Elderly residents in nursing homes are under-monitored more often than we would like to think. As the Baby Boomer generation ages and begins to require more intensive medical care, the number of residents in New York City nursing homes continues to rise. 

This increased number of residents in facilities is bound to make overcrowding and under-monitoring more of an issue in the future. As such, this could lead to an increased rate of injuries due to accidents and neglect.

Under-Monitoring is a Form of Abuse

A nursing home resident is under-monitored when staff does not attend to that resident’s needs and prevent accidents from occurring. Information from the New York City Department of Aging defines under-monitoring as a form of elder abuse.

As the number of residents in New York nursing homes continues to grow, the resources of these facilities and staff will continue to stretch. Incidents that occur because of under-monitoring will also continue to rise.

Potential Consequences of Under-Monitoring Nursing Home Residents

These incidents can have a devastating impact on a resident’s immediate and future health. Common examples of injuries and conditions that may arise as a consequence of under-monitoring include:

• Bedsores from a lack of repositioning
• Malnutrition or dehydration
• Falling out of bed
• Slip or trip and falls accidents in the facility
• Choking during mealtimes

Talking with our legal team could provide more information about under-monitoring and how it may have played a role in your loved one’s injuries.