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Neglect is a common form of elder abuse

On Behalf of | May 21, 2018 | Nursing Home Abuse And Neglect

When you have a loved one who resides in an Illinois nursing home, you will want to know that he or she is being cared for properly. Though you may try to ensure this by making regular visits, perhaps you see something in the nursing home that suggests your loved one is suffering from neglect.

Some opinions suggest that the vast majority of residents of nursing homes in the United States suffer from neglect at some point; understaffing is often the problem. Neglect in nursing homes is never acceptable, and legal action can be taken against the nursing home itself if it is believed that the staff was negligent in some way.

Why is neglect in nursing homes so common?

Neglect in nursing homes is completely preventable, but it continues to be prevalent. This is rooted in nursing home owners wanting to make a profit by hiring as few staff as possible. This means that staff are simply unable to give all residents the care and attention that they need, and, as a result, neglect occurs.

What are the different types of neglect?

Neglect can come in many different forms. Neglect is a general term for a failure to provide the basic needs for a person under care. Neglect can relate to administering a resident’s medical care or basic personal care and hygiene needs.

Medical neglect can be extremely dangerous, since many nursing home residents are dependent on medication. If they fail to receive medication in a timely manner, their health could suffer.

Social neglect is also a common occurrence, and it can lead to a resident suffering from loneliness, depression and anxiety. Nursing homes should provide basic emotional support.

If you are concerned that a loved one is being neglected in an Illinois nursing home, it is important to take action.