COVID-19 has highlighted nursing home abuse in Canada

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has placed long-term care homes under the microscope, with politicians, government authorities, and the general public pushing for better care of Ontario’s aging population. The pandemic has unfortunately highlighted many of the shortcomings of long-term care homes, along with nursing home abuse. This is a catastrophic problem for all Canadians and has ultimately reduced the quality of life for many of our loved ones.

A recent survey suggests that more than 95 percent of Canadians ages 65 and older say they will do everything they can to avoid moving into a long-term care home. The survey conducted in March of 2021 was released by the National Institute on Ageing and the Canadian Medical Association. It also states that 85% of Canadians share the same sentiment.

As a country, Canada must address the issues with eldercare and the abuse that was highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nursing home abuse statistics in Canada

As of Canada’s last census, it was reported that well over 160,000 Canadians were living in long-term care or assisted living homes. The number has steadily increased year over year, with the pandemic, unfortunately, causing havoc among residents. The virus itself caused widespread death with many care homes unable to control the spread of the virus.

The pandemic highlighted what many have called an embarrassing standard of living for those in long-term care in Canada. Many nursing homes experienced incredible loss among residents, with the Canadian military having to assist many homes as they struggled to maintain operations and reduce further outbreaks. Reports from the military highlighted the horrific conditions of many nursing homes, putting a spotlight on neglect and abuse that must be addressed in the future.

Canada must push to do better to help improve the standard of living for the aging population and ensure that the elderly have proper care across the country. An entire rethinking of eldercare is needed, and neglect and abuse must be stamped out in nursing homes across the province.

Defining Nursing home abuse and neglect in long-term care settings

Nursing home abuse is considered any form of harm that is inflicted on residents by the caretakers that manage or work in long-term care facilities. Neglect and abuse can be both intentional and unintentional and come in many forms, both physical and verbal.

Keep an eye on your loved ones living in long-term care settings to ensure they’re properly cared for. If you spot any of these signs, it could be a sign of trouble.

Extensive and unexplained dehydration
Unexplained broken bones or injuries
Ongoing infections that aren’t properly addressed
Missing or misplaced medications
Broken reading glasses
Malnutrition and significant weight loss
Rope or other suspicious marks around wrists
General fear of staff or refusal to be left alone with staff
Unexplained bruising or scars
Isolation and refusal to let residents interact with each other
Resident complaints
Emotional manipulation and abuse
Evidence of sexual abuse

Should any of these signs present themselves, it could mean that a resident is experiencing abuse from the staff.

Nursing home abuse cases handled by De Rose Lawyers

De Rose Lawyers is experienced at handling the troubling issue of nursing home abuse in Ontario. Should you or a loved one experience nursing home abuse of any kind, it’s important to contact De Rose Lawyers immediately. Your loved ones deserve so much better, and these cases are best handled by experienced lawyers who can fight for the quality of life your loved ones deserve.

You aren’t alone during these difficult times. Call us now to learn more about how De Rose can address the complicated matters of nursing home abuse in Ontario.