It is an unfortunate fact of life that we all must face aging and death eventually. As we get older, various biological systems begin to function less efficiently, and sometimes break down entirely. When this occurs, even the healthiest of us can find ourselves in a position of needing to be cared for by medical professionals. It can be difficult to watch a loved one go through not being able to completely care for him- or herself, especially when that individual was an independent person.
However, sometimes we have to do what is best for our loved ones, and in some instances, this means placing them in facilities where they can receive the care they need, and still maintain some semblance of independence. People in this situation have to be able to trust that the facility and its employees will fulfill their duties and provide the proper level of care. When they don’t, the consequences can be serious, and sometimes, even fatal.
When a patient in a nursing home or other long-term care facility dies, it may be tempting to think that the person was old or sick anyway, and that it was bound to happen. However, it is important to remember that it is because these individuals are especially vulnerable that nursing home staff need to be held to account for the level of care provided. When this is not provided, poor outcomes can be expected, such as bad infections and other potentially life-threatening consequences.
When a loved one dies in the care of a nursing home, it may be behoove relatives to review the circumstances of the death and attempt to recall any potential signs they may have seen of neglect or abuse. At Savinis & Kane, we fight against nursing homes who fail to properly care for their residents.
Our elderly and sick family members deserve to be treated with respect, and cared for competently. Our law firm’s nursing home neglect web page has helpful information for families who are concerned about their loved ones falling victim to elder abuse.