Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect: Things To Watch Out For And What To Do

When we were growing up, we were taken care of by our elders, and these may be our parents, aunts, uncles, grandparents or simply someone who loved us enough to care for us and be our guardian. Now that they are becoming elderly, the time has arrived where it is our turn to take care of them. In as much as we want to, sometimes it is simply not an option especially if they require additional care that cannot be given to our homes. Contrary to what some people think, it is not because we do not love them enough but rather that we love them enough to have the best care possible. This may require paying others to give them the best care possible and this means putting them in a nursing home. Fortunately, most nursing homes are perceived to be favorable since our elderly loved ones can interact with other people close to their own age while minimizing loneliness. Another benefit is that they have better care facilities, which is not available in our homes.

Unfortunately, not all are favorable when choosing a nursing home since not everyone working within a nursing home has a sunny and cheerful disposition. This means that the occurrence of harm to our loved ones is still a potential issue. This is because no matter how stringent the screening process is there will still be people who will prey upon or take advantage of the vulnerable such as the elderly. It is not something we want to think about but it is best to be vigilant and keep a watchful eye especially with regards to issues of abuse or neglect.

Types and Signs of Abuse and Neglect 

Physical abuse or physical assault includes but is not limited to punching, kicking, slapping, pinching, spanking, shaking, pushing and withholding food. This can be seen through the following signs:

• Unexplained bruises
• Cuts and scratches
• Welts
• Dislocated joints
• Broken Bones
• Sprains
• Burns
• Unexplained Weight Loss
• Infections
• Malnutrition

Emotional abuse is usually in the form of verbal abuse or assault

• Change in disposition, behavior or mood
• Refusal to talk when staff is around
• Feeling agitated when staff is around
• Emotionally withdrawn
• Withdrawal from activities
• Loss of appetite
• Fear of staff or caretaker
• Getting distant
• Isolation

Sexual Abuse

• Trauma around the genital area (swelling, cuts and bruising)
• Unexplained sexually transmitted diseases

Financial Exploitation

• Change in financial situation like inability to pay bills
• Excessive spending and gifts
• Unexplained purchases and transaction
• Giving away financial control

Healthcare Fraud

• Unnecessary or excessive medical testing and diagnostic testings
• Billing for services and medications not taken
• Inability to explain tests and conditions

Neglect 

• Lack of hygiene
• Rapid weight loss or weight gain
• Lack of food
• Soiled bed and clothes
• Bed sores or ulcers
• Poorly maintained or unsanitary living conditions
• Inadequate basic necessities
• Heavily medicated or sedated
• Frequently ill
• Prolonged illness
• Injuries caused by another resident
• Fractured hip
• Injuries requiring hospitalization
• Injuries requiring emergency treatment
• Instances of wandering alone

Aside from the signs mentioned about a good way to confirm abuse is to visit the home at different times of the day and be observant of what is going on. It is possible that sometimes the elderly may seem chaotic but it cannot be avoided and it is not always the norm. A potential way to determine abuse is by talking to the staff, which will reveal their general disposition and their feelings about their jobs.

If your loved one is able to talk then it is best to talk with them when others are not present. If something is happening it is possible that they may not want to talk because they were threatened and it may take some coaxing before they talk.

If you have any doubts and suspect that your loved one may be abused or neglected, it is best to err on the side of caution and contact 911 if needed or report it to law enforcement officers. You may also report to Adult Protection Services or you may also contact a lawyer for more information on the best course of action for your loved one.