When a crisis occurs, the ripple effect often causes tangential issues. While the original problem causes obvious problems, as the crisis drags on, other problems begin to show themselves. The coronavirus crisis has been no different. When Covid-19 first became an issue, we were concerned about securing assisted living facilities and nursing homes to protect the residents, and protocols were added as we learned more about the virus. But now 6 months into the epidemic, reports are surfacing of some of the fallout of extended lockdowns and isolation in our elder communities. These include depression, dementia, and sadly, increasing reports of nursing home abuse.
Senior citizens and the elderly are clearly the most vulnerable demographic when it comes to the dangers of the coronavirus. In order to keep people safe through these months, preventative lockdowns have been necessary, but a sinister trend has emerged due to the isolation of these residents. Without frequent interaction with their loved ones, seniors are more vulnerable to abuse or neglect.
Fox Business recently reported that nursing home abuse was suspected to increasing in assisted living facilities across the nation. With the elderly residents not having the benefit of regular visits from family and friends, incidents of employees or caregivers not treating the residents properly have surfaced. Some of these reports include neglect or mistreatment, while others reflect outright abuse.
Nursing Home Abuse – Neglect and Improper Care
Neglect is one of the most prevelant forms of nursing home abuse. Whether residents are left without help with hygiene or not given medications in a timely manner, neglect can quickly turn serious. In terms of the coronavirus, lack of proper preventative care could result in a deadly infection. Caregivers or administrators must be sure that facilities and rooms are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, that residents hands are washed often, and that employees are properly monitored for signs of infection. Depending on the situation, this may mean temperature checks, medical masks, or other measures designed to keep the resident safe.
Another possible problem is that fewer employees may be working at some facilities. With less staff to look after the residents, neglect and lack of attention may be the result. More stress and frustration can also lead to physical or emotional abuse.
Defend Your Loved Ones
When a nursing home, memory care center or assisted living facility acts with negligence and causes harm to its residents and patients, they deserve some help. While removing them from the situation may be the best immediate response, holding the facility responsible for maltreatment is also an option. If you suspect that your loved one is being abused or neglected, you may wish to visit more often – or stay in touch daily if visiting is not an option. Facetime or Zoom can be helpful if your loved one is able to facilitate these types of calls. Look or listen for changes in demeanor, mood or reactions; as well as any signs of slowing, pain or confusion, you may have cause for concern.
Witnesses, video recordings, and medical records can assist in establishing if the nursing home is guilty of negligence. Contact the personal injury attorneys at Probinsky & Cole if you wish to discuss a potential case.
