Naples Assisted Living Falls/Broken Bones Attorney
Staff in assisted living facilities have a lot of responsibility. These employees are not always well-paid for what they have to do. They have to take care of patients, which includes tasks such as feeding, giving medication, bathing, dressing, grooming, and more. Some of these patients are somewhat or fully immobile, which means that they have trouble getting from one place to another.
This is a frustrating situation for all involved. The patient wants to move around, but staff members are busy and not always available to help. This means that the patient may try to move around on their own, causing falls and serious injuries such as broken bones.
Falls are especially dangerous for the elderly and can also lead to death. If your loved one has been affected, contact Kohn Law today. See how a Naples assisted living falls/broken bones attorney can get you full and fair compensation from the liable nursing home.
Why Do Falls Occur in Nursing Homes?
Falls are common in nursing homes, but why? The elderly in general are prone to falls. They tend to suffer from mobility problems as they get older. Plus, those who are in nursing homes are typically sick and frail, making them an even higher risk. Some medical conditions make walking more difficult.
Also, nursing home residents tend to need help taking care of themselves. They may suffer from memory problems, which can make them forget where they are or even how to walk.
Nursing home residents tend to overestimate their abilities. They may think they can move around efficiently when they really can’t. Compounding this situation is the fact that many nursing homes are understaffed, so when patients do need help moving, that help is not always readily available.
Causes of Falls in Nursing Homes
Nursing home residents may fall due to the following issues:
- Muscle weakness and gait problems
- Environmental hazards, such as clutter and equipment on the ground and in the hallways
- Poor lighting
- Wet floors
- Poorly fitted or poorly maintained wheelchairs
- Improper use of walking aids, such as walkers and canes
- Beds that are set too high
- Medications such as sedatives and anti-anxiety drugs
- Mobility problems/difficulty getting from place to place
- Poor foot care
- Poorly fitted shoes
Nursing homes can prevent these issues by having proper protocols in place. Patients who have mobility and memory problems should be watched more carefully. Walking aids and adaptive devices should be used. More education and training can also be helpful.
Contact Kohn Law Today
Falls are common in nursing homes as patients try to move around unassisted. Plus, staff shortages can mean patients are not getting proper care.
Broken bones should not occur in a nursing home setting. Kohn Law can help you with your nursing home abuse or neglect case. Contact one of our Naples assisted living falls/broken bones attorneys today. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call (813) 428-8504.
