Kinds of Neglect in Nursing Homes
Whether in assisted living or a nursing home, elderly people that live there still have rights. Unfortunately, the people who work for these institutions take advantage of their vulnerable residents and take away their rights and endanger their lives. Nursing homes are supposed to be safe places with specialized care for the elderly, but the World Health Organization reports that 2 out of 3 staff members admit to having committed an act of abuse. Refusing to take care of a patient, or taking advantage of them for personal gain, is negligence.
The Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987 was created to give a standard of care for nursing homes. Residents of nursing homes have the right to a safe environment free of abuse or fear. They also have the rights to:
- Privacy
- Accommodations for medical and social needs
- Be treated with dignity
- Be fully informed about treatment or changes in care
- Communicate without repercussions
Nursing homes are a great alternative for families with elder members that need care. They are a place for people to live the rest of their lives comfortably, so nursing home abuse is a serious offense. These signs and kinds of abuse in elderly patients in nursing homes may be caused to seek legal advice.
Physical Abuse: For an elderly patient in a nursing home, physical abuse can be easily observed. If a patient is wheelchair-bound and has an unexplained broken leg, it may be a sign of physical abuse. Physical abuse also spans wider than violence. Physically restraining a patient can be considered physical abuse. Patients may have symmetrical bruising on their arms or legs from ropes. A patient not getting enough medication or overdosing is also physical abuse. If a nursing home staff refuses to let you be alone with a loved one, they may be trying to hide physical signs of abuse.
Financial Abuse: A person in a nursing home may not be aware of everything going on due to illness, or maybe too trusting with staff. Elders have the right to manage their finances, but if sudden changes to accounts or will happen, then it may be a reason for suspicion. If an elderly person is bedridden, and ATM withdrawals are made without their knowledge or permission by a staff member, then it is theft. Theft of physical objects or cash from an elder in a nursing home is also financial abuse.
Contact a Kane County Nursing Home Negligence Attorney
Family members deserve the best possible care, but when nursing homes jeopardize their wellbeing with abuse, they deserve to be held accountable. If you notice unexplained injuries or financial choices concerning an elderly person under care, contact an experienced Aurora nursing home negligence attorney today. Call our office at 630-907-0909 to schedule a free consultation.
Sources:
https://theconsumervoice.org/uploads/files/long-term-care-recipient/THEFT-AND-LOSS-FACT-SHEET.pdf
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/abuse/elder-abuse-and-neglect.htm
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/elder-abuse
