Health & Safety in Nursing Homes

Elderly residents of nursing homes are a vulnerable and fragile population. Their limited physical and mental capabilities often make them a target for neglect and abuse. According to the U.S. General Accounting Office's report on nursing home abuse, federal and state regulations are not sufficient to protect the rights and safety of aging loved ones.

Falling

• According to the Centers for Disease Control, 75 percent of nursing home residents are reported falling each year, and about 1,800 die due to injuries stemming from those falls. However, not every fall in a nursing home can be attributed to abuse or neglect.

Mental Health

• Residents of nursing homes are frequently confused, disoriented or suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's. These mental health issues can cause depression and anxiety in residents who are unsure of their surroundings. A caring staff and visits from loved ones can help them adjust and overcome mental health challenges during their time at the nursing home.

Resident Abuse

• Abuse of nursing home residents is common. Because abuse charges are difficult to prosecute, perpetrators are not always held responsible for their actions. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, as many as one in five residents are abused, but only half of those are reported. Abuse may appear in many forms, including neglect, hitting, slapping and sexual abuse.

Prevention

• Preventing the abuse of nursing home residents begins with proper investigation. Before choosing a nursing home, question the administration about their hiring process. Ask if they run criminal background checks on potential employees, and inquire about their methods for handling and reporting abuse. Most important, ask about the safeguards they have in place to prevent abuse and neglect.

  Have a physical presence in the nursing home. Frequent visits and involvement with the staff will increase the accountability of those who care for your loved one.

Report Abuse

• Be aware of the signs of abuse. While not every bump, scrape or scratch is the result of an abusive staff member, follow up when you see signs of injury. If you suspect abuse, file a complaint with the administration of the facility and contact the National Center on Elder Abuse.