Nursing Home Abuse: Spot the Signs before It Progresses

As our population ages, more and more people are finding themselves in need of nursing home care. While the vast majority of nursing homes are safe and provide quality care, some still abuse and mistreat their residents.

Elder abuse is a serious problem, and those considering nursing home care need to be aware of the potential risks. Many signs may indicate abuse, including bruises or other injuries, sudden changes in behavior, and withdrawal from social activities.

Taking action is important if you suspect a loved one is being abused in a nursing home. You can report your concerns to the facility’s administrator or your local long-term care ombudsman. You can also contact your state’s adult protective services agency or the police.

Taking action to stop elder abuse is vital to protecting the health and well-being of our aging population. In today’s article, let’s take a look at some of the top signs that there is elder abuse going on at a nursing home. 

Here’s what you need to know:

It is estimated that as many as 5 million elders are abused yearly in the United States. Nursing home abuse is, unfortunately, all too common. It can lead to physical and emotional harm and, in some cases, death. It’s essential to be aware of them to protect your loved ones.

Some common signs of nursing home abuse include:

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or welts.
• Sudden changes in behavior, such as increased anxiety or aggression.
• Poor hygiene, such as dirty clothes or bedding.
• Weight loss or sudden weight gain.
• Unexplained changes in mood or demeanor.

At the first sign, it’s important to take action. You should first talk to the staff at the nursing home to see if they are aware of the situation and if they are taking steps to address it. If you are unsatisfied with their response, you can contact your local long-term care ombudsman or the police.

A nursing home is common, but it is highly preventable. By being aware of the signs and taking action if you suspect abuse, you can help protect your loved ones from harm.

What to Do When You Notice Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

If you notice signs of nursing home abuse, taking action is essential. Nursing home abuse can have a devastating impact on the victim, both physically and emotionally.

There are a few things you can do if you suspect nursing home abuse:

1. Talk to the victim. If the victim can communicate, try to talk to them about what is happening. It’s important to get their side of the story.

2. Talk to other residents. Other residents may have witnessed the abuse or may be experiencing it themselves. Talking to them can give you a better idea of what is happening and who is responsible.

3. Talk to staff members. Staff members may have information about the abuse or may be able to help you stop it.

4. Contact the authorities. Contact the police or your local Adult Protective Services office if you suspect abuse. They will be able to investigate the situation and take appropriate action.

5. Get help. If you or someone you know is being abused, some organizations can help. The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides 24/7 support for victims of domestic violence.

The Bottom Line

There are many signs of nursing home abuse, but some are more common than others. If you suspect your loved one is being abused in a nursing home, it is important to speak up. You may be able to help prevent further abuse from happening and get your loved ones the help they need.

If you are looking for the top personal injury law firm in Phoenix, you’re in the right place. Melanie Bossie, Mary Ellen Reilly, and Donna Oh founded Bossie, Reilly & Oh to continue their mission to hold nursing homes, hospitals, group homes, and assisted living facilities accountable for the abuse and neglect of elders and vulnerable adults. 

Our firm has litigated hundreds of elder abuse and neglect cases and recovered many six- and seven-figure settlements and verdicts for our clients. We firmly believe that the elderly and most vulnerable in our community deserve a voice, and we take pride in advocating for them. Contact us today to learn more and get started!