Failure to Provide Individualized Sensory Activities for Cognitively Impaired Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with Alzheimer's disease, seizures, aphasia, mood disorder, and altered mental status, who was receiving end-of-life care, was repeatedly observed without access to independent leisure or sensory activities. Over several days, the resident was seen either in bed or in a Broda chair with her eyes closed, and there were no visual or auditory sensory activities present in her environment. The resident's care plan indicated a need for sensory-related activities and noted preferences for music, religious services, and fresh air, but these interventions were not consistently provided. Interviews with staff revealed that the resident was not regularly included in activity programs and typically received sensory activities only once a week due to limited staffing. The facility's policy required daily sensory stimulation for residents with low cognitive function, as well as regular musical and spiritual activities, but these were not implemented as outlined. Documentation and staff accounts confirmed that the resident's activity needs and preferences were not being met according to her care plan and facility policy.