Nursing home abuse is an issue that plagues millions of families and individuals alike each year around the world. While nursing home abuse may be apparent in some situations, it is important to note various signs that may signal abuse even when there are no other obvious indications. Knowing how to identify signs of abuse in a nursing home is imperative to ensure your loved one is being cared for properly at all times. 1. Physical Changes or Injuries Each time you visit a loved one in a nursing home, it is important to check for potential injuries, bruising, and other physical changes, especially if you suspect abuse. Your loved one may attempt to hide or cover any bruises and recent injuries if they are ashamed or frightened of consequences that may arise if they discuss the abuse out loud. 2. Social Withdrawal Take notice if your loved one remains withdrawn or quiet, even while family and friends are present to visit. Social withdrawal, increased anxiety, and deepened depression may all be signs that something is amiss in the nursing home in which they reside. Social withdrawal and isolation are both extremely common in senior citizens who are uncomfortable with expressing the need for help and assistance. 3. Drastic Mood Swings Drastic mood swings may arise in seniors who are living in nursing homes where they do not feel comfortable or safe. If you notice a drastic shift in your loved one’s mood from positive to overwhelmed, frantic, anxious, or nervous, it may be due to potential abuse. If your loved one appears scared, nervous, or experiences a shift in mood when a nurse or another staff member enters their room, it is important to monitor the situation at hand. Even if your loved one suffers from dementia or another cognitive disorder, it is still essential to monitor their behaviors, moods, and any changes you see each time you visit the nursing home in which they are receiving care. 4. Malnourishment Visible malnourishment is often a sure sign of some form of nursing home neglect or abuse. If your loved one is unable to eat, not being served enough food, or is simply being neglected, they may appear malnourished, sickly, or pale. If possible, ask your loved one about the food they eat each day, their routine, and their overall satisfaction with the environment they are living in. While your loved one may not be entirely honest with you if there is abuse present, there may be other indicators to take away from their disposition and attitude. 5. Poor Nursing Home Management If a nursing home appears to be poorly managed, there is likely an issue with hiring and handling staff. If staff members appear disoriented, frantic, and confused, management may be in need of repair. 6. High Staff Turnover Rate Poor nursing home management can lead to nursing home neglect and abuse along with a high turnover, especially as staff members become overwhelmed and overworked without proper leadership in place 7. Recent Resignation If there has been a recent resignation of a president or another top employee of a nursing home, this may be cause for concern. Resignations typically only occur when there is a scandal taking place between employees, business owners, staff, and in some cases, even patients. Always be sure to conduct a thorough investigation into any recent resignations your loved one’s nursing home has undergone to learn more about how the facility is managed and operated. If you believe your loved one is being abused in their nursing home, it may be time to seek the guidance of a nursing home abuse lawyer. A nursing home abuse lawyer can provide valuable insight into the next steps to take with your case to receive the justice you and your loved one deserve.
2021-08-22
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