Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

December 31, 2010

When we place our loved ones in the care of nursing homes and assisted living care facilities, we trust that these facilities will provide vulnerable adults with the care and support they need. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. At times those who are unable to care for themselves enter nursing homes only to face abuse or neglect.

Equally troublesome, the victims of nursing home abuse and neglect may be unable or unwilling to reveal mistreatment. Some nursing home residents face physical or mental impediments, leaving them unable to communicate regarding neglect. Others may be able to share, but may not want to burden loved ones or may fear retribution from the nursing home staff for reporting.

Accordingly, it is important for those with loved ones in nursing homes pay careful attention for signs of abuse or neglect. What sorts of things warrant further investigation?
- Unexplained Bruises or Cuts: Those who are in nursing homes may be more prone to injuries than others, but these injuries should always come with explanations.
- Bedsores: When someone who is unable to leave his or her bed remains in the same position for too long, he or she may develop bedsores. Nursing home caregivers should be rotating immobile residents routinely enough to prevent bedsores.
- Sudden Change in Mood or Demeanor: When an elderly person's mood or behaviors shift rapidly, it may indicate an underlying issue with the nursing home care.
- Dehydration or Malnutrition: When residents must rely on caregivers for proper nourishment, those caregivers should be carefully monitoring eating and drinking habits.

These situations do not necessarily demonstrate that the nursing home is neglecting its patients, but rather that the situation should be examined more closely.

Nursing home neglect or abuse may arise out of a variety of situations. A nursing home may be understaffed, thereby preventing each resident from receiving adequate attention. Staff members may lack proper training to provide adequate care. The nursing home may fail to investigate the people it seeks to employ, and may negligently employ people who are not prepared for this significant responsibility.

Regardless of the particular circumstances, though, it is essential to protect the victims of nursing home abuse and neglect. If you suspect problems with a loved one's nursing home, speak with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney to discuss your potential legal remedies.

Article provided by Dansky - Katz - Ringold - York
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