Nursing homes should be places of care and comfort for elderly loved ones. However, the reality for many residents can be far from that ideal.
One factor contributing to neglect in nursing homes is the issue of underpaid workers. When caregivers are not well compensated for their role, it can lead to a range of problems.
Staffing shortages
Underpaid workers often face staffing shortages, forcing them to take on more responsibilities than they can handle. This overwhelming workload can lead to burnout among caregivers. When staff members are too thinly spread out, they may not have enough time to properly attend to the needs of each resident. This increases the likelihood of neglect.
Physical health consequences
Neglect due to underpaid workers can have consequences for residents’ physical health. Missed medications, bad hygiene and poor nutrition can lead to medical issues such as infections, bedsores and malnutrition. Without proper care, residents may show a decline in their overall physical well-being. This quickly diminishes their quality of life.
Mental health implications
The neglect resulting from underpaid workers can also take a toll on residents’ mental health. Feelings of abandonment or neglect can lead to depression and other psychological issues. Residents may feel continually isolated, increasing feelings of loneliness and despair. Without compassion and meaningful interactions, residents often struggle to take care of their mental well-being.
By ensuring that caregivers are fairly compensated for their work, employers can help reduce the risk of injuries in nursing homes. Those hurt because of neglect may want to seek fair compensation.
