dehydrated, and their living areas might be dirty. Emotional neglect is trickier to spot, but watch for withdrawal, depression, or sudden changes in behavior.
Medical neglect involves failing to provide proper medical care, like missed medications or untreated injuries. Regular visits and keeping an eye out for these signs are crucial. Talking to other residents and families can also help you spot problems. If you see something, write it down and take pictures – this can be important evidence later.
Getting Help
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) in St. Louis is in charge of investigating complaints against nursing homes. You can file a report online, by phone, or in writing. There’s also the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, which fights for residents’ rights.
The Administration for Community Living notes that LTC Ombudsman programs help residents in long-term care facilities. This includes nursing homes, assisted living, and other care communities. They fix problems with resident health, safety, and rights. They also work to improve the overall care of nursing home residents.
They can help you file a complaint, guide you through the investigation, and offer support. In emergencies, call the police. Reporting neglect can lead to fines or even the nursing home losing its license.
Lawyers Can Help
TorHoerman Law states that a lawyer who specializes in nursing home neglect can make a big difference. They understand the laws in Missouri and can help you get the care your loved one deserves. They can even help you get financial compensation for the harm they suffered. Look for a lawyer with experience in these cases – they’ll know how to navigate the legal system and fight for you.
Moreover, seasoned St. Louis personal injury lawyers can also provide invaluable support by handling the complex paperwork and legal procedures involved in such cases. They can make sure that all evidence is presented correctly, negotiate with insurance companies, and defend you in court.
Their knowledge can help families deal with a lot of the anxiety and confusion that come with these trying times. Through collaboration with an experienced lawyer, families may concentrate on the welfare of their elderly loved ones. The attorney will try to make the nursing home answerable for its deeds.
Finding Support
You may get support from St. Louis organizations at this trying time. Families can get information, advocacy, and support from organizations like the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care, and local AARP chapters.
There are more than 800 local AARP chapters, also known as the American Association of Retired Persons, according to its official website. Each chapter has a unique character and emphasizes different activities. These activities can range from social gatherings and cultural events to outings and trips.
Support groups connect you with others who’ve been through similar situations, and advocacy groups fight for better care in nursing homes overall. These groups can also guide you through the process of finding a better facility if needed.
Many advocate for policy changes to improve state and federal regulations for nursing home care. By participating in these groups, you can gain support for your own situation while also contributing to better care for all residents.
Choosing the Right Place
The best way to avoid neglect is to pick a good nursing home in the first place. Visit different facilities, ask questions about care plans and staff training, and see how the staff interacts with residents. Read online reviews and look at state inspection reports.
Make sure there are enough caregivers and that they have a low turnover rate – that’s a sign of a well-run facility. In a study published by JAMA Network, it was found that understaffing is a major risk factor for neglect. Facilities with higher resident-to-staff ratios are less likely to have cases of abuse.
Lastly, maintain open channels of contact with the assisted living facility. Regularly communicate with the personnel, ask questions, and don’t be reluctant to express concerns. You can make sure your loved one receives the care they need by taking the initiative.
FAQs
Which abuse occurs most frequently in nursing homes?
The most prevalent type of abuse in nursing homes is emotional abuse. This involves insults, threats, or manipulation to control residents. It’s hard to detect, but social withdrawal or depression could be signs.
How do I report nursing home neglect in Missouri?
If you suspect neglect in a Missouri nursing home, report it. Dial 1-800-392-0210 to reach the Missouri Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline. You can also report online or in writing.
How long do most people stay in a nursing home?
The average length of stay in a nursing home varies, but most people stay for short-term rehabilitation after an illness or surgery. Depending on the requirements and health of the resident, long-term stays can last for many years.
In summary, protecting your loved ones in assisted living facilities necessitates a proactive strategy. In addition to being alert to indicators of neglect, maintaining a well-managed facility with open lines of communication is essential.
If you suspect neglect, you have the power to speak out for your loved one’s welfare by informing the authorities. Remember that support groups are there to provide direction and a feeling of solidarity throughout this trying period. You can make sure that your loved one gets the considerate care they deserve by following these steps.
