When caring for elderly loved ones, hygiene significantly impacts their well-being. Nursing homes must maintain a clean and safe environment for residents, but what happens if they fail to do so? If you suspect that hygiene neglect is affecting your loved one, you can take several steps to address the issue.
Signs of hygiene neglect in nursing homes
Hygiene neglect can appear in various ways, such as unclean living spaces or neglecting personal care like bathing and oral hygiene. Watch for signs like unpleasant body odor, dirty clothes, dirty or unkempt living spaces, soiled bedding or linens, untreated rashes, infections, or bedsores, and unclean or damaged medical equipment.
If you notice these signs, take them seriously. Hygiene neglect can lead to infections, skin conditions, and more serious health problems if not treated quickly.
Steps to take if you suspect hygiene neglect
If you believe that a nursing home is neglecting your loved one’s hygiene, follow these steps:
- Document everything – Record all incidents, including dates and descriptions, and take photos if possible. This documentation helps if you need to take further action.
- Speak with staff – Have a conversation with the nursing home staff and management. Hygiene issues might result from miscommunication or a temporary problem that can be fixed.
- File a complaint – If the staff doesn’t address the issue, file a formal complaint with the nursing home. Submit it in writing and include your concerns and any supporting documentation.
- Report to authorities – If the problem continues, report the nursing home to state or local authorities. In Delaware, the Division of Long-Term Care Residents Protection investigates complaints about nursing home neglect and abuse.
What to do if neglect continues
If hygiene neglect causes health issues or injury, you can take additional steps to ensure your loved one receives the care they need. You can follow up with nursing home management, escalate your concerns to the appropriate authorities, and monitor the situation closely to prevent further harm.
Taking action may feel overwhelming, but your loved one deserves a clean and safe environment. Holding nursing homes accountable for neglect benefits all residents.