How Can Malnutrition and Dehydration Affect Nursing Home Residents?

 Posted on August 03, 2023 in Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse

Nursing homes are meant to provide a safe and nurturing environment for elderly residents who require assistance with the activities of daily living and care and supervision from trained medical professionals. Unfortunately, instances of abuse and neglect in nursing homes are not uncommon, and in some cases, patients may experience malnutrition or dehydration. These conditions can have severe consequences on the health and well-being of elderly residents, leading to a decline in their overall quality of life. It is essential for nursing home patients and their families to be aware of the signs, causes, and legal ramifications associated with malnutrition and dehydration in nursing home facilities.

The Impact of Malnutrition

Malnutrition occurs when individuals do not receive adequate nutrients from their diet. In nursing homes, malnourishment often occurs due to improper meal planning, inadequate staffing levels, neglectful behavior by staff members, or underlying medical conditions that affect an individual's ability to eat or digest food correctly.

The effects of malnutrition on nursing home residents can be significant, and they may include:

• Physical decline

  Malnourished individuals may experience muscle weakness, fatigue, and weight loss. Malnutrition can lead to decreased bone density, which can increase the risk of falls and bone fractures. A person may also experience impaired immune function, making them more susceptible to infections such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections.

• Mental health issues

  Poor nutrition has been linked with cognitive impairments such as difficulty concentrating, memory problems, mood changes, the exacerbation of dementia symptoms, and mental confusion. In addition to impacting a person’s quality of life, these issues may lead to other issues, such as wandering and elopement.

• Delayed recovery

  Malnourished nursing home residents will often experience a longer healing process following surgeries or other medical procedures, leading to an extended period of discomfort and reduced quality of life.

If you suspect that your loved one may be suffering from malnutrition in a nursing home facility, it is crucial to take action immediately. A qualified nursing home abuse attorney can help protect the rights and well-being of your loved one while holding those responsible accountable for negligence that allowed malnutrition to occur.

The Consequences of Dehydration

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in. For elderly individuals residing in nursing homes, dehydration can be particularly dangerous due to age-related changes that affect their bodies' ability to regulate fluids adequately.

The effects of dehydration on nursing home residents can be severe, and they may include:

• Organ dysfunction

  Dehydration puts significant strain on vital organs such as the kidneys, liver, and heart. This can increase the risks of kidney failure, degradation of liver function, heart attacks, and other life-threatening health issues.

• Muscle weakness and cramps

  Lack of proper hydration can lead to muscle spasms and a loss of bodily strength, which can increase the risks of fall injuries.

• Cognitive impairment

  A person’s brain function can decline significantly when dehydration occurs. They may experience dizziness, confusion, delirium, fainting, or other serious issues that may affect their overall health and well-being.

• Infections and bedsores

  A lack of fluids can lead to a weakened immune system. This can cause nursing home residents to be more susceptible to infectious diseases, and they may develop pressure ulcers due to the combination of immobility and dry skin.

If you notice signs of dehydration in a loved one who is residing in a nursing home, it is important to address the issue promptly. An experienced attorney can help protect your loved one's rights and ensure that issues related to nursing home neglect will be addressed correctly.

Contact Our Winnebago County Nursing Home Malnutrition and Dehydration Attorneys

If you believe that your loved one has suffered from malnutrition or dehydration while residing in a nursing home facility, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. At Mannarino & Brasfield, A Division of Schwartz Jambois, our dedicated team of Rockford nursing home neglect lawyers has the knowledge and experience necessary to fight for the well-being of your loved one. We understand how devastating instances of neglect or abuse can be for nursing home residents and their families. We are committed to fighting on behalf of those who have suffered from malnutrition, dehydration, or other forms of nursing home negligence. Call us today at 815-215-7561 to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help with your case.