There are many challenges in nursing home care. Even when a facility is working hard to avoid issues with abuse and neglect, they may still drop the ball when it comes to nutrition.
Food is essential to survival. If your loved one is not getting the proper nutrients or enough food, it will negatively impact his or her health. You should monitor what he or she is eating if possible to make sure there is no risk for malnutrition. You also want to watch for signs of things that could lead to nutritional issues.
Mandatory requirements
The National Association of Nursing Home Attorneys explains the law mandates nursing homes to ensure they provide proper nutrition to patients. The nursing home has a responsibility to give your loved one a well-rounded diet that suits his or her nutritional needs. If you notice issues with the food or menus, you have the right to bring it to the attention of the staff and demand they fix it.
Misconception
One of the biggest reasons why malnutrition occurs is the stereotype that it is normal. It is never normal for any person to be malnourished. You should not accept excuses such as your loved one refuses to eat or will only eat certain foods.
If a situation like that occurs, the facility should alert you or a doctor because there is something more going on. It should never get to the place where your loved one is suffering nutritionally.
Failure to supplement
If your loved one has issues with eating, the nursing home should offer supplemental options. This may be a shake or a special diet. There should always be options. If the nursing home does not offer them, then you need to speak up and demand them.
The bottom line is your loved one should never suffer nutritional issues in a nursing home. There are plenty of solutions and no excuses for such a situation.
