The human body needs food and water to survive. As people age, many of their systems weaken and do not perform as well. Older people become dehydrated more quickly. Their sense of thirst is less acute as they age. Kidney function decreases and the ability to conserve fluids diminishes. Elderly people even have a harder time getting up to get a drink. As the years pass, those who are reaching their golden years tend to turn to nursing homes to provide the medical care they need. When a nursing home staff neglect to provide the nutrition that residents need and deserve and people suffer because of it, negligence can be a factor. If you believe that your loved one is being neglected, it is important to discuss your case with an experienced nursing home dehydration lawyer. Contact Trombly & Singer, PLLC for a consultation.
Health Conditions May Contribute To Dehydration
Certain conditions can contribute to dehydration, including high blood sugar from diabetes and various conditions that cause difficulty swallowing or eating. Individuals in a declining state of health may not be able to communicate their state effectively. People with Alzheimer’s or dementia often neglect their own physical needs.
Symptoms of Dehydration
The nursing home staff has an obligation to watch for signs of dehydration. If they do not provide adequate care, it could be considered neglect. Caregivers and loved ones must be on the lookout for:
- Sudden weight loss
- Increased heart rate
- Decreased urination
- Urinary tract infection
- Headaches
- Cramps
- Tingling in the feet and hands
- Fatigue
- Failure to drink fluids with meals
- Failure to drink water
- Dark yellow urine
- Bleeding gums
- Sunken eyes
- Bedsores/pressure ulcers
- Dry skin
Consequences Of Dehydration
The consequences of dehydration are dire. It can lead to dizziness, fainting, falls, pneumonia, and a range of infections, some of which can lead to death. It is important to check for signs that your loved one is getting the care they need. When they are not, contact an attorney to discuss the validity of a medical malpractice case.
Contact a Washington D.C. Nursing Home Dehydration Lawyer
Most nursing homes and their staff do care about their residents and work hard to keep them healthy. There are some that are simply incompetent or too concerned with keeping costs down to hire and train adequate staff. Dehydration is an avoidable condition for the most part. When the staff of a nursing home does not provide adequate care for your loved one, you and your loved one may be entitled to compensation. Trombly & Singer, PLLC is an experienced law firm serving the greater Washington D.C. area. Our firm handles a wide range of nursing home neglect cases. If you need an effective law firm to fight for your future, contact Trombly & Singer, PLLC for a consultation today.
