Last evening, I attended a discussion with individuals who were social workers, case managers, and registered nurses. They examined the many challenges older adults face when admitted to the hospital from nursing homes. Many are black and brown elderly patients with minimum to no family interaction(out of sight, out of mind). The first discussion that caught my attention was the admission of elders from nursing homes to the hospital. The report of the stated conditions(foul smells, bedsores, dirty fingernails, and poor foot care) was gut-wrenching. How do we address this? Why should we address this? Everyone deserves to be cared for in a meaningful and respected way. Our most vulnerable are top of the list.
The discussion is not about bashing nursing homes. They have their place in society. But you have to ask who is caring for our loved ones and if they are caring as if our family member is their family member. Should we define the word “care” in these facilities? Nursing home employees must manage the physical and mental responsibilities of elders who honestly cannot care for themselves. You have heard me say many times before…if they could, they would!
There was so much conversation about how overwhelming it is to work in a nursing home. The role is demanding, and often, there are not enough hands to care for the population. Caring for the elderly with painful contractures, paralysis, unable to feed themselves, and fragile were repeated themes. Sending the elder back to the facility they presented from, I sensed a tone of sadness.
When I asked about solutions, my first response was family accountability, presence, and seeking resources. Checking on loved ones who are placed is mandatory, without exception. While affordability can be a huge concern, hiring someone to check in on a loved one is an option.
I shared a few resources I felt would be of benefit. I feel comfortable with the services and expertise they provide and know they would be helpful. We live in a technological society, and access to resources and individuals who are caregiving experts are at our fingertips.
Resources to consider:
Caregiver Support Services -https://www.caregiversupportservices.com/
OdessaConnect- https://odessaconnect.tv/who-we-serve/
CareSmartz360-https://www.caresmartz360.com/
Caregiver Action Network (National Family Caregiver Association)-https://www.caregiveraction.org/
AARP-https://www.aarp.org/
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, our loved ones must be provided quality care despite the healthcare facility where care is provided. When care is needed within a facility post-hospitalization, there are resources and expert professionals who can be your guide. However, it should be reported to the proper authority when sub-standard care is uncovered. Be Safe! Be Well!
Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman, a retired registered nurse and case manager, is the CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate. She has released several books, including The Essential Caregiver Training Course for Corporations and Community, From the Lens of Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor, and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers.