The current COVID-19 pandemic has spurred many extraordinary measures in an attempt to “flatten the curve” of spreading the virus. Many businesses are closed while others are working modified schedules with extreme sanitation protocols in place. Healthcare facilities are particularly stringent in their containment methods in order to protect patients and staff.
Among these healthcare facilities, nursing homes and senior living centers have also enacted strict policies with a view toward protecting residents. These seniors are among some of the highest at risk for contracting the coronavirus due to existing health issues and compromised immune systems. Therefore, nursing home staff are limiting visitors and taking other measures as recommended by the CDC.
The Underlying Stress on Families
While completely understandable in principle, strict visitation policies at Florida nursing homes are adding layers of stress to families that are already worried about elderly loved ones. While the guideline of one visitor at a time may seem prudent, unbending rules can cause undue stress. Imagine the situation where a loved one is close to dying, and yet family members are restricted to only one at a time visits.
In many cases, some family members with their own health issues are banned completely from visiting loved ones. Picture an elderly wife with multiple health issues being denied the privilege of being at her husband’s bedside as he approaches death. These sad scenarios are being played out in real lives all across Florida and the United States.
The Ugly Fact of Nursing Home Negligence and Abuse
Other rising concerns are connected to negligence and abuse. It is a sad but immutable fact that neglect and abuse occur in Florida nursing homes. Ligori & Ligori Attorneys at Law has investigated and helped many families with nursing home abuse and neglect cases. While distasteful, these heinous crimes cannot be allowed to continue.
Stricter visitation policies due to the COVID-19 pandemic can shield neglect and abuse from families. As heightened tensions and stress become the norm among healthcare workers, cases of neglect and abuse are almost certain to proliferate. Nursing home residents are among the most helpful of all Florida residents and need our protection. Fewer family members being allowed to visit and shorter visitation periods must not provide a barrier to protect abusive and/or negligent practices or activities.
If you suspect neglect or abuse of a loved one in a Florida nursing home or senior care facility, contact the offices of Ligori & Ligori Attorneys at Law. With offices in Tampa, Lakeland and Ocala, we can easily serve your family during this time of crisis. We are on the job to serve our clients and all residents of Florida who have pressing legal matters.
Although Florida courts are working a curtailed schedule, essential matters are still being handled by attorneys and the courts. These include protection orders and matters that affect health, safety and liberty. We have the professional skills and experience to handle your case while protecting your health during the current health crisis. Call us today or send a message online if you suspect nursing home abuse or neglect.
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