When you can no longer take care of your loved one as they require 24-hour assistance, you may consider moving them into an assisted living facility. Many people decide to move their loved ones into nursing homes as these facilities provide long-term care for elderly people. Understandably, this is a difficult decision as you are entrusting certain parties to properly care for your loved one. Unfortunately, in some cases, nursing homes fail to meet the needs of their residents. Nursing home abuse and neglect are alarmingly common. In the unfortunate event that your loved one has been injured as a result of nursing home negligence, it is in your immediate interest to retain the legal services of a trusted New York City Nursing Home Negligence Attorney who can help you understand your legal options. Keep reading to learn some of the most common signs of nursing home abuse.
What are some examples of nursing home abuse?
If your loved one lives in a nursing home, it is imperative to know the most common signs of abuse and neglect to ensure they are not being mistreated. Unfortunately, it is common for abuse and neglect to go unnoticed as elderly people experience physical and mental limitations. These limitations diminish an individual’s ability to stand up for themselves or tell their family that they are being abused.
Elderly people can be abused both physically and verbally. Physical abuse is usually easier to notice. The staff will not mistreat the resident in front of their loved ones, so verbal and emotional abuse is more likely to go unnoticed. The following are common signs of physical and verbal abuse:
- Bruising, cuts, scars, and welts
- Unexplained injuries (broken bones, sprains, fractures, dislocations)
- Signs of restraint
- Rapid weight loss (malnutrition) or weight gain
- Dehydration
- Infections (pressure ulcers-bed sores)
- Unsanitary conditions
- Refusal to let loved ones be alone with the resident
- Failing to take medications properly
- Caregiver belittling or threatening behavior
Caregivers can also be emotionally abusive toward residents. Typically, you can tell when an elderly person is being emotionally abused if they have suddenly become non-communicative or withdrawn. Additionally, you can tell if they seem agitated or seem to isolate themselves from others. They may have a sudden behavior change. If they have reacted negatively to you wanting to touch them, it could point to abuse. Ultimately, several signs are indicative of nursing home abuse. It is critical to understand common signs to ensure your loved one is not being abused or neglected.
If your loved one has moved into an assisted living facility, it is imperative to ensure they are receiving the proper care. If you suspect your loved one has been injured due to any type of abuse or negligence, contact one of our seasoned team members. Our firm is committed to helping our clients protect their loved ones and hold negligent parties accountable.
