A common form of Illinois nursing home neglect becomes apparent in extreme weight loss of residents. Many family members are startled to see their loved ones seemingly wither away before their eyes while in long term care. While this may be caused by a variety of reasons, it is sometimes indicative of a less than proper diet.

What can you do?

An Illinois nursing home negligence lawyer recommends you first speak with the dietician of the facility, in addition to the Director of Nursing. From a regulatory standpoint – a patient must have been evaluated physically before being admitted to the facility, and the facility must make every effort to ensure good nutritional health. This, of course, includes well-balanced meals. Do your best to ensure your loved one’s dietary plan meets his or her physician’s recommendations.

Keep in mind there are a variety of causes for weight loss in elderly people other than poor diet. It could be attributed to physical causes related to depression or other illnesses, or even a swallowing disorder. Weight loss may also be due to environmental causes which you should always look for, and ask the Director of Nursing to evaluate with you. This could include inadequate attention from the staff or low staffing ratios (the percentage of staff to patients).

As always, you should plan on attending the care plan conference for your loved one, so you can stay involved in his or her plan of care.

If you believe you or a loved one were the victim of Illinois nursing home neglect or abuse, contact a Chicago nursing home abuse attorney. If you live in Illinois, nursing home negligence lawyers can help you seek justice for abuse, and prevent further harm from occurring.

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