How to Ensure Your Elderly Mother Receives Proper Care in a Long-Term Care Home
Q. My elderly mother was recently placed in a local long-term care home. How can I ensure that she will be treated with the care she requires?
A. If your mother is residing in a long-term care home, there has been a realization that she is no longer capable of living independently. The resident’s care plan is the most important document associated with her stay. Within 24 hours of your mother’s admission, an initial care plan was created and communicated to the staff. Your mother then undergoes assessments to determine her physical abilities, behavioural issues, medical needs, nutritional and medication requirements and any age related, cultural or religious preferences. A complete and a full written care plan is required within six weeks. This plan must be reviewed twice a year.
You should request a copy of the plan and observe whether the home and staff are complying. You should also request that you be made aware of any updates and suggest any changes to the plan identified by any supplementary caregivers. If you believe that the home is not in compliance with the plan, you can file a complaint with the Ministry of Long-Term Care.
If your loved one has been subjected to neglect or abuse in a long-term care facility, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer who has experience in nursing home liability to assist you in protecting your loved one’s rights.
This article was originally published by The Hamilton Spectator.
