Most elder abuse laws remain in effect, but one is changing and it’s upsetting many families. In the latter months of 2017, these changes became apparent. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid is less likely to fine assisted living communities and nursing homes that injure resident or have deficiencies that put seniors at risk of harm.

The move comes in part from petitions filed by the American Health Care Association. The lobbyist group wanted the government to stop issuing fines when assisted living and nursing homes had violations. They feel that if there are no fines, senior care facilities will be able to work with the government to make improvements instead.

What Does This Mean for Your Parents?

If your parents get help at home, this change won’t likely affect you. It will change things for elderly men and women who live in an assisted living community. If a facility has done something wrong, they’ll unlikely be penalized, especially if it’s a first offense.

There’s another main concern. There’s also a proposal that would prevent seniors and their family members from having the right to sue a nursing home or assisted living community. If this proposal passes, it would be a second hit against families who want to keep their parents safe from elder abuse and errors in care.

If something happens, instead of having the right to sue, a private panel would look into the claim and decide on a settlement. Arbitration is meant to save money, but experts feel it is less effective at getting the agency to change any errors that were made.

What Can You Do?

It’s especially important now to make sure your parents are in the best possible place. Home care makes this possible. Your parents stay at home while getting the help they need to complete activities of daily living. Home care may require a little input and management from you.

With home care, you want to be part of your parents’ care plan. You want to know what they’re doing, issues the professional caregiver has, and needs that must be addressed. Your mom and dad’s needs may change, and you want to maintain regular communication with the senior care agency to make sure your parents get the care they need.

Caregivers perform many daily tasks, all depending on what your mom or dad needs. If they can’t cook meals, caregivers can step in and cook meals and snacks. Caregivers help with laundry, housework, and medication reminders. Learn more by calling a senior care agency.

Sources:

https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Provider-Enrollment-and-Certification/SurveyCertificationGenInfo/Downloads/Survey-and-Cert-Letter-18-01.pdf

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/888526

If you or an aging senior are considering hiring in-home senior care in Argyle, TX, please contact the caring staff at Ray of Sunshine today! (940) 442-5374.

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Cynthia Ferris

Owner at Ray of Sunshine Senior Care

Cynthia has a long history of serving others. As she and her husband traveled the US and overseas while he served in the military, Cynthia worked in a variety of public service positions with city governments and non-profits. After her husband retired, they returned to the DFW area to be closer to family. As an only child, Cynthia was preparing to help care for her aging parents but was stunned when both parents were diagnosed with cancer.

At the same time, she and her husband were faced with the care of his father on the west coast which presented the unique challenges of long-distance care. These events led to a crash course in the senior care industry and her unending dedication to helping seniors and families in similar circumstances. When not working Cynthia enjoys cooking, gardening and traveling with a focus on visiting State and National Parks.

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