The Maryland legislature is currently reviewing several bills aimed at improving the quality and accountability of the state’s nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Advocates for seniors are rallying behind these proposals, which focus on implementing stricter measures to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.
One of the key bills under consideration would require nursing homes and assisted living facilities to install video surveillance systems in common areas. Proponents believe this measure could help provide critical evidence in cases of neglect, abuse, or exploitation.
Another significant proposal seeks to increase the frequency of inspections for assisted living facilities, which are often less regulated than nursing homes.
Advocates Push for Higher Standards
Tammy Bresnahan, Senior Director of Advocacy for AARP Maryland, emphasized the importance of improving oversight in assisted living facilities. She noted that many of these centers now accommodate high-care residents, often resembling nursing homes in the level of care they provide.
“We’ve been focusing on assisted living facilities because they are increasingly taking in individuals with chronic health needs,” said Bresnahan. “They look a lot like nursing homes, but the funding for these facilities primarily comes from private customers rather than state or federal programs.”
Bresnahan explained that nursing homes benefit from multiple layers of accountability due to the state and federal Medicare dollars they receive. In contrast, assisted living centers lack similar oversight because their funding is largely private.
Lengthy Wait Times for Nursing Home Inspections
According to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Maryland has some of the longest wait times in the country for nursing home inspections—averaging nearly three years. This delay raises concerns about the quality of care provided to residents during these extended gaps between evaluations.
Bresnahan stressed the importance of conducting more regular inspections for assisted living facilities, as current regulations are insufficient.
“Right now, the regulations only require an inspection at the time of initial licensure,” Bresnahan explained. “If there’s a reported issue, inspectors must go out, but there’s no mandate for frequent, ongoing inspections. We want to see that change.”
Empowering Seniors with Information
Bresnahan encouraged Maryland seniors and their families to be proactive when choosing a nursing home or assisted living facility. She advised reaching out to the Maryland Office of Healthcare Quality, which can provide information about a facility’s history, including any past violations or complaints.
“It’s essential to do your research before making a decision,” she said. “Knowing a facility’s track record can help seniors avoid places with a history of neglect or poor care.”
Moving Toward Better Care
Advocates hope these legislative efforts will lead to stronger protections and improved living conditions for seniors in Maryland. With measures like increased inspections and video surveillance, the state aims to ensure greater accountability in facilities that care for some of its most vulnerable residents.
By addressing these issues, Maryland is taking steps toward creating a safer and more reliable environment for seniors in nursing homes and assisted living centers.
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