When you trust a facility to care for your loved one, it’s difficult to think that the decision might not be in your loved one’s best interests. Many nursing homes offer a warm and supportive environment, but it’s important to be aware of the risk of nursing home abuse, red flags to watch out for, and what to do if you suspect an issue.
Types of Elder Abuse
The National Institute on Aging reports that hundreds of thousands of adults over the age of 60 are abused, neglected, or financially exploited each year. Elder abuse can take many forms, including:
Physical abuse: Causing bodily harm such as hitting, pushing, or slapping; restraining an older adult against their will.
Emotional/psychological abuse: Hurtful words, threatening, yelling, or repeatedly ignoring the older adult; keeping the person isolated from family and friends.
Neglect: Caregiver does not attempt to respond to the adult’s physical, emotional, or social needs. Withholding food, medicine, or health care access.
Financial abuse: An older adult’s money or belongings are stolen or misused. Forging checks, taking Social Security benefits, using credit cards without permission, and changing names on legal documents without permission are all examples of financial abuse.
Potential Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Elder abuse is a serious issue. Here are some potential signs of abuse, as outlined by the National Institute on Aging:
- Unexplained injuries
- Physical signs of restraint such as bruises, scars, or burns
- Depression or anxiety
- Behavioral changes
- Bedsores
- Unclean living conditions
- Changes in banking/spending patterns
Protecting Your Loved One
Stay informed regarding your loved one’s care to help protect them from nursing home abuse. Stay actively involved in their life, visiting and having conversations regularly. Pay attention to their day-to-day routine and take notice if there are any staff members they seem uncomfortable around.
Encourage physical and mental activities such as daily walks, chair yoga, puzzles, and hobbies. Staying active can help your loved one thrive and better care for themselves. Monitor their finances; if needed, remove their ability to share their financial details like credit card information.
Who is at Risk?
Elder abuse can happen to any older adult. Most victims are women, but men are also impacted. Those without family or friends nearby and individuals with disabilities, memory problems, or dementia can be more vulnerable to abuse. People who need help with activities of everyday life (bathing, dressing, taking medicine) are more likely to experience mistreatment, according to the National Institute on Aging.
If you are concerned about potential nursing home abuse, talk to your loved one to try to learn more about the situation. If the issue seems to be with one staff member, express your concerns to the nursing home administrator. If you suspect abuse, report it to an authority. There are agencies that can help, including Adult Protective Services and The National Center on Elder Abuse. Long-term care ombudsmen help resolve issues by advocating for the needs of individuals who reside in assisted living facilities, board and care homes, and nursing homes. You can also consult an experienced personal injury attorney for legal counsel.
As always, if you suspect urgent danger, call 911.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
