Nutritional neglect in nursing homes is a serious and often overlooked issue that can have devastating consequences for elderly residents. In Maryland, where many nursing homes are funded by Medicaid and Medicare, ensuring proper nutrition is not just a matter of care—it's a legal obligation. When facilities fail to meet these standards, families have the right to seek justice.
Understanding Nutritional Neglect
Nutritional neglect occurs when a nursing home fails to provide its residents with adequate food and hydration. This can manifest in various ways, including:
- Serving meals that are nutritionally inadequate or spoiled
- Failing to assist residents with eating or drinking, especially those with physical or cognitive impairments
- Not addressing medical conditions that affect nutrition, such as dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
- Ignoring signs of malnutrition or dehydration, like weight loss, fatigue, or confusion
Such neglect can lead to severe health complications, including weakened immune systems, increased susceptibility to infections, and even death.
Legal Recourse for Families
In Maryland, nursing homes are required to meet specific standards of care under both state and federal law. When a facility fails to provide adequate nutrition, it may violate these regulations. Families have the right to hold these facilities accountable through legal action.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Nutritional Neglect
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your loved one's condition, including weight changes, physical appearance, and any concerns about meals or hydration.
- Report the Issue: Contact the Maryland Department of Health's Office of Health Care Quality to file a complaint.
- Seek Legal Advice: Consult with an attorney experienced in nursing home abuse and neglect cases. They can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process.
- Consider Legal Action: If negligence is proven, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Holding Facilities Accountable
Legal action can serve as a powerful tool to hold nursing homes accountable for their actions. In Maryland, several cases have highlighted the importance of oversight and accountability in long-term care facilities. For instance, a recent lawsuit revealed that the state failed to conduct annual surveys of over 80% of nursing facilities, leading to widespread neglect and harm to residents (Maryland State Bar Association).
By pursuing legal claims, families not only seek justice for their loved ones but also contribute to broader efforts to improve care standards and prevent future neglect.
Why Choose Brown & Barron, LLC
At Brown & Barron, LLC, we are committed to advocating for the rights of nursing home residents and their families. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of nutritional neglect cases and are dedicated to securing the best possible outcomes for our clients.
If you believe your loved one has suffered from nutritional neglect in a Maryland nursing home, contact us today at (410) 698-1717 for a free consultation. We will review your case, explain your legal options, and work tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable.