Kentucky AARP Calls for Changes To Protect Nursing Home Residents

The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically affected people all over the world. In the U.S., those who live and work in nursing homes have been where the virus is most prevalent. Nursing homes in Kentucky are no exception. According to Governor Beshear, more than 360 people have died in nursing homes during the pandemic. While smaller nursing homes may begin to slowly reintroduce visitors, there is demand from the Kentucky AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) for change in the response to the novel coronavirus.

What Does the AARP in Kentucky Want To See?

The AARP says that nursing homes are still in an emergency situation. Those in Kentucky and Indiana have contacted the AARP for help. Since the AARP is a nonpartisan advocacy group, they’re here to listen to these concerns and offer support in any way they can.

The AARP is calling for nursing homes to be able to provide PPE and testing. Personal protective equipment helps prevent germs from spreading. Examples of PPE include masks, which prevent individuals from spreading the virus from respiratory droplets, face shields, which can protect nurses and other staff members, goggles that protect the eyes, and items that protect the skin like gowns, aprons, and gloves.

Nursing homes also need to keep up with testing. This way, they can identify those who have COVID-19 and can take measures to provide them with care and to also protect others from contracting the virus from them. With these two key factors, they can improve the health and safety of residents and those who work there.

The group also pointed out the staffing issues at nursing homes. While this isn’t a new phenomenon in nursing homes, residents need to have access to those who will provide them with the care they need. Ombudsmen also need to have access to these communities so residents have another strong form of support.

There are currently proposals to provide nursing homes with legal immunity that will protect them from violations when dealing with COVID-19. However, the AARP doesn’t want this to happen. Nursing homes are responsible for their residents and they should have had procedures in place to deal with the virus. Nursing homes have struggled with controlling infections before the pandemic.

Virtual family visits are a safer option to help prevent the spread of germs and also allow families to communicate with their loved ones. While it’s difficult to stay away from your loved one during this time, there’s less of a chance of someone bringing the virus into the nursing home or getting infected while they’re there.

There also needs to be transparency about COVID-19 data. This includes case numbers, rights involving patient transfer, and how the homes are using federal relief to help their residents and staff. They also want to know if there are people who are asymptomatic and those who are presenting symptoms. They’re also looking for clear messages from the government on how states should proceed to handle the virus.

Was Your Loved One Harmed in Their Nursing Home?

Not being able to see your loved one in their nursing home can be incredibly difficult for families. It can also be tough to get updates about your loved one’s health because the staff working there are providing care for residents.

If your loved one was diagnosed with COVID-19, it may have been because there weren’t safety procedures in place to protect them. Thomas Law Offices can help you fight for your loved one’s rights.

In the tragic event your loved one passed because of COVID-19, you may be eligible to bring a wrongful death claim forward. Our lawyers will be at your side every step of the way.

While it can be difficult to seek justice for your loved one, holding the nursing home accountable for their actions may cause change to their protocols so this doesn’t happen to residents in the future.

You’ll also be able to seek compensation that can go toward your loved one’s medical expenses, living expenses, and pain and suffering. To find out more about your legal options, get in touch with our firm today.