Nursing Home Falls Can Be Caused by Malnutrition and Dehydration

 Posted on June 20, 2024 in Nursing Home Abuse

It is well known that falls are one of the most common and serious problems faced by residents in nursing homes across Illinois. Among the various factors that contribute to these dangerous incidents, malnutrition, and dehydration play a pivotal role. These conditions can lead to muscle weakness, disorientation, and other debilitating health issues, increasing the risk of falls for vulnerable elderly residents. If your loved one was injured in a fall at his or her nursing home facility, contact a no-nonsense attorney to pursue the compensation your loved one may be entitled to.

Muscle Weakness and Loss of Balance

One of the primary consequences of malnutrition is muscle weakness. When nursing home residents do not receive proper nutrients, their muscles can lose strength. This loss of muscle mass directly impacts their ability to maintain balance and perform everyday activities without assistance. Even simple tasks such as standing up from a chair or walking to the bathroom can become exceedingly difficult and hazardous. In Illinois nursing homes, ensuring residents receive a nutritionally balanced diet is critical for preventing muscle deterioration and reducing fall risks.

Disorientation and Cognitive Impairment

Dehydration can have severe implications for cognitive function, often leading to disorientation and confusion. When a resident is dehydrated, his or her brain can become significantly impaired, making it difficult for them to focus, make decisions, or even recognize where he or she is. This mental fog increases the likelihood of falls, as disoriented residents may stumble, trip over objects, or become unaware of potential hazards in their environment. Meanwhile, inadequate hydration can also worsen existing cognitive disorders, such as dementia. As a result, the risk of a dangerous fall occurring becomes even greater.

Blood Pressure Fluctuations

Another condition made worse by malnutrition and dehydration is unstable blood pressure. Proper hydration and nutrition are crucial for maintaining stable blood pressure levels. When residents are malnourished and dehydrated, they may experience sudden drops or spikes in blood pressure, leading to dizziness and fainting spells. Nursing homes need to pay close attention to the dietary and hydration needs of residents to prevent these dangerous fluctuations and associated falls.

Contact a Chicago, IL Nursing Home Falls Attorney

Preventing falls in a nursing home requires a comprehensive approach that takes into consideration the nutritional requirements of residents. If your loved one is receiving substandard care and, as a result, has injured themselves in a fall, contact the Cook County, IL nursing home falls lawyers with Schwartz Injury Law. Call 312-535-4625 for a free consultation.