KMOX recently reported on a recent incident at a University City nursing home, where residents endured unsanitary conditions, including a bug infestation. The story underscores a critical failure in protecting long-term care residents. Such situations are not just lapses in care. They’re also violations of the fundamental rights that residents of long-term care facilities are entitled to under federal and state laws.
Elder Justice and How to Seek Help in Missouri
Elder justice is the effort to prevent, detect, and respond to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Ensuring that older adults live with dignity and respect is paramount. If you or someone you love experiences abuse, reach out to one of the resources below.
- Missouri Adult Protective Services (APS): APS investigates reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of adults who cannot protect themselves. They are a critical resource for those in immediate need. If you or someone you know is facing abuse, call the Missouri APS hotline at 1-800-392-0210.
- Coalition for Justice for Elders and Disabled Adults (CJEDA): VOYCE is proud to be a member of the CJEDA. This statewide, multidisciplinary group works together to prevent elder abuse in our state and seek justice for those who have been abused.
- Division of Regulation and Licensure (DRL): The Department of Health and Senior Services division is responsible for state oversight of nursing homes. At the last inspection in May 2024, surveyors noted 16 violations. They included frequent medication errors, inaccurate records on resident advanced directives, and repeatedly missing a resident’s dialysis appointment. The number of violations found is far ahead of the national average of 9.5.
The Role of Ombudsmen in Ensuring Safety in Nursing Homes
In cases like the one at the University City nursing home, the role of an ombudsman is crucial. Ombudsmen advocate for residents in long-term care facilities, ensuring their rights are respected and their voices heard. They investigate complaints, provide information about residents’ rights, and help resolve issues affecting quality of life and care. Ombudsmen serve as a critical lifeline for residents who cannot advocate for themselves. An ombudsman ensures issues like these are addressed promptly and effectively.
Long-Term Care Resident Rights Violated
Residents in long-term care facilities have specific rights guaranteed under the Nursing Home Reform Act. These include the right to live in a safe, clean, and dignified environment. The presence of bugs and the neglect to address such a critical issue violates several of these rights, including:
- Right to Dignity: Residents are entitled to respect and dignity. Living in a bug-infested environment is a gross violation of this right.
- Right to Quality Care and a Home-Like Environment: Nursing homes must strive to meet each resident’s highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being. The failure to maintain a clean environment clearly falls short of this standard.
- Right to Be Free from Abuse and Neglect: Allowing unsanitary conditions to persist can be considered a form of neglect, which is a violation of residents’ rights. Safety in nursing homes means quality care.
We All Have a Role to Ensure Safety in Nursing Homes
The situation at the University City nursing home is a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, advocacy, and the protection of resident rights. By empowering residents, supporting ombudsmen, and promoting elder justice, we can ensure that every older adult receives the dignified care they deserve. If you or a loved one is facing similar issues, remember that help is available, and you do not have to navigate this journey alone.