Ways You Can Prevent California Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
| November 17th, 2014
When our loved ones are no longer able to care for themselves, we often turn to nursing homes or long-term care facilities as an option to ensure they receive the attention they need on a daily basis. Too often though, California nursing home abuse and neglect are reported at these facilities. Statistics from the National Center for Elder Abuse show as many as one-third of all elderly Americans will become victims of abuse this year. The problem is especially evident in our state, considering an article from the Fresno Bee exposed several of California’s largest nursing homes as having major compliance issues. Even more disturbing is the lack of industry transparency that would make the public aware of such issues. One of the major reasons these issues exist is because there is no agency enforcing the rules and regulations that are placed on nursing home facilities. This becomes even more complicated when companies create different entities and organizations to create a mask of red tape over their identity. So what can you do to ensure the health and safety of your loved one in a nursing home? The California personal injury attorneys with Berg Injury Lawyers suggest:- Be Present Often- Visiting your loved one on a routine basis will reduce the chances of them becoming a victim of abuse or neglect.
- Ask Plenty of Questions- Getting information about your loved one’s care from nurses, doctors, and management will help you assess if your loved one’s well-being is being protected.
- Be Aware of Injuries- Bruises, lacerations, or pressure ulcers—otherwise known as bedsores—are often clear indicators of problems in a patient’s care.
- Report Any Issues- If you find problems in your loved one’s care, never hesitate to contact the proper authorities to report the issue. This helps to ensure others don’t have to go through a similar situation.
