If you have a loved one in a nursing home, you want them to be safe. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse can take many forms, and they’re not always obvious.
To protect your loved one, it’s critical to understand what forms elder abuse can take. Knowing more about what can happen is a good way to stay informed — and it can help you spot problems as soon as they occur:
Recognizing the signs of elder abuse
There are six main types of elder abuse:
- Physical abuse is any type of intentional bodily harm inflicted on an elder.
- Sexual abuse, which refers to forcible sexual contact on an elder against their will
- Emotional abuse consists of verbal or nonverbal behavior that causes psychological distress to an elder.
- Financial abuse is any type of financial exploitation of the elderly, including stealing money or property, coercing an elder to sign a financial document, or misusing an elder’s power of attorney.
- Neglect is failing to provide basic needs such as food, health services, help with daily activities, and socialization.
- Abandonment is a form of elder abuse that refers to the act of leaving an older adult alone without the means to care for themselves.
Nursing home abuse is a serious problem that can have devastating consequences for elderly residents. However, some signs may indicate abuse is taking place. These include:
- Sudden changes in mood or behavior
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Physical injuries
- Fearfulness around certain staff members.
You must be vigilant for signs of abuse or neglect if you have a loved one in a nursing home. If you suspect your elderly parent is being abused, don’t hesitate to contact the authorities and file a report. You may also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit on your parent’s behalf. Taking these steps can help ensure that your loved one is safe and protected from further harm.