March 1, 2011 – The American Geriatrics Society (AGS), in partnership with the British Geriatrics Society, for the first time in 10 years has released an update to their guidelines for preventing falling accidents in elderly patients. An article in the New York Times provides details about the update, which contains two notable changes in their recommendations; one homeopathic and one medical. The addition of Tai Chi exercises is discussed as a low-impact, healthy way to improve balance and coordination to prevent falls in the elderly. The other notable aspect of the updated guidelines asks doctors to review medication that may cause stability and coordination complications. Previous guidelines did not address exercise regimens as a potential method of reducing nursing home falls and falls in the elderly. The guidelines from 2001 also did not endorse prescription reviews to combat stability problems unless the resident was taking 4 or more medications. The new guidelines seek to promote better personal control for nursing home residents to prevent falls on their own. Advancing personal care directives is not always enough. If the nursing home staff is not diligent in monitoring patients’ mobility needs they may still be prone to falling accidents. Nursing homes should regularly monitor their residents to ensure they are getting the assistance necessary to remain mobile at their facility. If a resident is not provided with adequate assistance such as lift assists, wheelchairs, and walkers, the nursing home staff can be cited for negligence. If your loved one has suffered a falling injury while in the care of a nursing home you may be able to hold the facility liable for the mistreatment of your family member. Contact a New York nursing home abuse attorney today for help in reviewing and settling your claim.
Contacting a New York Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
At Gacovino Lake & Associates we have formed a dedicated network of nursing home abuse attorneys to serve clients nationwide for their injury claims. Our New York office serves residents of the 5 boroughs with their auto accident, medical malpractice, defective product, premises liability, and Workers’ Compensation claims. For experienced help when filing your nursing home abuse claim, contact us today – 1-800-246-4878.
