At Debra L. Broz, Attorneys at Law, PLC, in Kentucky, we often provide answers for people who fear that loved ones are in an abusive or neglectful situation in a nursing home. You may want to take an active role in preventing abuse and negligence, or help to ensure that any signs of these are investigated. What can you do to help?
The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services explains that the state provides a representative for nursing home residents and their families: an ombudsman. Any time you notice a potential issue, you can take your concern to the certified ombudsman who serves the county in which the facility is located. Your report is confidential, so you do not have to worry about staff labeling you and your loved one as trouble and retaliating. The ombudsman will investigate the issue and contact you with the results. Unless it is a matter of immediate danger or a health risk, which would be addressed right away, you and the ombudsman can discuss what options are available to resolve the issue.
Your ombudsman not only investigates complaints, this person also proactively addresses common problems by advocating for long-term care legislation that protects nursing home residents and bringing issues to the public notice. You should be invited to join a family council where you receive educational information about resident rights and learn more about ways you can safeguard your loved one’s well-being.
For more information about long-term care abuse, please visit our webpage.