Photo by Dominik Lange on Unsplash

Planning a trip often involves a lengthy checklist. For families with elderly parents or relatives, preparations go beyond passports and luggage. One of the biggest concerns is making sure your loved ones are safe, comfortable, and properly cared for while you are away. Whether you are travelling for work or leisure, placing seniors in the care of others, especially in nursing homes, requires careful planning and consideration. This article breaks down some of the factors you should consider.

Choosing the Right Care Option

Families often consider different care options before hitting the road. These include in-home caregivers, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes. Each choice has its benefits and drawbacks, so knowing what will work best for your situation is important. To make the right decision, visit the facility in advance and watch how staff treat residents.

Observing everyday interactions can tell you a lot about the level of care. You should also review state inspection reports to see if the facility has a history of violations or complaints. Ask questions about staff-to-resident ratios, especially during evenings and weekends when staffing may be limited. Gathering this information will give you confidence that your loved one is entering a safe and trustworthy environment.

Staying Connected While You Travel

Even when you are traveling, technology makes it easier to stay in touch. Families often use video calls or phone check-ins to get regular updates from caregivers. Some facilities also allow monitoring apps that provide real-time information about a resident’s health and daily activities. These simple measures help you remain involved in your loved one’s care. They also provide comfort to seniors who may feel uneasy while you are away.

Recognizing the Red Flags of Poor Care

Unfortunately, not all care facilities treat residents with the dignity and respect they deserve. Families should be mindful of the warning signs of poor care. If you notice any of these issues, do not ignore them:

• Unexplained injuries, frequent falls, or bruises.
• Sudden changes in mood, withdrawal, or fear of certain staff members.
• Declining hygiene, signs of malnutrition, or untidy living spaces.

Knowing Your Legal Options

If a loved one suffers mistreatment in a nursing home, it is important to know that families are not without recourse. Many people are unsure of what steps to take or whether anything can actually be done. Nursing home abuse lawsuits can hold negligent facilities accountable and provide justice for victims.

By filing a lawsuit, families can pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other costs that result from abuse or neglect. Just as importantly, these lawsuits can bring hidden problems into the open, forcing nursing homes to change unsafe practices. In many cases, legal action has led to stronger policies, better staff training, and closer inspections that protect not only your loved one but also other residents.

Endnote

Travel should bring excitement and joy, not constant worry. By carefully researching care facilities, staying connected while away, and knowing your legal rights, you can protect elderly family members even when you cannot be with them. If you suspect mistreatment, trust your instincts and take action quickly. By knowing the signs, staying vigilant, and using the legal tools available, you can safeguard your loved one’s dignity and well-being while you’re away.

John Mali Director of Media Relations

Director of Media Relations at AboutBoulder.com

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