What Are The Effects Of Malnourishment In Nursing Homes?
According toSAGE Open Nursing, some effects of malnourishment in nursing homes include:
Malnourishment is an indicator of neglect in nursing homes. If your loved one suffered from the effects of malnourishment, you have legal options.
Malnourishment Can Also Lead to a Weakened Immune System
Most nursing home patients are elderly and in fragile health. One or more of the following effects listed above could compromise their health––namely, their immune systems.Nutrientsnotes that malnourishment weakens how the body combats certain ailments.
This can lead to:
The publication also notes that malnourished seniors are more likely to contract COVID-19 than their well-nourished peers. It’s vital for seniors to stay hydrated and receive balanced meals while in a care facility. Otherwise, they could face a host of negative health effects.
Signs of Malnourishment in Nursing Home Patients
Malnourished nursing home patients can often appear frail and have thinning hair. Their skin may be pale, bruise easily, and heal slowly. Sunken eyes or poor dental health are also not uncommon in malnourished patients. Residents may also lack awareness or seem “out of it” when you visit them.
Some cognitive impairments that come with malnourishment include:
Some nursing home patients don’t recognize the symptoms of malnourishment and write off these impairments as part of aging. Yet, if you notice any of these signs in your loved one, we urge you to take action. This may involve bringing up your concerns to the nursing home’s administration or even removing them from the facility altogether.
What Are the Causes of Malnourishment in Nursing Homes?
Nursing homes have a responsibility to provide a reasonable standard of care for their patients. Upholding this standard of care includes making sure that patients have balanced, scheduled meals that promote their well-being. Yet, not every care facility provides adequate care.
Some causes of malnourishment in nursing homes include:
You Have Options if Your Loved One Suffered Malnourishment in a Nursing Home
If your loved one suffered malnourishment in their nursing home, you have legal rights. You can file a claim or lawsuit against the negligent care facility for the harm your loved one endured. Compensation in your case could comprise healthcare expenses, moving to a new care facility, and pain and suffering.
You Can Partner with a Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Lawyer
Pursuing compensation from a negligent nursing home is easier said than done. The care facility may deny responsibility for your loved one’s condition. Its administration may gaslight you into thinking that nothing is wrong. This is where partnering with a nursing home abuse and neglect attorney can benefit you.
They can:
After learning that your loved one suffered harm in a care facility, you don’t want to struggle with a complicated legal case. You want to spend time with your loved one and make their life easier. Entrusting your case to a lawyer can come with a host of benefits.
Connect with Our Team to Start a Free Case Review
Here atBrown & Barron, we pride ourselves on being a resource for our community. We take nursing home abuse and neglect cases personally. If your loved one suffered from the effects of malnourishment in a nursing home, we’re ready to champion your rights.
To explore your legal options, call us today. We offer free case reviews where we can listen to your situation and lay out a course of action.