Senior safety is a top concern for high-quality staff members and healthcare professionals at Assisted Living facilities and nursing homes. If you happen to encounter an Assisted Living facility that has any of the following “red flags”, you should consider it too risky of an environment for your loved one to call home:
Improper Medication Management
The managing and administration of medication plays an integral role in the quality of life for each resident. The more medication your loved one takes, the higher the risk of suffering an overdose or other potentially life-threatening reaction. Make sure that you educate the staff on all medications that your loved one is supposed to take and their respective frequencies. Do not forget to mention any over-the-counter drugs as well.
Unsafe Environmental Conditions
Another point that you should consider closely is the safety of the overall environment. For instance, when examining nursing homes, be cautious of living areas with poor lighting. Keep in mind that falling is the leading cause of injuries in these types of facilities. Do not forget to look out for obstructed walkways that could potentially create a problem for your loved one to travel throughout the facility on their own. There should even be safety handrails and other safety measures within the bathrooms as well.
Address Any Safety Issue Immediately
It is easy to unintentionally overlook certain safety problems and issues, especially if it seems as if the facility is a great choice. If you do notice any type of safety issue or concern, please do not hesitate to address it immediately. In addition to protecting your own loved one from a potential safety hazard, addressing the issue publicly with the staff may save many others from becoming victims themselves.
Can you think of any other “red flag” of senior safety issues at an Assisted Living facility or nursing home that belongs on this list? If so, please let us know! We would love to hear from you – especially if it is a safety issue that you or a loved one has personally encountered.
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