In 2022, the American Health Care Association revealed that 87% of nursing homes grapple with moderate to high worker shortages. This widespread problem has created a fertile ground for neglect, compromising the care and safety of the population’s most vulnerable citizens.
When a facility lacks enough nurses, aides, and support staff, residents may not receive the timely attention and proper medical care they desperately need. This shortage can deeply affect the daily lives of elderly residents, compromising their health and well-being. But what exactly is the extent of understaffing’s impact on these vulnerable individuals?
How understaffing leads to neglect
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recommends that each nursing home resident receive between 4.1 and 4.85 hours of direct nursing care daily, based on their length of stay. Sadly, many facilities struggle to meet these standards due to poor funding, high staff turnover, and challenging work environments. And when these places start to cut corners, the consequences can be severe. These include:
- Missed medication doses: With too many residents, staff may forget or delay administering crucial medications.
- Poor hygiene and sanitation: Rushed caregivers might skip or shorten essential tasks like bathing, changing or oral care. This can lead to the spread of illnesses and infections throughout the home.
- Malnutrition and dehydration: With too few staff members, some occupants may not receive proper nutrition or enough fluids. This oversight can severely impact their health and well-being.
- Increased fall risk: Fewer staff means less supervision for patients who need help moving around.
- Lack of social interaction: When caregivers are stretched thin, they have little time for meaningful conversations or activities with residents. This shortage of personal attention can result in emotional neglect, affecting residents’ mental health.
When facilities lack adequate personnel, even the most dedicated caregivers struggle to provide the level of care residents deserve. If you notice any of these signs during your visits, your loved one may be experiencing neglect due to understaffing.
What families can do
Start by keeping a detailed record of your concerns, including specific issues, dates and times you observe during visits. Talk openly with nursing staff and administrators about what you have noticed. They may offer helpful solutions or explanations. However, if problems continue, do not hesitate to file a formal complaint with the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration. Your proactive approach can make a significant difference in ensuring your family member receives the care they deserve.
