Additionally, as one's health deteriorates, one becomes more prone to getting bedsores. At least, that's what my mom observed while caring for her dying mother (cancer).
And people should realize that there are severe staffing shortages at these homes.
Yup. Even with circulating air mattresses and attentive care, pressure sores can happen. I cared for my Mom here and was very mindful of the possibility - we had the air mattress, I made sure to change her position often, applied barrier cream, etc. But still, I could see the areas where her skin was starting to break down. It's a relatively natural - albeit unfortunate - process.
All that said, even with the reality that pressure sores tend to escalate in severity quite rapidly, if one is present with any regularity, it would be impossible to not notice their loved one and/or their bedding not being regularly changed/washed. Which would be the point to step in - either by involving the ombudsman/reporting neglect, making a point of being more present more often, and/or moving their LO to a different facility. Right or wrong, the reality is that a more active family presence tends to result in more attention from staff.
Plus, yes, staffing shortages, turnover, poor pay all play into the problems seen in nursing facilities.
