Is your loved one at risk in a Texas nursing home?

Is your loved one at risk in a Texas nursing home? When your parent moved into a nursing home assisted living facility, you both likely experienced a big period of adjustment. You may have been quite used to stopping by his or her house for a visit after work. In fact, you might have grown up in that house and experienced a roller coaster of emotions when the time came to put it up for sale. Other adult children in Texas have gone through similar experiences. In fact, you may be able to speak with some to offer one another encouragement and support as you come to terms with your own parent's new living arrangement. Another thing you can do when speaking with other nursing home visitors is check up on the level of quality care your loved ones are getting. By comparing notes, so-to-speak, it helps you keep an eye on things and may also draw your attention to a particular issue that warrants further investigation. Sadly, nursing home abuse is a problem throughout the nation. Don't ignore symptoms of neglect or abuse It's understandable that your main hope is simply for your parent to be happy as she or he navigates the golden years of life. However, if you notice any of the following problems, it may be a signal that something is seriously wrong with the type of care (or lack thereof) staff members are providing your loved one:

• Dirty, unsanitary living conditions are a major sign of neglect.
• Unexplained lacerations, bruises, swelling or other marks on the body should also raise your concerns.
• There is a drastic change in your loved one's personality that has no logical basis. Does he or she seem particularly worried when a specific staff member enters the room?
• Does your loved one complain often of feeling thirsty or hungry? Why is that?
• When was the last time your parent got outside for some fresh air? If he or she can't recall, it's definitely cause to inquire about it with nursing home officials.
• Has your parent suffered an infection or illness? If you believe the cause has something to do with substandard care, the sooner you get to the bottom of the matter, the better.

Let's face it. Some elderly people tend to be on the cantankerous side by nature. However, that's no reason to disregard consistent complaints that suggest neglect or abuse. Even if your parent has a cranky type of personality, if he or she tells you they are not satisfied with their new living arrangements, it's important to find out why. No elderly person living in a nursing home should suffer injury because staff members are abusive or administrators are negligent in their duties. There are support networks to help Texas nursing home residents rectify such situations. If your loved one has suffered abuse or neglect in a nursing home or assisted living facility, you can take action. A lawyer can review your loved one's situation, and if necessary, file a lawsuit seeking compensation and justice.