Re: Carol James calls on BC government to take over operation of Victoria area nursing home.
Why does elder abuse and neglect occur in care facilities?
Elder abuse and neglect occurs for several reasons. Where staffing levels are inadequate, there is increased risk, both because of too high a workload, and also because staff then feel overburdened and burned out. Neglect especially is the result of inadequate staff levels.
Management is a key to preventing elder abuse. Care needs to take precedence over profit. Management needs to commit to developing and carrying out a philosophy of care.
Complex care facilities (nursing homes) generally receive global budgets, so they may spend their funds as they wish. This allows staffing levels to vary. They do not have to put money into care or other services such as Social Work or physiotherapy which help to ensure high quality of care. Staffing levels can vary to the point where resident safety is not insured.
Abuse can also happen when frail or cognitively impaired residents are unable or fear retribution from staff if they do.The more impaired a resident is, the greater need they have of an advocate.
Signs of Abuse or Neglect
1. Unexplained bruises and sores
2. Change in behaviour
3. Fear of caregivers
4. Crying, apathy, or withdrawal
5. Dehydration, malnutrition
6. Dirty or soiled clothes and sheets
7. Internal bleeding
8. Broken glasses, teeth, hearing aids
How to prevent elder abuse?
1. Families and caregiver should be aware of care and visit at different times. Ask about staff levels and compare similar facilities. Do not be afraid to intervene. Call licensing or the Public Guardian and Trustee if issues are not resolved.
2. BC Government needs to insure that adequate money is spent on care and not profit.
3. Government needs to implement recommendations of the Premiers' task force.
4. We need a Seniors Ombudsman's office for the province who can review decisions and policies of the health authorities.
5. Care facilities need to adequately support their staff with training and adequate care levels. There has to be adequate staff to do their job in such a way that it insures the dignity and health of residents.
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