A newly released report confirms what most of us already suspected - that nursing home abuse is a very serious problem. The study reports that over 91% of surveyed nursing homes in the United States were deficient in their quality of care over the past three years.

Bad nursing homes

According to a September 2008 Department of Health & Human Services study, over 91% of nursing homes surveyed were sited for deficiencies in the past three years. The most common deficiency categories cited were quality of care, resident assessment and quality of life. In fact, the study reported that 17% of nursing homes surveyed in 2007 were cited for actual harm or immediate jeopardy deficiencies.

Common deficiencies

The study provided the following information on each of the categories listed as having the most common deficiencies:

• Quality of care. Almost 74% of nursing homes surveyed were cited for quality-of-care deficiencies. The most common deficiencies involved accident hazards; providing care for residents' highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being; and urinary incontinence.
• Resident Assessment. About 58% of nursing homes were cited for resident assessment deficiencies. The most common deficiencies involved services meeting professional quality standards, comprehensive care plans and service provision by qualified persons.
• Quality of life. Over 43% of nursing homes were cited for quality of-life deficiencies. The most common deficiencies involved housekeeping and maintenance services, dignity and accommodation of needs.

Private sector worse than non-profit

The study also reported that nursing homes in the private sector had worse track records than non-profits - but not by much. If fact, in 2007, 94% of private, for-profit, nursing homes surveyed were cited for deficiencies, compared to 88% of non-profit and 91% of government nursing homes. To view the report, click here.

As you can, these statistics don't provide consumers with much confidence in elder care options. If your loved one is in a nursing home, assisted living facility, receives in home day care or spends the day in an adult day care center, it's important to make sure that they are getting the care and respect that they deserve. If they are not, contact an attorney whose practice focuses in nursing home abuse to discuss your situation. Consultations are free, without obligation and are strictly confidential.