Selecting a nursing home for a loved one is a decision filled with responsibility and care. When you entrust a loved one to a nursing facility, you expect them to follow certain guidelines that ensure the safety and well-being of their residents. But how do you know if a nursing home is living up to those expectations?
Learn to recognize the signs that may indicate a nursing home is not adhering to guidelines.
Staffing issues
A well-staffed nursing home that retains its employees tends to provide better care. If you notice high staff turnover or that there are too few staff members to care for residents, it might be a sign of underlying issues that could lead to neglect.
Lack of cleanliness and maintenance
Dirty floors, bad odors or unclean dining areas might point to neglect. Broken fixtures or equipment in disrepair may also reflect a lack of attention to safety and comfort.
Changes in your loved one’s behavior or appearance
Monitoring your loved one’s behavior and appearance can provide essential clues to their quality of care. Bruises or other injuries that have no clear explanation could indicate possible neglect or abuse. If your loved one appears unkempt or the staff does not facilitate their personal hygiene, it may be a warning sign of insufficient care.
Complaints and concerns go unaddressed
A nursing home that ignores your complaints or fails to address issues promptly could be hiding deeper problems. Poor communication between staff and family members might also limit collaboration in providing care.
Your role in protecting your loved one is vital. By understanding these signs of possible neglect or abuse, you can hold the nursing home accountable and ensure that your loved one receives the care, comfort and dignity they deserve.