Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
When an elderly family member requires around-the-clock care, families may opt to put their loved ones in nursing homes so they can get the help that they need or might not get while living at home. Sadly, it has been estimated that anywhere from one to two million Americans over the age of 65 have been abused or mistreated by their caregivers. Elders are among the people who are least likely to report abuse, due to physical or mental limitations or fear of retaliation from their caregivers. Noticing signs of elder abuse or neglect can help save the life of your loved one.
Types of Nursing Home Abuse
There is more than one way an elderly person can be abused in a nursing home. People may think that physical abuse is the only form, but the elderly can and do suffer emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse can be the most obvious sign that your loved one is suffering harm at the hands of a caretaker or another resident of a nursing home. Signs of physical abuse can include:
- Unexplained broken bones, dislocations, or strains
- Bruising or scars on the body
- Signs of restraint, such as rope or strap burns
- Internal injuries
- Tooth or hair loss
Emotional Abuse
Though it is harder to detect, you may notice differences in your elderly loved one if they have suffered emotional abuse. Signs can include:
- Low self-esteem
- Depression
- Seeming disturbed or scared
- Mood swings
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse can accompany other forms of abuse, such as physical or emotional abuse. Signs of sexual abuse can include:
- Unexplained STDs or genital infections
- Stained, bloody, or torn underwear
- Vaginal or anal bleeding
- Bruising near the genitals
- Signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Social or emotional withdrawal
Financial Exploitation
Elderly individuals are also prone to financial exploitation by their caregivers. Signs of this type of abuse can include:
- Changes in the person’s financial situation
- Changes in power of attorney documents, life insurance policies, or wills
- Missing cash from the elderly person’s room
- Lack of proper care, even though they can afford it
Get Help From a Kane County Nursing Home Negligence Lawyer
When you put an elderly loved one in a nursing home, you are trusting their caregivers to give them the utmost care and respect. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. If you suspect that a person at your loved one’s nursing home is perpetrating abuse or neglect against them, you need to get help from a compassionate and successful Aurora nursing home abuse attorney. Contact Kinnally Flaherty Krentz Loran Hodge & Masur P.C. to discuss your case and your loved one’s rights. Call 630-907-0909 to schedule a free consultation.
Sources:
http://nursinghomeabusesupport.com/types-elder-abuse/
