How to Identify Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
It’s horrible to think that people could abuse the elderly, but, unfortunately, nursing home abuse does happen. Elder abuse and neglect can happen to any older person, but it’s particularly common for those in nursing homes. The best way to save your loved one from suffering abuse and neglect is to keep an eye out for the signs.
Don’t ignore your gut, and stay alert for any indication that a vulnerable adult isn’t being properly cared for. Your loved one looks to you for protection while he or she is in the care of a nursing home or other care facility, so pay attention. These signs can be spotted, and you may be able to prevent or put a stop to your loved one’s abuse.
What Is Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect?
Nursing home abuse is any abuse against elderly individuals while they’re in the care of a nursing home. A staff member could be the perpetrator, or it could be a fellow nursing home resident. Neglect is one of the major types of nursing home abuse.
Some other types of nursing home abuse are as follows:
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Psychological abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Financial abuse
Signs That Could Indicate Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect
If you believe that an elderly adult is being mistreated, the best way to be sure is to be proactive in your identification of abuse. Ask questions, be alert, and pay attention to your loved one’s behavior. And if something is telling you that things aren’t right, you’re probably correct.
Physical Signs of Abuse
If your loved one is being abused in a nursing home, there are physical signs to look out for: bruises, especially on the wrists; bruises in the shape of fingerprints; broken bones, especially if it happens repeatedly; torn clothing; recoiling from touch; and unexplained weight loss.
Behavioral Signs of Abuse
If you believe your loved one is suffering abuse, these are some of the behavioral signs that may be indicators: withdrawal, depression, anxiety, mood changes, personality changes, and fearful behavior.
Signs of Neglect or Malnourishment
Some indicators that an elder is being neglected or malnourished are as follows: extreme, sudden, or unexplained weight loss; dirty clothing and general hygiene issues; and bedsores, repeated illnesses, and other health issues that may indicate the elder is not receiving proper medical care.
These are only some of the signs. Abuse can manifest in different ways in different people. Some may show fewer signs of abuse than others, but that doesn’t mean things are normal. If you believe your loved one has been abused, remove the vulnerable adult from the harmful environment and contact an attorney.
Meet with an NYC Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
If it’s too late to prevent your loved one’s abuse, there is still a way you can help. You can fight for justice and compensation on his or her behalf. No one deserves to suffer abuse, especially when the victim isn’t in a position to fight back. You can file a nursing home abuse claim against the abusers or those who allowed this to happen.
Contact an attorney at Greenstein & Milbauer, LLP today. Your attorney will help you obtain compensation for your loved one’s abuse and suffering. Don’t let others suffer the same harm. Fight injustice by calling 1-800-VICTIM2 (842-8462) and scheduling a free consultation. You can also reach us through the online contact form below.