Nursing Home Negligence: Falls, Incorrect Prescriptions, Abuse and Poor Nutrition
As our loved ones grow older they become more dependent on others to manage the daily tasks of living. When an individual takes on the responsibility of assisting an elderly person they are referred to as a caregiver. Initially this task is taken on by individual family members, and is often very challenging. I specifically understand the challenges as I am currently the caregiver to my elderly grandmother. It takes love and patience when dealing with the elderly. It is not easy to see loved ones become limited by their own capabilities. As time goes, it usually reaches a point where the average caregiver can no longer facilitate the needs of whom they are to assist. At this point, they are faced with a very difficult decision of whether or not a nursing home is best for their elderly loved one.
This is why I became particularly outraged when I hear of cases involving nursing home negligence. Not all forms of negligence found in nursing homes are apparent to us, and some may even shock you to comprehend. I have been contacted on numerous occasions by families whose loved ones have been dropped or have fallen while at a nursing home often re-injuring themselves, or perhaps suffering newer, even more serious injuries. According to the Center for Disease Control, each year an average nursing home with 100 beds reports 100 to 200 falls. About 1,800 older adults living in nursing homes die each year from fall-related injuries. Those who experience non-fatal falls can suffer injuries, have difficulty getting around and have a reduced quality of life.
Nutrition is another key factor. In fact a panel of nutrition experts has released new definitions for malnutrition that will be universally applicable. McKnights Long-Term Care News & Assisted Living is reporting that these new definitions will help clinicians and healthcare workers identify and treat malnutrition. These are important clarifications considering a 2000 study found that between 25% and 85% of nursing home residents are considered malnourished.
Over medication also has a negative effect on the elderly. Science Daily is reporting that a study shows that newly admitted elderly patients to nursing homes have a higher rate of being prescribed antipsychotic drugs than in previous years. The study found that in 2007, almost one-third of U.S. nursing home residents received antipsychotic drugs. The FDA has issued a warning that there is a great risk of death among older adults with dementia who are taking these agents to control behavioral symptoms. A recent clinical trial has concluded that the adverse effects of atypical antipsychotic drugs have outweighed the benefits of those with Alzheimer's.
This is why it is imperative that nursing homes and care providers are held accountable for their negligence. After all, they are taking care of those who have cared for us. Now, as it comes time to reciprocate, we must take all precautions so they receive the best care possible.
