Nursing homes provide care for people who can no longer live independently. Many older adults spend their final years in nursing homes. A death in a nursing home is somewhat common, and many residents pass due to natural causes. However, sometimes residents in nursing homes die prematurely due to negligence and questionable care standards. Concerned family members who have learned of a loved one’s passing may need to review the situation carefully to determine if something inappropriate transpired.
Understanding the leading causes of deaths in nursing homes can make it easier for family members to evaluate a situation for problematic components.
1. Cardiac issues
Heart problems are common as people age. Various progressive medical challenges can lead to heart attacks and similar medical emergencies that can prove fatal. Often, older adults need medication and regular medical evaluations to monitor heart function and help them remain healthy for as long as possible.
2. Respiratory infections
Older adults do not have the robust immune systems that younger people enjoy. They are more vulnerable to serious infections. Pneumonia often spreads rapidly through nursing home facilities. Those with underlying respiratory issues, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are especially vulnerable to respiratory infections.
3. Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia
Dementia tends to progress and can sometimes trigger physical medical challenges. Many older adults in nursing homes are there specifically because of their struggles with dementia. Proper support can help people stay safe and comfortable even when experiencing profound cognitive decline.
4. Malnutrition
In some cases, a nursing home resident’s malnutrition is a result of dementia. Other times, it may be indicative of inappropriate care standards or abusive treatment of specific residents. A lack of adequate nutrition or the absence of critical nutrients can lead to intense strain on the body and premature mortality.
5. Injuries from falls
Older adults are relatively vulnerable to falls. When they fall, they can sustain major injuries. They may also face restrictions regarding daily activity. People who are bedbound are at risk of secondary medical complications, such as infected bedsores, that may lead to rapid physical decline.
Proper patient monitoring, consistent sanitation practices and adequate resident support for daily tasks can all help diminish the likelihood of nursing home residents dying prematurely due to injury or illness. In cases where poor care standards may have led to preventable injuries or illnesses, grieving families may sometimes have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit.
Connecting the cause of a loved one’s death with facility care practices may help those hoping to file a wrongful death lawsuit. If nursing homes do not keep residents safe and healthy, they may be liable for the impact their negligence has on older adults and their families.