Nursing Home Abuse on the Rise, article by Tommy Sands
Nursing home abuse is sadly on the rise. A recent case in Fair Oaks, CA adds to this tragedy. Sean Suh installed a “GrannyCam” beside his grandmother’s bed just after she had moved into Fair Oaks Residential Elderly Care. The sad twist in this case is as Sean Suh was looking for another nursing home for his/her? grandmother, she died at 73.
When a family places a family member in these types of homes, they expect the utmost care and diligence to be provided. The elderly are also subject to the same expectations. Most of the time, they are unable to take care of themselves and can no longer live on their own.
There were a variety of things that led to her death. In her autopsy it was revealed that there were potential levels of toxic narcotics, including a drug never prescribed by her physician. What is most shocking is what the “GrannyCam” revealed. It shows that a staff member moved the grandmother to her wheelchair, then “dumped” the chair while the grandmother was sitting in it, and all the while was continuously “shaking” the wheelchair. Sean Suh also reports that in a specific instance they found their grandmother crying, unattended, and upside down. Bruises and untreated infections are among other things said to have been discovered on other occasions.
Allegations against this specific nursing home in Fair Oaks include “violations of personal rights of residents.” The facility’s operators are Myung S. and Jay J. Kim. California is also seeking to permanently revoke the home’s license.
Another example of Nursing Home neglect took place in Humboldt County were a jury found for a $671 million verdict against a nursing home chain. One of the main violations was failing to meet the staffing standard. Among the evidence used to help reach this verdict were “internal e-mails” that members of the jury were able to read. The e-mails can be read at this California Watch.
While this may seem to already have released Pandora’s Box, an entirely separate issue has arisen. While nursing homes have received increased state funding, they have continued to cut staff salaries. The exact amount in California was $880 million, as you can see here.
But it seems that too little has been done too late. Nursing home lawsuits are continuing to rise, staffing is being cut, and reports of abuse are becoming commonplace.
Abuse can be reported to the Department of Social Services. And if you or someone you know would like more information please get in contact with our offices.
You know what thats a damn shame to work all your life to have someone you are paying to treat you like that. Regardless what these people think those residents are the ones paying them. They are the boss!!!!!!!!! If you don't like the job get the hell out of there. One day that will be them or a loved one. Karma will come around.