Common Types of Nursing Home Abuse?
Putting a loved one in a nursing home can be a heart-wrenching and challenging decision for any family. When it comes time to make such a decision, the one thing you hope for the most is that your family member or loved one will be cared for in a loving, compassionate and responsible manner, just as they would be at home. We discuss how to recognize nursing home abuse and what you can do.
Unfortunately, this is not always the case. If you suspect someone you know is not being cared for the way they should be while living at a nursing home, there are steps you can take to rectify the situation. First, you must understand what some of the common types of nursing home abuse are:
Physical, Psychological, and Sexual Abuse
One of the most apparent and well-known types of abuse is physical abuse. Although it sounds unthinkable, this type of abuse can occur in a nursing home or residential care facility for the elderly. Physical abuse is any form of force used against someone that, in turn, causes pain, injury, and in the worst cases, death. This type of abuse may be evidenced by bruises, wounds, or any other unexplained injuries.
Though not as widely discussed as physical abuse, psychological abuse can be just as destructive and harmful. Psychological and emotional abuse may go hand-in-hand. This type of maltreatment is characterized by harassment, bullying, isolating an individual, not allowing them access to certain things or places they should be allowed access to, and calling people derogatory names. Physical and emotional abuse can be almost anything that leads to detrimental outcomes for individuals and their physical, mental, and emotional health.
Sexual abuse is another challenging category to discuss when it comes to nursing homes and similar facilities. The reality is that it can occur. Sexual abuse can be perpetrated by staff members, other residents, or even outside visitors. Some tell-tale signs that this kind of abuse occurs are changes in mental state, notable differences in eating or sleeping habits, and physical signs of unwanted contact.
Neglect and Abandonment
Neglect and abandonment of our loved ones and elders can still happen even if they are in a nursing facility. In fact, this type of abuse is more prevalent than you might imagine. Neglect is when an elder is not given proper care and attention by those who are responsible for doing so, such as nurses and other staff members.
Neglect can occur and may be a civil or criminal offense, even if it is not done intentionally. Abandonment is fairly clear. This is when a facility completely fails to render any sort of care and leaves an individual to their own devices. Our elderly deserve to live their golden years in peace and well cared for. An LA lawyer for elderly people says that if you suspect foul play, contact your local law enforcement right away.
Financial Abuse
Financial abuse is often thought of to be perpetrated by a family member of an elder individual; however, it can also happen in a nursing home setting. Financial abuse happens when anyone in a position of trust knowingly mishandles, takes, or unlawfully uses an elder’s money or possessions.
This sadly occurs quite often, and it can happen while in a nursing home. Family members, friends, and even nursing home staff are capable of committing this type of abuse. If you have a loved one in a similar situation, keeping a close eye on their finances for discrepancies is important.
There is no doubt that all forms of abuse found in nursing homes are incredibly devastating, sad, and absolutely inexcusable. If you believe your loved one is a victim of abuse in a nursing home, it is important to contact a nursing home abuse lawyer to discuss your options. We must be advocates for those who would not otherwise have a voice.
