Millions of elderly individuals in the U.S. reside in nursing homes. Nursing homes are supposed to provide a safe environment and assistance for vulnerable elderly adults who may struggle at home on their own.
For the most part, this is precisely what nursing homes do. Unfortunately, some elderly residents do not receive the care that they are entitled to. Abuse happens, and it can have devastating effects.
Here are some key factors that increase the likelihood of nursing home abuse.
Staffing shortages
It’s no secret that there are staffing shortages in the healthcare and social care industries, including nursing homes. Understaffing puts immense pressure on employees. They may have to work very long hours without any rest breaks.
This is by no means a justification for abuse. There is no justification for abuse. But, it is a factor that increases the likelihood of abuse becoming an issue. The most common causes of abuse from understaffing include staff losing their patience with residents or neglecting their care needs.
Lack of due diligence
Staffing shortages can also result in abuse and neglect because of a lack of training. Nursing homes may look to fill employment gaps quickly by bringing in untrained staff. This means that staff may not receive adequate training or go through security checks to make sure they pose no risk to residents.
These are just some factors that could increase the risk of nursing home abuse. If you suspect that a loved one is facing abuse, look out for the following signs:
- Drastic changes in mood
- Cuts and bruises
- Severe weight loss
Elderly individuals deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. If your family member has suffered nursing home abuse, you can hold the responsible parties to account. Seeking legal guidance will give you a better idea about your options.
