If you have an elderly loved one in a nursing home or care facility, the summer poses some unique challenges. Elderly loved ones can be especially susceptible to heat stroke, dehydration, and other common summer ailments. It is important to visit loved ones in the summer and look for problems such as:
1) Inadequate time outdoors. Once the weather is pleasant, elderly loved ones should spend some time outdoors, enjoying fresh air. However, outings should be supervised to ensure no trip and fall accidents. In the summer, outings can ensure that patients do not suffer from bed sores and other types of neglect.
2) Ground maintenance issues. Care facilities may need to water lawns and gardens but any areas where patients walk should be kept free of debris, overhanging branches, and puddles. Even the puddles which form from sprinklers can increase the chances of a Florida slip and fall accidents, so it is important to ensure that the grounds are well-maintained and safe.
3) Insect bites. For bed-ridden patients and patients with decreased mobility, bed bites can be a serious problem. They can cause considerable discomfort and can even become infected if not attended to. Care facilities and nursing homes should have screens and netting in place to ensure that insects do not get into the facility too easily. Patients who go outside should not be left unattended for long periods of time. Any insect bites that do occur should be treated to ensure the patient’s comfort.
4) Heat stroke, sunburn, and dehydration. These common summer ailments can affect anyone, but elderly loved ones can be especially vulnerable if they need help with everyday tasks. Look for signs of problems, such as slurred speech, confusion, obvious signs of sunburn, and chapped lips. Patients should be given plenty to drink and should not be left outdoors in the sun for more than a few minutes. Elderly loved ones should get help applying sunscreen when they do go outside and there should be fans or air conditioning in use indoors to maintain a safe temperature.
If you believe that an elderly loved one has been the victim of elder abuse and neglect, contact the Flaxman Law Group to schedule a free accident consultation to discuss your case. The Flaxman Law Group can investigate the situation and can help you understand your rights and options. With law offices in Miami, Homestead, and Hollywood, the Flaxman Law Group is proud to serve the enture South Florida community.