Families place their trust in nursing homes and assisted living facilities to provide safe, attentive care to their loved ones. But behind the reassuring brochures and polished websites, not all care is equal -- and not all care is safe. 

One of the most dangerous trends is the reliance on standardized care plans. These cookie-cutter approaches may look efficient on paper, but in reality, they often fail the very people they are meant to protect. Lojewski Abuse & Injury Law's Founder, Attorney Kristen Lojewski, has represented numerous families whose loved ones suffered serious harm because a facility failed to create or follow a truly individualized care plan. 

Why Individualized Care is Non-Negotiable

Every resident in a long-term care facility brings their own history, medical needs, personality, preferences and risks. No two people are alike -- and no two care plans should be either. 

Whether someone is living with dementia, a physical disability, chronic medical conditions, mental health needs, or recovering after surgery, standardized care puts residents at risk. 

Real Risks of Standardized Care:

Missed or incorrect medications because dosing is not adjusted for medical history.

Behavioral issues misunderstood or ignored, leading to isolation or restraint. 

Mobility risks such as falls or pressure sores, due to lack of supervision, equipment, staffing, or training. 

Nutritional dangers like choking or dehydration, when dietary needs aren't followed. 

Emotional distress from being forced into routines that don't fit the resident's habits, personality, or beliefs. 

These are not rare occurrences. Avoidable injuries or even death can occur simply because the facility failed to create or follow a care plan tailored to the individual. 

Wisconsin Law Requires Individualized Care Plans

Under Wisconsin law, facilities are required to provide care that is personalized and responsive to each resident's unique needs. 

According to DHS Section 83.35, community-based residential facilities, assisted living facilities, and many memory care facilities must:

• Conduct a comprehensive assessment before admission.
• Develop a temporary service plan upon admission.
• Create a comprehensive individualized service plan (ISP) within 30 days. 
• Update the plan at least annually or whenever needs change.
• Involve the resident or their legal representative in creating and signing the plan. 

According to DHS Section 132.60, Wisconsin nursing homes are required to create and maintain a plan of care that:

• Is based on an individual assessment.
• Reflects any significant changes in the resident's condition.
• Guides daily care decisions for nursing and other staff. 

If a Wisconsin long-term care facility, like a nursing home or assisted living center fails to follow these laws, it is bad care and may amount to negligence under Wisconsin law. 

What Should an Individualized Care Plan Include?

A truly individualized care plan should serve as a living document that tells the story of who the resident is, what they need, and how to keep them safe. 

A strong care plan may address:

• Medical history and current diagnoses
• Medication schedule and administration needs 
• Dietary needs, food allergies, and swallowing precautions
• Skin integrity and pressure wound risk 
• Mobility limitations and fall prevention strategies
• Activities of daily living (transfer, bed mobility, etc.)
• Cognitive or mental health conditions, including behavior support needs 
• Pain management plans
• Preferred daily routines (sleep, meals, hygiene, social time)

These plans should be updated regularly and reflect the actual care being provided -- not just what is written down in a chart. 

What Can I Do to Advocate for Better Care?

If your loved one is in a Wisconsin nursing home or assisted living facility, you can play a critical role in ensuring their care is personalized and safe. Here are some tips on how to advocate for your loved one:

1. Ask for the care plan. Every resident is entitled to an individualized plan. Request a copy and review it. 
2. Participate in care planning meetings. Wisconsin law gives residents and their legal representatives the right to participate in developing and signing the plan. 
3. Monitor for changes. If your loved one's health or behavior changes, request that the care plan be updated. 
4. Document everything. If you notice signs of neglect or deviation from the plan of care, write it down and take photos if appropriate. 
5. Speak up. Address concerns with the facility immediately. If your concerns are ignored, escalate the issue. 
6. Consult a lawyer. If harm has already occurred or you suspect neglect, reach out to a firm experienced in long-term care cases. 

Holding Wisconsin Care Facilities Accountable

Individualized care is not just best practice -- it's a legal obligation. When Wisconsin nursing homes and assisted living facilities cut corners, it's the residents who suffer. 

At Lojewski Abuse & Injury Law, Wisconsin Nursing Home Lawyer Kristen Lojewski fights for accountability. Attorney Kristen Lojewski has helped families whose loved ones were injured or died because of care plans that did not reflect their actual needs. 

If you believe a Wisconsin facility failed to provide individualized care to your loved one, contact Lojewski Abuse & Injury Law today to Be Seen, Be Heard, Be Safe, and Be Championed. Attorney Kristen Lojewski is protecting Wisconsin's most vulnerable, one case at a time.