Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

If your elderly loved one is in the nursing home system, being aware of the level of care they are receiving is important to their wellbeing. It is an unfortunate truth that not all nursing homes provide the adequate and loving care that the elderly deserve.

Nursing home regulation are supposed to protect against both abuse and neglect, but they are not always effective if the caretakers do not have the best interest of the patient in mind. Keep in mind that abuse may not just be physical, but could be mental, sexual, or verbal abuse as well.

If you have reason to believe that your loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse, below are some of the warning signs you can look for:

1. Unexplainable injuries to the body – such as wounds, cuts, bruises or welts in various stages of healing
2. Poor personal hygiene – if a person is neglected, their personal hygiene will likely suffer
3. Unusual emotional upset or agitation – this could be a sign of any type of abuse or neglect.
4. Unanswered questions – if you cannot get a straight answer regarding your loved one’s care, it is likely a sign that here is something to hide.
5. Rapid weight loss or weight gain – signs of malnutrition or dehydration.
6. Reluctance to speak in staff members’ presence – could be a result of fear or intimidation.
7. Unexplained or unexpected death of the resident – very serious matter that should be given the attention of all involved.
8. Unsanitary and unclean conditions – nursing homes are required to provide sanitary and safe living conditions to their residents.
9. Unusual or sudden changes in behavior – this is a red flag that may be initially hurtful, but should be given full attention.
10. Desire to be isolated from others – wanting to retreat and not be around the ones they love.

Take Your Loved One’s Condition Seriously

The patient of an abusive situation will likely be hesitant to open up about the situation at their place of living. Ultimately, if you feel like something is awry, follow your instincts and work with ourMontgomery County personal injury attorneys to investigate the situation. Contact us today to discuss your case and determine what type of legal action should be taken.