Nursing Home Neglect Research Paper

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Nursing Home Neglect Estimates indicate that approximately 10 percent of the elderly population are neglected, abused or exploited every year. In 2050, the elderly population — those aged 65 and up — is expected to reach nearly 90 million, as opposed to the 40 million in 2010, consequently increasing the number of nursing home residents throughout the nation. Nursing homes need to address this problem today, so they can prepare for tomorrow. Federal Regulations Regarding Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect The Department of Health and Human Services states that nursing home facilities are required to report all allegations of neglect or abuse to ensure the safety of residents. According to Inspector General Daniel R. Levinson, 85 percent of nursing homes reported at least…show more content…
Neglect means providing substandard care, not providing care, or ignoring a patient entirely; abuse means intentionally harming a patient. There are four types of neglect: 1. Hygiene neglect may include the resident wearing unclean clothing, not caring for his/her teeth or hair, soiling himself/herself. 2. Social/Emotional neglect occurs when staff ignores a patient, leaves him/her alone or loses their patience with the resident for insignificant reasons. 3. Medical neglect refers to a patient not receiving the medications or medical attention that he/she needs. 4. Basic needs neglect includes a resident being deprived of a safe environment, water and food. Nursing Home Neglect – What You Need to Know Identifying the signs of nursing home neglect can be difficult; nevertheless, it is essential that you pay attention to the way your loved one acts to determine if neglect is a concern. Signs of Neglect Injuries from a fall Unexplained weight loss Bedsores Poor hygiene Signs of dehydration and/or malnutrition Hostility toward staff members Poor

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