Dehydration in Palm Beach Nursing Home Residents is Common
It is critical that elderly nursing home residents be monitored for proper fluid intake. Dehydration in the elderly is often linked to infection; if it is overlooked, mortality rates may be in excess of 50%. Failure to ensure proper hydration on the part of the nursing home or facility will lead to serious health problems, and in many cases, death.
Florida nursing home residents are guaranteed rights under the Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987. If you feel that your loved one may have experienced dehydration due to nursing home negligence, contact a Palm Beach nursing home abuse lawyer at Fetterman & Associates.
Risk Factors for Dehydration
The elderly have a higher risk of developing dehydration than younger adults for several physiological reasons:
- Rate at which water is metabolized changes with age
- Overall loss of muscle mass, total body water, and bone mass with age
- Thirst sensation decreases with age
The risk factors for dehydration lead to a loss of autonomy or a loss of cognitive function that limit the access to beverages, so nursing home staff must remain vigilant to bring residents water to consistently guard against dehydration.
Nursing Home Negligence
Malnutrition and dehydration can occur in a variety of situations due to nursing home negligence:
- Inadequate staff coverage (resulting in residents going for extended periods without adequate food or water).
- Inadequate staff attention for residents who need assistance eating or drinking.
- Failure to train staff and employ adequate hydration strategies.
Ensure the Safety of Your Loved One
If your loved exhibits any signs of dehydration or malnutrition, their life may depend on your taking action to protect them immediately. If your loved one has been a victim of Palm Beach nursing home abuse or negligence, the facility may be liable.
While on our website, please take advantage of your free copy of our book, Smart Lawyers, Smart Clients – Wear Clean Underwear. This book has essential information for anyone with a family member who may have been a victim of nursing home abuse.
If your family has experienced nursing home abuse in the form of dehydration or malnutrition, contact Fetterman & Associates at 1-866-865-1244 to speak with an experienced Palm Beach nursing home abuse attorney.
