Signs Of Nursing Home Abuse And What To Do

Posted on: 22 April 2020

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Most people place their loved ones in nursing facilities that they can trust, that are clean and that are safe. Even the best of efforts to keep loved ones safe can fall short when the nursing home fails to protect a loved one from harm. This devastating situation must be identified and dealt with as soon as possible. The signs of abuse can often be subtle, so read below for what to watch for and how to seek financial compensation when the worst happens.

What to Know About Elderly Abuse

The elderly and disabled are protected by a slew of laws and regulations. Nursing homes must follow strict protocols when it comes to several different areas of harm. Those are physical, mental, sexual, and financial abuse. Any time an elderly person doesn't give permission or is unable to give permission for something, that may be considered abuse. Nursing homes and any involved employees can be liable for civil financial penalties along with criminal charges.

Signs to Watch For

  1. Lack of care when it comes to common basic needs may be present. That can include issues with feeding, clothing, and shelter. For example, missing meals or dirty clothing could be signs of a problem. Also, pay close attention to things like grooming and hygiene. Unwashed hair or body odors indicate a problem.
  2. Lack of medical care is another way nursing homes can fall short. Most elderly people are saddled with numerous medical conditions and some require constant medical monitoring. Your loved one should never have to suffer needlessly because the nursing home employees failed to care for a wound that becomes a life-threatening condition.
  3. Lack of proper feeding may result in a loved one who seems to be losing weight for no apparent reason. Keep up with your loved one's weight and be aware of unexplained weight loss. In some cases, loved ones can be weighed while on the hospital bed.
  4. Lack of general cleanliness can be a sign of a nursing home in trouble. Take a glance around both the common areas and your loved one's room. If the floor is dirty, the bathroom facilities are unclean, and your loved one's bedding is not changed often enough, you may be seeing an issue with management.
  5. A change in your loved one's mood is another red flag. Mental or sexual abuse can result in your loved one acting fearful, agitated, depressed, or anxious. Sexually transmitted diseases are likely a sign of sexual abuse.

Taking Legal Action

Report your concerns to both the facility and to the police. Contact your state's nursing home governing body and file a report with them. Finally, speak to a personal injury lawyer about your case as soon as possible. Nursing homes can be found financially responsible for the harm perpetrated on your loved one. Speak to a personal injury lawyer about your loved one at once.

Have more questions? Try visiting websites like Nelson Fromer & Crocco Law Offices to learn more.