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No matter your age, nutritional well-being and hydration are critical elements that contribute to your quality of life. Yet, many older adults living in nursing homes are at risk of inadequate nutrition and dehydration as a result of abuse and neglect. As such, dehydration and malnutrition remain a complex and widespread issue affecting the welfare of older adults, despite the numerous guidelines and reforms in place.
Malnutrition and dehydration caused by a lack of proper nutrition and fluids can lead to infections, confusion, and muscle weakness, among other side effects. These symptoms can result in immobility, falls, pressure ulcers, pneumonia, and a weak immune system. If you or a loved one are suffering from malnutrition or dehydration while living in a nursing home, you may have a claim for monetary damages. Reach out to the experienced New York elder abuse and neglect attorneys at Dalli & Marino today.
Dehydration in Nursing Homes
Dehydration occurs when a person loses more water than they take in—a reduction of fluids that leads to harm. Chronic dehydration is a common problem for seniors, and it can lead to kidney failure, brain swelling, seizures, pneumonia, coma, or even death. Symptoms of dehydration can include the following:
- Low blood pressure
- Confusion, irritability, or delirium
- Constipation or decreased urination
- Sunken eyes
- Difficulty walking, dizziness, and headaches
- Rapid breathing or heart rate
- Inability to sweat or produce tears
- Thirst or dry mouth
- Dry skin or decreased skin elasticity
Water intake is essential to the health of patients in nursing homes. Unfortunately, however,
dehydration is commonplace in nursing homes and can seriously harm any person with health problems. Operators of nursing homes must have protocols to try to avoid and treat dehydration among their residents. When they fail to address these needs, negligence occurs.
Malnutrition in Nursing Homes
Malnutrition is a condition that develops when the body is deprived of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients it needs to maintain healthy tissues and organ function. Malnutrition occurs in either undernourished or overnourished people and can lead to a diminished immune system, muscle weakness, poor wound healing, decreased organ function, or death. Symptoms of malnutrition can include the following:
- Confusion
- Fatigue and dizziness
- Dry skin
- Weight loss
- Bloating
- Tooth decay and swollen or bleeding gums
- A decline in mental function
- Muscle loss
Malnourishment is a prevalent problem in nursing homes across the country. It’s essential that these individuals receive a balanced diet, complete with all of the minerals and vitamins their bodies need to maintain health.
Perhaps another contributing factor has to do with the lack of individualized care in nursing homes. Simple acts such as exercise, exposure to fresh air, mental and sensory stimulation, and eating with others can elevate negative moods such as depression and, consequently, an increased appetite. Without these basic elements, the nursing home and its staff may be held negligent.
Call an Experienced Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Lawyer
If you think that a family member isn’t properly being hydrated and nourished at a nursing home, contact the trusted attorneys at Dalli & Marino. We can inform you of your rights and the potential value of your compensation. This may include payment for medical bills, lost wages, lost services, loss of earning capacity, physical pain and suffering, and emotional trauma. We’re a group of seasoned lawyers who understand New York regulations and government healthcare. Our team of highly trained trial attorneys will best be able to help you evaluate the compensation you may be granted based on the circumstances of your case.
At Dalli & Marino, our settlements and verdicts have recovered millions of dollars for our clients since 1996. We tackle each case on an individual basis and are dedicated to helping your loved one recover the money you need to compensate for your loved one’s injury or illness. Give us a call at (888) 465-8790 or complete our contact form today.
