A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association warns that sick elderly patients that are hospitalized with sepsis have a higher chance of developing serious cognitive issues and suffer from abnormal physical decline during later years. The researchers that conducted the study also determined that sepsis may be the cause of some 20,000 new dementia cases among seniors belonging to the 65 years and older age group.
Sepsis
Sepsis can occur in response to an infection in the body. It can be especially dangerous for an elderly person or someone with a very weak immune system. Other people at risk of developing sepsis are hospital patients, people with medical conditions, and those with serious injuries. Boston nursing home neglect, abuse, and negligent nursing care can place someone at higher risk of developing sepsis.
It is inexcusable for someone to develop sepsis and/or die because nursing home workers did not change his/her wound dressings, prevent bedsores from developing, or ensure that the assisted living facility is a clean and healthy environment. If you believe that Boston negligent nursing care contributed to your loved one getting hurt, sick, or dying, our Massachusetts injury lawyers would like you to contact us immediately to request you free case evaluation.
Symptoms of Sepsis:
• Serious shaking
• Chills • Fever • Agitation • Dizziness • Disorientation • Confusion • Skin rash • Joint pains
According to Llewellyn DJ and his colleagues from the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom, low vitamin D levels can play a role in the worsening decline experienced by elderly patients that have suffered from sepsis. Other studies indicate that low vitamin D in a person has been linked to dementia. There are steps that can be taken to make sure that elderly nursing home patients maintain high vitamin D levels.
Could vitamin D deficiency explain sepsis risk in elderly people?, FoodConsumer, October 27, 2010
Study: Sepsis has long-term impact on older adults, MSNBC, October 26, 2010
Related Web Resources:
Sepsis Overview, Cleveland Clinic
Journal of the American Medical Association
Our Boston nursing home neglect and abuse lawyers have helped many victims and their families recover personal injury recovery from negligent nursing homes.