Pressure sores are localized damage to the skin. They typically form on the body around bony areas. Unfortunately, pressure sores are not an uncommon sight in nursing home facilities. In many cases, they are a sign of neglect.

It’s important to understand that pressure sores and their complications, in most cases, are entirely preventable. While there are certain nursing home patients who are more at risk for developing sores, nursing home staff should be well aware of the risks so they can take precautionary measures to avoid serious issues.

If your loved one is in a nursing home or long-term care facility, you may be concerned that they’re not getting the care they deserve. When your loved one is being wrongfully abused or neglected, their health can severely decline and their quality of life is not what it should be. If you fear for your family member’s safety, you should be aware that there are certain signs of elder abuse that you can look for. You should also know that neglect– in all forms– is a type of abuse and is legally considered abuse.

The decision for your loved one to live a nursing home is an emotional one, but you’re making sure they get the best care. Nursing homes are supposed to give your loved one a healthy and safe community where skilled professionals provide a high quality of life that benefits your loved one’s well-being.

If you ever received news that your loved one had gotten hurt in the nursing home, you might feel devastated and confused. It’s scary to think that your loved one might not be safe in their nursing home. You’re wondering how this happened and how you can ensure it never happens again.

Has your loved one suffered an injury at their nursing home in Nebraska? You have the legal right to reach out for help. Welsh & Welsh has experience, drive, and a strong sense of community. We aim to help people and we’ll listen to any concern you might have.

Nursing home abuse is a sad and all too common problem occurring daily in long term care facilities across the United States.  Legal boundaries are blurred if not crossed completely, placing innocent senior citizens in physical and emotional jeopardy.  It is imperative that all nursing home residents and resident representatives in Nebraska understand the state’s nursing home rights and hold facilities accountable when these rights are not respected.

Possession of a copy of the federal and state laws that govern nursing home resident care is the right of every nursing home resident.  Facilities are required to post contact information for the local ombudsman program and state survey agency where this information may be obtained.  Facility rules and regulations pertaining to resident conduct and responsibilities must be presented to all residents before or at the time of admission.

Federal and state laws offer extensive protections for nursing home residents in areas such as privacy, financial matters, personal treatment, and medical care.  The federal Nursing Home Reform Law protects the rights of residents in homes that receive Medicare and Medicaid funds, which includes most nursing home facilities.

Placing someone you love in a nursing home and turning over their basic care to total strangers can be frightening.  This emotional decision, though necessary for their well-being, is never easy.  There are things you can do to help ensure that your loved one is properly cared for and does not become a victim of nursing home abuse and neglect.

Pay attention.  Before choosing a facility it is likely that you carefully examined it to be sure it was a quality choice.  It is important to remain vigilant and continue to examine the facility each and every time you visit.  Watch how the staff interacts with one another and with residents.  Note how the staff addresses the residents, such as using “Mr.” or “Mrs.” instead of “Grandpa” or “Grandma”.  And note any strong smells.  Strange and unpleasant odors are inevitable, but a strong, lingering smell of urine can indicate a lack of cleaning.