Nursing homes are designed to be safe, comfortable places for elderly persons and the disabled to receive care. Unfortunately, nursing homes are often underfunded, poorly staffed, or maintain internal processes which pose risks to residents. Two of the biggest risks to residents in these conditions are malnutrition and bedsores. If you suspect that your elderly loved one is suffering from either, you should take action immediately.
Signs of Malnutrition
It is essential that elderly people receive proper nutrition and hydration; if they don’t, they may be at an increased risk of early death, disease, and other health problems. Some signs of malnutrition include:
- Weight loss
- Weakness
- Excessive fatigue
- Deterioration of teeth
- Yellowing skin
- Canker sores
- White fingernails
- Glassy eyes
- Increase in medical problems
Another sign of malnutrition can be bedsores, discussed in more detail below.
The Risks of Bedsores
Bedsores are a painful and potentially dangerous medical condition. They are caused when a person is bedridden and cannot move from the bed or move within the bed, leading to ulcers caused by continuous pressure on the skin. For older adults, especially those who are weakened by malnutrition, bedsores can be a serious problem.
Once a bedsore develops, it can take weeks, months, or sometimes even years to fully heal. The biggest risk and potential consequence of bedsores is infection. Infection can cause mental confusion, weakness, and even death.
What to Do When Your Loved One Has Untreated Malnutrition and Bedsores in a Nursing Home in Massachusetts
If your elderly loved one is suffering from malnutrition, bedsores, or both, they are not receiving the level of care to which they are entitled. It is important that you take action as soon as possible to prevent further injury. Steps to take include:
- Immediately report your concerns to a nurse, floor supervisor, or the nursing home manager
- Collect evidence of the malnutrition or bedsores—take photos, write down your concerns and observation, and make sure your concerns are written down and formally documented
- File a complaint with the Massachusetts Long-Term Care Ombudsman
- Call an attorney who has experience in nursing home abuse cases
If you can prove that your loved one has suffered harm as a result of a breach of the medical standard of care owed to them, you can hold the nursing home liable for damages, including related medical expenses and other losses.
Reach Out to Our Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Today
When an elderly person is the victim of neglect or abuse within a nursing home, it’s up to others to take action on their behalf. At the office of Tetzel Law, LLC, our experienced nursing home abuse and neglect lawyer can help you to understand the legal actions to take when your loved one is being harmed at a nursing home facility. To learn more about how to take action, call our nursing home abuse lawyer directly at (617) 742-1700. You can also request a free consultation by filling out our contact form online.