(Newswire.net — January 14, 2021) —
Nursing home abuse is more common than you think. In fact, around forty-four percent of nursing home residents report having experienced some form of abuse in America.
If your loved ones are currently living in a nursing home, it is important that you recognize and address the warning signs of at the earliest opportunity.
This guide outlines the various types of nursing home abuse and their corresponding signs that could indicate your loved ones are being abused.
Let’s get straight to it.
1. Physical Abuse
Physical abuse includes actions that cause intentional harm to seniors or the elderly under the care of the nursing home. Some signs of physical abuse could include:
- Unexplained bruising
- Scratches or cuts
- The sudden appearance of bald patches or missing hair
- Unusual blue or black marks on the body
- Tears in clothing
If you notice any of these signs, do make sure to begin a conversation with your loved ones. Remember to be gentle, and communicate empathically. Recognize that this may be an uncomfortable subject for them and let them talk at their own pace.
2. Financial Abuse
Seniors may be limited in their ability to use their financial resources, however, these resources are still in fact theirs. Unfortunately, an opportunistic caregiver might see this as an opportunity to take advantage of a senior who has financial resources but lacks the ability to access them.
Some signs to watch out for include:
- Sudden, unexplained bank withdrawals
- Suspicious looking signatures on cheques or other bank documents
- Changes in spending habits
- Unpaid bills
This is especially common with individuals who are living with dementia or Alzheimer’s who may not be aware of their interactions and surroundings.
3. Neglect in the Nursing Home
The consequence of neglect is deprivation. If a nursing home fails to serve its bare minimum function of providing physical, medical, or any other kind of care that they are expected to, it is considered neglect, and a type of nursing home abuse.
If your loved ones seem to appear particularly untidy, unkempt, ill or do not seem to be getting adequate care, it might be time to consider taking legal action. Hire a good team of nursing home neglect lawyers to represent your case and give your loved ones the justice and compensation they deserve.
Don’t Ignore These Types of Nursing Home Abuse
If you spot any of the abovementioned signs for these various types of nursing home abuse, it is important to seek help immediately. Talk to your loved ones, pursue legal action against the nursing home in question, and get the help you need.
Nursing home abuse can take an immense toll on seniors and their mental and physical health, so the sooner you address your suspicions, the better.
Did you find this article informative? Do share it with your friends and family on social media, and help spread awareness about nursing home abuse today!