Know the Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
When a loved one needs specialized or round-the-clock care, it might be necessary for them to move into a nursing home or another type of long-term care facility. When you select the right facility, you expect that they will receive the care and treatment they need. Unfortunately, nursing home neglect is a growing problem in the United States, and some nursing home residents even experience physical, mental, or sexual abuse by staff members or other residents.
Experts underestimate that nursing home abuse is grossly underreported for several reasons. Victims may be threatened and too frightened to report anything, or they might have cognitive deficiencies, among other things. For this reason, family members should always be aware of the possible signs that abuse is occurring. Some signs include:
- Multiple injuries in various stages of healing without acceptable explanations from staff members
- Soiled, dirty, or blood-stained clothing or bedding
- Advanced bedsores without treatment
- Diagnosis of sexually-transmitted diseases
- Changes in behavior or personality
- Being withdrawn and not willing to speak to family members
- Acting afraid of certain staff members
- Staff members not allowing you to visit with your loved one alone
- Marks around wrists or ankles
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Depression, anxiety, or fearfulness
If you notice any of these signs or anything out of the ordinary, never be afraid to report it to the facility administrators. Also, always speak openly with your loved ones and ask them questions about their experience, encouraging them to be honest.
Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer in Boca Raton for Free Today
Nursing home residents who suffer unnecessary injuries have important legal rights. You should always discuss nursing home injuries with an experienced Boca Raton injury attorney who can stand up for your loved one’s rights. Do not hesitate to speak with Glotzer & Kobren about your concerns by calling 561.361.8677 or contacting us online for free.
