Ohio’s nursing home abuse problem has long been rampant. We carefully watch the news for information that could affect clients and residents, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Two of the most recent developments have occurred within the last month: first, the state is easing guidelines for nursing home visits, and second, there are dozens of nursing homes refusing to disclose vaccination information. Both situations can have an effect on nursing home abuse cases. Read on to find out how you or your loved ones may be affected.
State Eases Guidelines for Nursing Home Visits
The COVID-19 pandemic has hit elderly residents hard. Not only did the virus run rampant through nursing homes and assisted living facilities, but workers are now stretched thin, exhausted, and have less time for residents. Families have spent the last year unable to visit their elderly relatives and friends in person.
However, as more Ohio residents receive the vaccine, the state has eased guidelines for nursing home visits. Most notably, this means that residents and visitors can see each other in person, including physical contact. It’s hard to overstate how important hugs and face-to-face contact are to someone who feels isolated.
This also gives concerned relatives a chance to observe the nursing home facilities and staff in person. If you’ve been worried that your relative is suffering from nursing home abuse, this is your chance to see what’s going on for yourself.
List of Nursing Homes Refusing to Disclose Vaccine Information
With the COVID-19 vaccine now available, you might assume nursing homes would be the first to get on board. After all, they take care of extremely vulnerable people. However, there are 56 nursing homes and 158 assisted living facilities that have refused to either request the vaccine or disclose what percentage of their workers and residents are vaccinated. While the vaccine isn’t mandated for healthcare workers, most people would feel more comfortable if they knew the caretakers were actively preventing viral spread.
If you have a loved one in one of the listed nursing homes, take note. That could factor into your nursing home abuse lawsuit. While refusing to disclose vaccination information or request the vaccine is likely not enough for a case in and of itself, it may be valuable information in a nursing home abuse case. Make sure to discuss your case with an Ohio attorney as soon as possible.
Talk to an Ohio Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Today
If you have an elderly family member who may be a victim of nursing home abuse, I will help you obtain compensation and hold the facility accountable. I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my firm at 877.944.4373 to learn more about how I can assist families in Ohio with nursing home negligence or abuse claims.