90% Of Nursing Homes Hire Criminals, Study Shows

In a March 2011 report, the Inspector General  For Health and Human Services found nearly half of nursing homes hired five or more individuals with criminal backgrounds.

In addition, the report found 5% of all nursing home employees have at least one criminal conviction.

The Inspector General ran background checks on more than 35,000 nursing home employees. Nearly half the convictions were for property crimes such as burglary, shoplifting and writing bad checks.

However the report found seven registered sex offenders employed in five separate nursing homes. No federal law or regulation specifically requires nursing homes to check federal or state criminal histories before hiring an employee, according the the Inspector General. 

Never a dull moment folks. Of further note, people ages 31 to 64 have entered nursing homes at a higher rate than those 65 and older in the past eight years, according to data from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid services.

The age group (31 to 64) has now climbed to over 14% of the nursing home population. Some states are showing even greater jumps in younger nursing home patients.

It's hard to pinpoint what's causing the trend. Few studies have been done and many states are just now noticing the changing age profile.

Emerging evidence shows that many younger nursing home residents have debilitating conditions caused by chronic diseases or traumatic injuries. Some have histories of mental illness and substance abuse.  Most cannot afford home care services and their families are unable to meet their medical needs.

Nursing homes also have to be concerned about safety because younger residents with substance abuse or mental health issues can pose a threat to older residents. Not all young people are in nursing homes for long term care (occupational therapy and physical therapy on a short term basis).

Interesting...At this point I'd like to thank those of you who called me with questions on the Free Medicine Program I mentioned on an earlier post. I enjoy responding to interested folks who need help/guidance/direction.

Lastly, a shout out to the fine professional staff at The Village of Niles Community Development/Building Dept. These folks work tirelessly to be sure new residents, such as myself, are in compliance with ordinances/permits etc along with a sincere effort to welcome new residents. Niles, in my view, is quite fortunate to have these fine people at the helm. Until next time....

                                           Glenn