What Are the Leading Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?

There is a clear set of guidelines and regulations set in place to protect nursing home residents from mishandling. Unfortunately, many residents still suffer from mistreatment at the hands of those they rely on for care. Abuse and neglect can extend beyond physical harm, and can include emotional abuse and financial exploitation, among other forms of mistreatment. Some of the leading signs that depict possible abuse in a nursing home include:

Physical Injuries

If you notice any unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or broken bones on someone who should otherwise be receiving proper care, it could be a sign of physical abuse. Typically, nursing home areas are supposed to be monitored and should be kept clean and free of harm. Therefore, any resulting physical injuries could also be an indication of negligence. This type of abuse needs to be reported immediately. This type of treatment is not normal and needs to be spoken against.

Unexplained Weight Loss

If a nursing home resident is not being cared for properly, it could result in drastic and unexpected weight reduction. While this could be caused by stress and depression resulting from emotional or physical abuse, it can also point to inadequate nutrition and an underlying medical condition. Check to see if their meals are sufficient and that they are taking their medications correctly. A nursing home is required to be equipped with professional staff. If the staff is not taking care of the residents with the care that they are supposed to, you need to report that.

Unsanitary Living Conditions

The whole purpose of being under care in a nursing home is to make sure that the living environment is safe and sanitary. If there are signs of clutter, infestations, or filth, this could be a sign of possible neglect. Additionally, track the frequency of their bed changes, bathroom cleanliness, and if they are attending to their hygiene. Good hygiene is important to living a healthy life. If the conditions are not healthy or sanitary, there cannot be a good quality of life in the facilities.

Sudden Changes in Behavior

Where mental or sexual abuse is concerned, it may not always be apparent from the outside. It is important to take note of any sudden or drastic changes in behavior. These changes in behavior can include confusion, fear, or aggression. Similarly, if the resident appears withdrawn and unresponsive to activities they usually enjoy, they may be trying to cope with a traumatic experience. It’s best to keep track of these changes so you can build up a strong claim.

Financial exploitation

If the nursing home resident is unable to manage their finances, you must check to ensure they are not being taken advantage of. If you notice significant changes in their financial situation and bank account activities, this could be a sign of exploitation. Also, make sure to watch out for any unusual spending or suspicious signatures on documents. These changes can be subtle so keeping track of where their money is going is suggested.

How to Handle Neglect & Abuse

Depending on your relationship with the individual, you may have more insight into the situation than most. If you suspect any of these warning signs present in a nursing home, it is important to contact a professional as soon as possible. Start with reaching out to the local authorities, such as the police or adult protective services, to report the incident. Where the victim is a loved one, taking an extra step and seeking legal help is usually recommended for the best outcome. A knowledgeable attorney from Crowe Arnold & Majors, LLP can guide you through the legal process of seeking justice and compensation for any inflicted damages. 

Conclusion

Although they’re meant to be safe havens, nursing homes are not always what they appear to be and can be a hotbed for abuse and neglect. Knowing the leading signs in this setting can help you avoid a potential tragedy and help keep vulnerable residents safe and secure. If you suspect possible mistreatment, don’t hesitate to speak out and seek the help of a qualified legal professional. They will be able to review your claim and see if there is a valid case or not. A trusted legal team will do everything in its power to make sure the nursing home resident gets the justice they deserve.