The decision to place a loved one in a New Mexico nursing home or long-term care facility is never easy, but it becomes increasingly difficult if you have concerns about the type of care he or she will receive once you leave the facility. Regrettably, many nursing homes are understaffed, and many nursing home staff members are undertrained, underpaid, and overworked, and these factors together sometimes result in nursing home abuse or neglect. At Harvey & Foote Law Firm, we understand your concerns for your loved one, and we have helped many clients seek justice when their loved ones suffer abuse or neglect at the hands of someone supposed to care for them.
While it is virtually impossible to know what goes on behind closed doors at all times, there are certain signs you can look for when exploring potential nursing homes that may indicate a problem inside. For example, U.S. News & World Report notes that you may want to think twice before choosing a nursing home where administrators are hard to come by. For example, if no one is at the front desk when you enter, or if you have a hard time getting your phone calls returned by facility staff, you might want to reconsider signing on.
You may, too, be wary of any facility that strips decision-making power from your loved one, if he or she is still capable of managing many aspects of his or her life. For example, ask about whether a facility lets your loved one go to sleep and wake up as he or she pleases, or whether your loved one has much say over his or her day-to-day diet. Any facility that limits independence may not be a place you want your loved one to live.
If a facility has strict visiting hours, this may, too, serve as a red flag. While it makes sense that nursing homes do not want late-night visitors, particularly strict visiting policies may indicate that a continuing care facility has something to hide. More about nursing home abuse and neglect is available on our web page.
