The family has recently decided that it’s in the best interests of your elderly relative to enter a nursing home, and they are in agreement. This is a big decision that has not been taken lightly, but it’s in the best interests of your loved one.
You put a lot of research into finding the most suitable place. After numerous online searches and site visits, you’ve settled on a facility. Nursing homes not only have an ethical duty to provide the highest standards of care, but this is also a legal obligation.
Sadly, institutions don’t always adhere to their side of the bargain, and nursing home abuse can occur. Why does this happen?
Staffing shortages
There’s no denying that caring for vulnerable people is a demanding job. However, staff often claim that the rewards far outweigh the demands. This outlook can change for some when nursing homes are understaffed. When the workload of a carer is too much, they may become frustrated and take it out on residents either physically or emotionally. Of course, understaffing is not a justification for abuse, but it is one of the more common causes.
Poor management
The ethos of an organization often comes from the top. If the manager of a nursing home is in a position they really don’t want to be in, this can influence other employees. If management has little patience or compassion for elderly residents, then staff are bound to be influenced by this. This has the potential to foster an environment where abuse occurs.
The majority of care homes and staff do a tremendous job in looking after vulnerable residents. However, nursing home abuse is significant enough to warrant concern. If you are worried about the treatment of your elderly relative, be sure to look into your legal options.