Understanding the Types of Nursing Home Abuse

 Posted on September 29, 2023 in Personal Injury

When it comes to ensuring the safety and well-being of our elderly loved ones, many families often choose to entrust their care to nursing homes. These facilities are designed to provide around-the-clock care and support for those requiring assistance with daily activities due to age-related conditions or disabilities. However, while many nursing homes offer exceptional care, some residents experience abuse and neglect, which can have devastating physical, emotional, and psychological consequences.

Nursing home abuse can take various forms, each posing a significant threat to the residents' health and dignity. Families must be aware of these different types of abuse to protect their loved ones and take legal action when necessary. If you suspect your loved one is being abused or neglected, immediately contact an Illinois nursing home abuse attorney.

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse is perhaps the most visible form of mistreatment in nursing homes. It involves intentionally inflicting physical harm or injury upon a resident by a staff member, caregiver, or another resident. Common signs of physical abuse include unexplained bruises, cuts, fractures, or restraint marks. Victims of physical abuse may also display fear or anxiety around specific staff members, have sudden behavioral changes, or avoid discussing how they were injured.

Emotional or Psychological Abuse

Emotional or psychological abuse is less visible but equally damaging. It involves actions that harm a resident's emotional well-being, such as verbal threats, intimidation, humiliation, or isolation. Staff members who psychologically abuse residents may use demeaning language, belittle them, or manipulate them emotionally. Signs of emotional abuse can include depression, withdrawal, agitation, or a sudden decline in cognitive function.

Neglect

Neglect occurs when nursing home staff fail to meet a resident's basic needs, including food, water, medication, hygiene, and safety. Neglected residents may suffer from malnutrition, dehydration, untreated medical conditions, pressure ulcers (bedsores), or accidents due to inadequate supervision. Signs of neglect often manifest as unexplained weight loss, poor personal hygiene, untreated health issues, or an unkempt living environment.

Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse in nursing homes is a profoundly distressing and underreported issue. It involves any non-consensual sexual activity with a resident, whether a staff member, another resident, or an outsider perpetrates it. Signs of sexual abuse can include:

• Unexplained sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

• Bruising in genital areas

• Torn clothing

• Fear of specific individuals

• Withdrawal from social activities

Victims of sexual abuse may be too ashamed or afraid to report the abuse, making it crucial for family members to remain vigilant.

Contact a Kane County Personal Injury Lawyer for Help

Because of the high number of nursing home abuse incidents, families must take swift action to protect their loved ones. Legal action may be necessary to hold the responsible parties accountable and seek justice for the victims. An experienced Aurora, IL nursing home abuse attorney can provide guidance and support in pursuing legal action against the nursing home and its staff members involved in the abuse. Call Kinnally Flaherty Krentz Loran Hodge & Masur P.C. at 630-907-0909 to schedule a free and confidential consultation.