It’s not easy to think about the possibility of nursing home abuse, but it’s a reality that too many families face. The National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) estimates that 2 million elders are maltreated each year in the United States and that only 1 in 14 cases of elder abuse is ever reported. This means that millions of elders suffer in silence every year. If you have a loved one who is living in a nursing home, it’s important to contact an Albuquerque Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer.
Be aware of the signs of abuse and know what to do if you reckon something is wrong. In this blog post, we will discuss the signs of nursing home abuse and what you can do if you presume your loved one is being abused in the nursing home.
What is the most common type of elder abuse in nursing homes?
The most expected kind of elder abuse in nursing homes is neglect. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, Neglect is defined as “the failure by those responsible for the care of a vulnerable adult to provide the food, shelter, personal hygiene, medicine, or protection that he or she needs.”
Neglect Abuse:
If you have an elderly loved one in a nursing home, it is important to be aware of the signs of neglect so that you can take action if necessary. Some signs to look out for include:
- Unexplained weight loss: This can be a sign that the nursing home resident is not getting enough to eat.
- Bed sores: If a nursing home resident has bed sores, it is an indication that they are not being properly cared for and are not being moved frequently enough.
- Dirty clothing or unkempt appearance: This may be a sign that the nursing home staff is not providing adequate personal care to the residents.
- Dehydration: This can be caused by the nursing home staff not providing enough fluids to residents or by them not assisting residents with drinking enough fluids. Dehydration can lead to serious health problems, so it is important to take action if you see this sign.
Emotional Abuse:
Emotional abuse is another form of elder abuse that can occur in nursing homes. This type of abuse can be difficult to spot, as there may not be any physical signs. However, some signs to look out for include:
- Withdrawal from social activities or interaction with others
- Unusual behavior changes, such as agitation or aggression
- Appearing depressed or anxious
If you notice any of these signs in your elderly loved one, it is important to take action. Emotional abuse can be just as harmful as physical abuse, and your loved one deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.
If you suspect that someone you love is being abused in a nursing home, it is important to take action. You can report the abuse to the nursing home staff or contact your local adult protective services. Taking action can help protect your loved ones and ensure they receive the care and respect they deserve.
In the end
If you have an elderly loved one in a nursing home, it’s important to be vigilant for signs of abuse. Unfortunately, abuse is all too common in nursing homes, and it can be challenging to spot. Pay attention to your loved one’s physical and emotional state, and look for changes that may be indicative of abuse.
