Nursing home negligence is a pervasive problem, with nearly 200,000 cases reported every year. However, those statistics likely understate the severity of the issue, as many victims might be afraid or unwilling to report their experiences. If you’re looking for a long-term care facility for your aging family members, here are a few tips to help you find the safest environment possible.

3 Tips for Finding a Safe Nursing Home

1. Visit Several Facilities

The best nursing facility for your elderly loved ones might not be the closest, so visit several locations before making a decision. During your inspection, take note of the conditions in the rooms and common areas. Are they clean and well-maintained? Do there appear to be enough staff members to provide residents with the appropriate care? You might also want to visit the cafeteria and sample the food and speak with current residents about their experiences, if possible.

2. Pay Attention to the Staff

When residents call for help or need attention, how do the staff members respond? They should address each individual by name and have patience when dealing with people with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Finding out how often the staff members work overtime or double shifts can help determine whether a facility you’re considering is understaffed, a common cause of nursing home negligence.

3. Investigate Complaint Histories

Almost every nursing home has been subject to at least a few complaints of abuse or negligence, but a pattern of behavior and unresolved issues might point to an unsafe environment. The federal government and state agencies make complaint histories available to the public, so do some research before visiting. During your tour, ask the administrator how these complaints were resolved and what steps they’ve taken to prevent nursing home negligence in the future.

If you suspect that your loved one has experienced nursing home negligence, a skilled attorney can protect their rights and help collect compensation for their losses. For nearly 40 years, Egan & Richgels, S.C. has provided high-quality legal aid to clients throughout La Crosse, WI, building a reputation as lawyers dedicated to helping people. Follow their Facebook page for news and updates, and call (608) 784-0087 or visit them online to schedule a consultation with a member of their team.