More 90% of nursing homes cited for violations
More than 90 percent of US nursing homes were cited for violation of federal health and safety standards last year, according to a new report. Among the violations identified were medication errors, poor nutrition, inadequate staffing, and abuse and neglect.
For-profit nursing homes were more likely to be cited with 94 percent being found to be in violation. Government-run nursing homes did slightly better with 91% being cited. Eight-eight percent of non-profit homes were cited.
The report was prepared by Daniel R Levinson, the inspector general of the US Department of Health and Human services.
The US National Institute on Aging (NIA) provides information to help you choose a nursing home. The NIA suggests that when you are looking for a nursing home you should:
- Look. What choices are in your area? Is there a place close to family and friends? What’s important to you-nursing care, meals, a religious connection, hospice care, or Special Care Units for dementia care?
- Ask. Talk with friends, relatives, social workers, and religious groups to find out what places they suggest. Ask doctors which nursing homes they feel provide good care?
- Call. Get in touch with each place on your list. Ask questions about how many people live there and what it costs. Find out about waiting lists.
- Talk. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Ask how long the director and department heads (nursing, food, and social services) have worked at the nursing home. If key staff change a lot, that could mean there is a problem.
- Visit again. Make a second visit without first calling. Try another day of the week or time of day so you will meet other staff members and see other activities. Stop by at mealtime. Do people seem to be enjoying their food?
- Understand. Once you choose, carefully read the contract. Check with your State Ombudsman (see Resources That Can Help) for help making sense of the contract.
To learn more:
- Read the AP story in the Seattle Times.
- Download a brochure on choosing a nursing home prepared by the US Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
- Download the Medicare.gov-Nursing Home Checklist when visiting a nursing home.
- Visit the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services webpage on Aging & Disability Services Administration.
Category: Senior Health, Uncategorized
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