When an elderly person is placed in others’ care, it is vital that they’re treated with respect. They should be treated like they’re loved family members, not as if they’re disposable or a nuisance.
Unfortunately, some situations arise in nursing homes where elders are neglected. Sometimes, it’s the elders struggling with mental health conditions that are ignored or avoided. Other times, it’s any patient who happens to get the wrong nurse or aide.
Nursing home abuse and elder neglect is a problem in America. It’s unfair for the elderly to have to struggle, yet they do often as a result of the inadequacies of the health care systems open to them. As a family member of an elderly loved one, there are steps you need to take to protect them.
1. Make yourself visible
The first thing you can do is make yourself more visible in the nursing home. You should get to know the people who work there and be willing to take calls or to discuss treatment plans when you visit. Make the time to get to know your loved one’s current health conditions and prepare to stand up for them.
2. Don’t let little things slide
Another tip is not to let little negative events go without a resolution. Did a nurse yell at your loved one or make them uncomfortable? That’s something to bring up right away.
3. Stand your ground
Finally, stand your ground. No matter how difficult your loved one can be, the nursing home is supposed to provide an appropriate standard of care. Don’t let them get away with a lack of care or negligence.
These are some things to think about. Good care does make a difference, and your loved one deserves it.
