Nursing home neglect and abuse are different, though related. Neglect is something that happens because the caretakers simply aren’t providing the right level of care, but abuse is when they are actively performing negative events to harm someone. Examples of this can range from financial abuse to sexual abuse to physical abuse.
The problem with nursing home neglect is often that it is a bit less obvious. You’re not going to see all of the same signs, such as unexplained injuries. But neglect can still be deadly and it’s important for family members to know what to look for. One key symptom may be chronic dehydration.
Dehydration in the elderly
If you ask anyone who works with elderly individuals in a hospital setting, a nursing home, an assisted living center or even an in-home care setting, they’ll tell you that keeping people hydrated is a challenge. This can happen because these individuals may lack the mobility necessary to obtain their own drinks. It can also happen because they have trouble using the restroom, so they may try not to drink in order to have to do so less frequently.
Since it is so labor-intensive to help these individuals get proper hydration, some workers may decide that they are going to give them less water than they actually need. The workers are not necessarily doing this maliciously, but they are being negligent and not offering the type of care that your elderly loved one deserves.
Signs of dehydration can include things like nausea, not crying, not using the bathroom, fainting, complaining about dizziness and much more. If you notice any of these things, be sure you know what legal options you have.
