Regrettably, nursing home abuse and neglect is a reality. When the time comes to consider whether to place a loved one in a nursing home, finding one that is safe becomes a primary concern. Many clients ask are county nursing homes safe. The fact is, every nursing home is different. So, it is important to do your homework. When it comes to county-run nursing homes, each county health department manages the safety and quality of care provided at each nursing home.
The state of nursing homes in Los Angeles County
There have been numerous complaints against county nursing homes over the years. According to recent audits, many of the investigations started have not been completed. Many complaint that a lack of central oversight of these investigations has resulted in the backlog, with thousands of investigations still open after two years.
According to some reports, the Los Angeles County health department has told some nursing home inspectors to close cases, even though the investigations were not complete. One of the problems is the fact that while investigations must be started within 10 days of a complaint, there is no deadline for completing them.
Examples of complaints abuse and neglect
In July 2008, a complaint was filed after a women was left unattended and fell breaking her hip. Then again, in July 2012, a woman died after a series of falls. It was alleged that the nursing home should have put better safety measures in place, in light of her history of falling. In April 2014, a resident at a Los Angeles County nursing home was reported as having a bed sore on her backside was so deep it exposed the bone. This was after she had received treatment at a hospital on numerous occasions for sores and bacterial infections.
Alternatives to nursing homes
Not all nursing homes are sources of abuse and neglect. There are many that provide excellent care. Nevertheless, many of us would rather live out our lives in our own homes, or the home of a loved one. Yet, staying at home is not always an option. When you consider the physical or mental health concerns, the need for round-the-clock care may be too great. There are some alternatives to consider, such as adult day care.
Consider adult daycare as an option
If reducing costs and curbing caregiver burnout are becoming an issue, you can supplement your in-home care with adult daycare. Adult daycare allows your loved one to spend time each day at an adult daycare center, enjoying meals and socializing with others. Your loved one can participate in activities and exercise, while experience a change from the isolation of being at home.
The benefits of adult daycare
The benefits for both the person in need of care and the caregiver are many. There are some adult daycare centers that have special services for individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia. The cost of adult day care is also much less than in-home care services. Some centers even offer fees on a sliding-scale.
If you have questions regarding nursing homes, or any other elder law needs, please contact the Schomer Law Group either online or by calling us at (310) 337-7696.
To learn more, please download our free California Nursing Homes Alternatives here.
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