Dehydration could be a sign of nursing home neglect

Nursing homes are supposed to be sanctuaries for the elderly and vulnerable. However, neglect in nursing homes is common — and is often due to understaffing and the prioritization of profits over care.

Nursing home residents may not be willing or even able to tell you when they are being abused or neglected, so it’s important to be on the lookout for signs that something is amiss. Dehydration is one of those signs.

Common symptoms of dehydration include irritability, being extremely thirsty, dry or chapped lips, fatigue, dizziness, and a dry mouth, among others. For seniors, dehydration can be especially dangerous.

Possible dehydration-related complications

Dehydration is a serious issue among the elderly. Elderly people may be predisposed to certain conditions such as kidney stones, and dehydration can lead to organ failure and seizures. Dehydration can also be fatal. That is why you should take swift action if you believe your loved one is dehydrated due to nursing home neglect.

Dehydration indicates that residents are not getting round-the-clock care

One of the main reasons people choose nursing home care for a loved one is that professional care is supposed to be available at all times. If your loved one is dehydrated, that almost certainly means the necessary care is not being provided.

The nursing home owes your loved one a duty of care, and if the nursing home fails to meet those obligations, there are legal avenues for holding the nursing home accountable.

To learn more about putting a stop to nursing home neglect in New Mexico, please see our Elder Abuse FAQ.