Nursing Home Patients Need Protection

AARP Oklahoma wants to ensure that residents in the state’s nursing facilities receive proper care and attention.

Last year a study from AARP’s Public Policy Institute found that Oklahoma’s nursing facilities had the second-highest rate in the U.S. of residents at high risk for pressure sores. Such sores are worrisome because they can lead to dangerous infections.

Oklahoma also ranked first in the nation in the use of antipsychotic medications for patients without a psychiatric diagnosis. AARP Oklahoma is working with lawmakers on several bills, known as the Creating Accountability, Reform and Excellence in nursing homes (CARE) plan, to provide better protections.

To show support for these efforts, members can call their state senator at 844-248-8227 or their state representative at 844-248-8226.