About 29 years ago, the Quad City Times published a 6-page series on abuse and neglect in nursing homes. The series carried stories, unveiling physical and mental health abuse by staff or other residents. Some of the victims had been injured or had died. These tragic stories were often published by Clark Kauffman, speaking of horrific tragedies of neglect and abuse. Though these stories date back to 1996, they still reflect the conditions of Iowa nursing homes. Over the years, little has changed. The neglect, abuse, and dehumanization continue. And we ask, ‘Why are government officials not outraged? In this blog, we at MacGillis Law Group, LLC uncover the incidents of Iowa nursing home abuse and actions that can be taken to improve the conditions.
What are the Major Problems in Iowa Nursing Homes Now?
The major problems in Iowa nursing homes and other facilities have not changed over the years. Some of the issues include:
- Limited Staff: Understaffed facilities imply an unbalanced patient-to-staff ratio, leading to neglect and abuse of elderly residents.
- Undertrained Staff: Lack of adequate training increases the risk of serious accidents, errors, and neglect.
- Not Reporting Abuse: One of the biggest problems in nursing homes is not reporting abuse to higher authorities. At times, victims are too scared to speak up or are silenced out of fear. Other victims may not be medically fit to speak and report abuse. Often, it also happens that the abuse report is not taken seriously due to an underlying medical condition.
- Results of Neglect & Poor Care: Long-term care comes with various physical and mental challenges. This, along with other medical conditions, neglect, and abuse, may lead to serious conditions or, at times, even death.
- Lack of Supervision: Limited supervision can significantly compromise on residents on health and safety.
Unfortunately, if you found your loved ones abused in nursing homes that you expect ot treat with care and utmost respect, our Milwaukee Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer is here to fight for your justice.
Why Nursing Homes are Not Held Liable?
The question arises: where is the outrage among federal and state legislators? The government? Local, state, and federal prosecutors? Despite raising public awareness about nursing home care and tragic accidents, incidents of abuse and neglect continue today. Still, there is no outrage for Iowa’s senior citizens. The truth is, even when charges are filed, the low-ranking nurses are held liable, instead of higher authorities. Millions of dollars annually go to these facilities, and the consequences? Unsatisfactory care.
What Can Be Done to Change the State of Nursing Homes?
Every person deserves the right to live with dignity and respect. The officials at nursing homes need to put in more effort to improve the safety and protection of elderly residents. New conferences, hearings, and draft legislation can be done to raise awareness and an action plan to address these issues.
Wrapping Up
Do you have concerns about your loved one in a nursing home? At MacGillis Law Group, LLC our Milwaukee nursing home abuse lawyer has helped families seek justice and hold at-fault parties accountable for their actions. If you have a case and are looking for the best legal representation, call us. Let us protect you.