Nursing Home Abuse: What to Do When You Suspect Abuse or Neglect and How to Spot it

There often comes a difficult time for many of us when we must face the reality that our loved ones, who are advanced in years, require more care than we can provide. When we place our elderly loved ones in a nursing home or assisted living center, our hope is that the skilled care they receive will provide them a better quality of life than if they were living on their own or with other family members. Sometimes they receive wonderful care at the hands of skilled and caring professionals. But, sometimes they do not.

It is important to note that abuse takes many forms. There have been thousands of documented cases in the US of actual physical and sexual abuse at the hands of nursing homes and their employees. Of course, these are the most egregious and must be dealt with swiftly and harshly. If you think your loved one has been or is being physically or sexually abused, do not wait to call for help. At Arguello Law Firm, we take pride in protecting those who, after many years of caring for us, are no longer to able to defend themselves.

What Are Some Examples of Abuse?

Actual physical and sexual abuse is often easy to spot; but, abuse is not always so conspicuous. Abuse can be denying loved ones access to relatives or visitors or denying access to medical treatment. Sometimes, it can be in the form of complete negligence. More often than not, abuse takes the form of simple neglect, but is every bit as cruel. Some common examples of neglect are:

• Not bathing our loved ones properly,
• Ignoring cries or alarm bells asking for help,
• Not providing proper assistance while walking, or not allowing our loved ones to walk at all and leaving them in their rooms or in a chair for too long,
• Failing to properly administer medication, and
• Refusing to help our loved ones with their meals.

The problem with each of the above examples of abuse (and, of course, there are many more examples) is that, in addition to the cruel treatment and emotional trauma it inflicts on our loved ones, it can also lead to very serious physically debilitating injuries or even death. Some of the most common examples are malnutrition or severe weight loss, dehydration, severe bruising, broken bones, and bed sores. If you notice any of these symptoms get help right away. Any of these injuries can be life threatening, especially to the elderly.

How to Spot Abuse or Neglect:

First and foremost, vigilance is key. Visit as often as you can and, when you do visit, take note of your surroundings. What does the room smell like, look like—is it clean? When you arrived where was your loved one? Was he or she sitting in a chair? Are they always sitting in the same chair when you arrive? Do they look well fed and bathed? Look for bruises. Talk to them and ask them about their care. Often times, it may help to take them somewhere with more privacy. Keep in mind that abuse to the elderly is no different than that of a battered spouse or child. They may be too fearful or ashamed to say anything. Finally, look at the other residents. Do they appear to be happy and well cared for? Are there social activities to provide the healthy interaction that we all need?

Nursing home abuse is easily preventable but, when gone unchecked, all too often leads to severe medical consequences. If you suspect your loved one is being abused or neglected, do not wait! Call us today. We have a team of experienced attorneys who understand the intricacies of suits against nursing homes, assisted living centers, hospitals, and other similar providers. We are here to protect your loved ones and fight for them.