Statistics show that there are around 700 licensed nursing homes in Florida, which are at about 85 percent capacity and house more than 73,000 residents. There are also more than 3,000 assisted living facilities that can house up to 92,000 residents. However, the Florida government updates a nursing home Watch List that identifies a shocking number of nursing homes that failed to meet safety standards, have only a conditional license, or are operating under bankruptcy. There are currently more than 100 facilities on the Watch List. This means there is a substantial chance that your loved one may be living in a nursing home that may allow substandard care.
When nursing home and assisted living facilities try to cut costs, they may hire untrained or underpaid staff members. Facility directors may also try to minimize the amount of medical care that takes place in-house or the number of medically-trained staff members on duty. All of these factors can lead to nursing home neglect, which can cause serious injuries and health issues for residents.
Do You Know the Signs of Nursing Home Neglect – Miami Personal Injury Attorneys
Unlike nursing home abuse, neglect is often not the result of intentional wrongdoing. However, nursing homes have the legal duty to abide by state health standards and regulations, as well as to provide for the basic needs of residents. When a nursing home fails to meet this duty, your loved ones can suffer. Residents may not realize what is happening or may be too afraid to report any concerns. For this reason, it is critical that family members and loved ones be aware of the signs of possible neglect. Such signs may include:
- Unexplained weight loss or weight gain, which may indicate improper nutrition
- Dry mouth, dry skin, or other signs of dehydration
- Bed sores from not being moved or shifted enough
- Dirty or soiled bedding or clothing
- Lack of proper personal hygiene, such as dirty hair, teeth, or fingernails
- Not wearing proper clothing for the temperature
- A room that is too hot or cold
- Bruises or other injuries that may indicate a lack of help moving around
- Spending most of the time alone when they are able to socialize
- Not needing prescription refills, which could mean a failure to administer medication
- Unnecessary complications of illness or injury due to a lack of medical response
Do You Know the Signs of Nursing Home Neglect – Miami Personal Injury Lawyer
When a nursing home or assisted living facility is negligent, the residents suffer. If you notice anything out of the ordinary or concerning, you shouldn’t hesitate to raise your concerns. If the nursing home refuses to acknowledge a problem or if your loved one suffered serious injuries, you should speak with a committed nursing home attorney who can evaluate your loved one’s rights.
Contact a Miami Nursing Home Abuse Attorney for Help Right Away
At Flagler Personal Injury Group, we protect the rights of nursing home and assisted living residents who receive substandard care in the Miami area. To discuss the best course of action in your situation, contact us online or call 305-424-8445 to schedule your free case evaluation.
We handle a variety of cases, so call us now if you have any questions.
View more contact information here: Personal Injury Attorney in Miami.