When our loved ones can’t care for themselves, we trust nursing home facilities to provide that care, including nutrition and hydration. Sadly, some nursing homes fall short, putting residents at risk of malnutrition and dehydration. This can lead to serious health problems and even legal issues for the facility.
Spotting the signs of poor nutrition
Malnutrition and dehydration can severely affect an individual’s health, particularly in older adults. It’s crucial to recognize the signs, which include:
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Dry skin and lips
- Confusion or disorientation
- Frequent infections or slow-healing wounds
- Fatigue or weakness
These symptoms can cause or worsen serious health issues, including weakened immune systems, increased hospitalizations and, in severe cases, death. Early detection and interventions can prevent these outcomes, underscoring the importance of vigilant care.
Why these problems happen in nursing homes
Proper nutrition is vital for elderly individuals, especially those with conditions like dementia and those taking medications that affect their appetite. Nursing homes must have qualified, trained staff to address these complex issues.
Unfortunately, sometimes nursing homes fail to provide proper care. Several issues can contribute to these nutritional failures:
- Neglect: Staff might simply ignore residents’ needs.
- Understaffing: When there aren’t enough workers, residents don’t get the attention they need.
- Poor training: Staff may not know how to properly feed or hydrate residents with special needs.
- Cost-cutting: Some facilities cut corners to save money, which hurts resident care.
These issues can lead to legal claims against the nursing home for negligence.
What you can do
It can be overwhelming to think about the possibility of neglect in a nursing home, but families should remember that it is their right to check on and advocate for their loved ones. Watch for signs of malnutrition and dehydration.
If you have concerns, talk to the nursing home staff and administration. If you don’t see improvement, seek legal advice. You have the right to demand proper treatment for your loved one and advocate for the safety and care they deserve.