The best prevention against nursing home abuse and neglect are your eyes and ears. Below are also simple steps your can take to prevent your loved one from becoming a victim.
Be present.
The best way to make sure your loved one is safe is to visit often. It is a proven fact that residents with frequent visitors are less likely to become victims of abuse. Be sure to also vary the times of your visits so you can become familiar with the caregivers working on every shift. If your visiting time is consistent – but not predictable – then it is more likely your loved one will be fed, dressed and cared for earlier in the shift than a resident who never has visitors.
Be vigilant.
Because nursing home abuse varies - from the physical to the emotional and the obvious to the difficult to see - it is vital for you to be observant during visits and conversations. Learn the warning signs of abuse and keep a watchful eye. Frequently ask your loved one how they are being treated, and don’t be shy – ask if they are comfortable with you examining them physically.
Establish relationships with staff.
Get to know nursing home staff. Take the time to learn their names and what their role is in your loved one’s care. Be thoughtful – consider bringing an occasional pizza or box of treats with a note that it’s from the family of your loved one. Establishing a relationship will make it easier for you to question the resident’s treatment and care.
Monitor staff levels.
Neglect is typically a result of understaffing. When visiting your loved one, count how much staff is on hand or readily available to assist.
Monitor medications.
When visiting, ask to see your loved one’s medications. Make sure that prescribed medications are stocked, and compare the amount of medicine with the date of the prescription.
Empower your loved one.
Make sure your loved one has an action plan in the event of abuse. Ensure that your contact information is readily available and not solely in the hands of staff. Identify others your loved one would feel comfortable telling, including family, friends or doctors. Also provide your loved one with number for Eldercare Locator – (800) 677-1116. The service will refer victims to a local agency that can help them.