Trusting the care of your loved one to a nursing home can be a harrowing decision. There may come a time, however, where there are no other options. If this is the case, it’s best to understand the ins and outs of how the facility runs, and to recognize that neglect and abuse can happen – regardless of how the facility appears to function.
Kentucky’s Required Nursing Home Standards
Under the Kentucky Nursing Home Reform Act, nursing homes must provide the following care to all residents:
- Help residents maintain their highest possible level of mental and physical well-being
- Aid residents in maintaining good personal and oral hygiene
- Make sure that all residents are able to eat, bathe, walk, toilet, and communicate effectively – unless medically impossible
- Ensure all residents understand the care they receive and are able to make informed decisions
Types of Nursing Home Neglect
Basic Needs. Basic needs neglect occurs when residents do not have access to reasonable water and food, or a safe and clean environment.
Emotional or Social. Emotional or social neglect occurs when residents are repeatedly left alone, ignored, or yelled at.
Medical. Medical neglect occurs when nursing homes fail to prevent or medicate issues like bed sores, diabetes, infections, mobility concerns, or cognitive diseases. Medication errors may also occur.
Personal Hygiene. Personal hygiene neglect occurs when nursing homes provide inadequate help with residents’ bathing, oral hygiene, laundry, or cleaning.
Signs of Nursing Home Neglect
Unexplained Injuries.
Unexplained injuries like bruises, cuts, or broken bones can be a quick indicator of nursing home neglect. If residents are not receiving the attention they need, they may try to do things for themselves – which could result in accidents and injuries.
Unsanitary Living Conditions.
Nursing homes need to be sanitary, clean facilities at all times. Take a look at the bathrooms, kitchen, and residential rooms to determine if the living conditions meet an acceptable level of clean.
Physical Issues Associated with Lack of Nutrition.
Malnutrition and dehydration are serious issues that can lead to a wrongful death. Weight loss, skin issues, fatigue, and dizziness are all associated with the lack of adequate food and water.
Loss or Lack of Mobility.
Mobility can be a challenge for some residents; however, a good nursing home will make sure all the residents remain as active as physically possible. Bed sores or infections may be indicators of mobility neglect.
Poor Personal Hygiene.
Personal hygiene is incredibly important in a nursing home care facility. Residents may need help getting dressed, bathing, brushing their teeth, combing their hair, and more. If neglected, they may not be capable of completing those necessary tasks. Dental care is often the most neglected personal hygiene in nursing homes.
Neglect in a nursing home is abuse. If you suspect your loved one’s nursing home is not providing the necessary level of care, our dedicated Lexington nursing home abuse and neglect lawyers are here to help you hold them accountable for any and all negligent actions.
