Malnutrition in Nursing Homes

Many residents suffer from malnutrition in California nursing homes.  Nursing homes are responsible to provide nutritious meals to residents in order to avoid any serious health problems.  Lack of proper nutrition can trigger health problems ranging from bed sores to heart disease.  Elderly adults need an adequate amount of food and hydration as well as vitamins and minerals to make them stronger.  Elderly malnutrition can have multiple causes including diminished appetite to a lack of healthy food.  When it occurs in a nursing home, it may be a sign of neglect.  

A healthy diet is very important as a person ages to prevent physical decline.  Nutritional needs, healthy meals, and snacks are required for nursing home residents and should be assessed regularly by nursing home staff.  Malnutrition is a sign of nursing home neglect and a sign that a resident is not receiving basic care and attention.  Bringing a tray of food to a resident does not guarantee adequate nutrition.  Many elderly patients are unable to feed themselves.  It is the responsibility of nursing home to assess the abilities of each resident and develop and implement plans to meet their individual needs. 

Malnutrition is usually caused by inadequate food intake, poor food choices, medication causing a lack of appetite, or poor nutrient absorption.  When serious, malnutrition can cause death due to starvation.  Some signs of malnutrition include:

• Pale lips
• Cracks around the mouth
• Tooth loss
• Hair falls out
• Lethargy
• Bed sores
• Skin problems
• Wounds 
• Mental confusion
• Loss of physical ability
• Sunken eyes
• Health decline

Malnutrition and dehydration can cause life threatening health problems which may include:

• Urinary track infections
• Memory loss and confusion
• Reduction of muscle mass
• Weakness

If you notice nursing signs of malnutrition in a loved one contact Attorney Joel Bryant for a free legal consultation.  Mr. Bryant will thoroughly investigate the cause of your loved one's health condition and hold the negligent accountable.  Mr. Bryant is ready to provide you with the best presentation possible and with his experience in nursing home negligence he will help you recover the compensation you deserve for pain and suffering or loss. Contact Attorney Joel Bryant today at (619) 239-7900.