In an assisted living facility in New York State, tensions ran high as residents waited for lunchtime. One frustrated woman even resorted to pushing her walker into another resident who was not moving fast enough, as observed by a researcher.
Similarly, in Salisbury, Md., a woman with dementia had unsettling encounters with another resident who repeatedly entered her room in the middle of the night. Despite not causing any harm, the resident’s daughter felt that her mother’s privacy was being violated and reported the incidents to the administrators.
These incidents are just a glimpse of the personal conflicts and potential violence that can occur in long-term care facilities. Residents may engage in verbal abuse, threats, invasion of personal space, and even physical altercations. In some extreme cases, such conflicts have resulted in resident deaths over the years.
Eilon Caspi, a gerontologist at the University of Connecticut, has studied such incidents and found 105 resident deaths in long-term care facilities attributed to conflicts with other residents. However, he believes that the actual number could be higher as not all cases receive media coverage or detailed reports to the authorities.
To address these issues, experts recommend better staffing and training in long-term care facilities. Adequate staffing levels can help de-escalate conflicts and provide more personalized care to residents, reducing the likelihood of tensions boiling over. Training programs for staff members can also equip them with the necessary skills to handle difficult situations and prevent potential violence.
By prioritizing the well-being and safety of residents, long-term care facilities can create a more peaceful and supportive environment for the elderly. It is essential for administrators to address conflicts promptly, protect residents’ privacy, and promote a culture of respect and understanding among residents and staff members.
Navigating personal conflicts and violence in long-term care requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders involved, from caregivers and family members to administrators and policymakers. With a focus on communication, empathy, and proactive intervention, the quality of life for elderly residents in long-term care facilities can be greatly improved.