The nursing home is a facility where elderly people, who can’t take care of themselves, live. These elderly people may have health problems that require constant care and supervision. The nursing home staff provides this care and supervision 24 hours a day. Nursing home staff members are responsible for the overall care of elderly patients in this setting. They should work collaboratively with other members of the nursing home team to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
Unfortunately, nursing home abuse is a serious problem that many people face every day. Many residents are abused by the very people who are supposed to be taking care of them. This abuse can take many different forms, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and financial abuse. If you or a loved one has been the victim of this abuse, it is important to report it to the authorities and find the best nursing home abuse attorney in your area. The sooner you report the abuse, the sooner you can get the help you need. For now, let’s learn more about nursing home abuse and how to recognize the signs.
Physical Injuries
Physical abuse is one of the most serious and easily recognizable forms of abuse and can involve slapping, hitting, kicking, pinching, or even throwing objects at the resident. Physical abuse can cause serious physical injuries, including cuts, bruises, and even broken bones. In some cases, the injuries may be so severe that they require hospitalization.
Behavioral Changes
One sign of nursing home abuse changes in behavior. If your loved one suddenly becomes withdrawn, depressed, or agitated, it could be a sign that they are being abused. If they suddenly have new bruises or cuts, this could also be a sign of abuse.
Financial Changes
While any type of abuse is unacceptable, financial abuse may be one of the most insidious forms since it can often go undetected for a long time. One of the main ways that this abuse manifests itself is in the form of financial changes. This can include changes in the victim’s banking habits or changes in the victim’s will or estate plan. It can also include instances where the victim’s money or possessions are taken without their consent.
There are a few key things to look out for if you think that your loved one may be a victim of financial abuse. One of the most obvious signs is if the victim’s bank account has been emptied or if large sums of money have gone missing. Other signs include if the victim has suddenly become withdrawn or isolated, or if they are no longer able to take care of their own finances.
Poor Nutrition and Hygiene
It is not uncommon for seniors to experience malnutrition or poor care as a sign of nursing home abuse. Unfortunately, many nursing home residents are not given the proper nutrition they need to thrive. In some cases, residents are not given enough to eat at all, while in other cases, residents are given too much unhealthy food.
Poor hygiene can be another sign of nursing home abuse. In some cases, residents are not given a chance to bathe or groom themselves. This can lead to poor hygiene, which can be embarrassing and uncomfortable for the resident. In other cases, residents may be given too much soap or shampoo, which can cause skin irritation or other problems.
Overall, nursing home abuse is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences for victims. It is important to be aware of the signs of abuse and to take action if you suspect that someone you love is being mistreated.
