There are many reasons why elderly residents in facilities may suffer from nursing home abuse and neglect. In some cases, the worst forms of abuse and neglect can arise from facilities that seem to be clean, professional, and well run. Unfortunately, many of the elderly residents in these situations are often unable or, in some cases, unwilling to speak out against the abuse they endure. This is why it is vital for you to know the signs and how to detect nursing home abuse.
Red Flags to Look Out For
As many as 10% of elders have experienced abusive behavior while staying in a nursing home, and 15% of surveys failed to detect the harm many victims have been facing. This is why it is essential to keep an eye out for the red flags that could indicate your loved one may be experiencing abuse while staying at a nursing home. Below we have laid out a list of some of the more commonly known red flags for friends and family to keep an eye out for when visiting their loved ones. The more obvious physical signs of abuse on those who are staying in nursing homes are, but are not limited to the following:
- Infections
- Loss of hair
- Burns and abrasions
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Open wounds, bedsores, or cuts
- Hospitalization for the same or similar injuries
- Delayed medical care for an injury
- Unexplained and sudden change in weight
- Torn, stained, or bloody clothing or bedding
- Soiling, poor hygiene, the smell of urine or feces
Some of the less obvious signs of abuse victims may exhibit can be, but are not limited to:
- Physical or emotional withdrawal
- Listlessness or unresponsiveness
- The disappearance of personal items
- Infantile or other strange behaviors
- Sudden and unusual financial transactions
It is also important to note that red flags may also come in other forms, such as financial abuse or odd behavior from the staff. These actions may appear more evident when you arrive at a facility to visit a resident during regular visiting hours, and the staff of the home refuses or delays your access. If the staff members refuse to leave the room to give you and the resident privacy, it could indicate they are hiding something.
Reach Out to an Attorney for Help
When you notice the signs of abuse, it can mean the difference between life or death when we stand up for those in our lives who may not be able to defend themselves in a time of crisis. If you suspect or know of someone in a nursing home who has been a victim of abuse, our law firm is here to help you. For more than 30 years, our team of expert attorneys has been helping victims of nursing home abuse fight to get the justice they deserve. To learn more about how Morgan & Morgan can help your case, please fill out our free, no-obligation case evaluation form today, and a staff member will be in touch.