Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

After a family makes the decision to place a loved one into a nursing home or assisted living facility, it is reasonable that they would expect for their loved one to be cared for and not injured as a result of abuse or neglect. Afterall, the decision isn’t often an easy one to make.

Unfortunately, all too often elderly people are the victims of physical, financial, psychological or sexual abuse while in the care of an assisted living or elder care facility. What makes them so susceptible?

• Poor hygiene, inconsistency with taking medication, and poor self-care are all often associated with aging
• Many of the physical symptoms can also be attributed to the aging process
• Elderly people are isolated from their families in between visits and so it is less likely that their abuser be caught or symptoms go unnoticed
• Elderly people who have dementia or Alzheimer’s are particularly at risk

If you are worried about your loved one or if you suspect that they are not being cared for in a way that is consistent with what a typical nursing home or assisted living community, you have every right to speak with the director of the establishment.

What Should You Look Out For?

Though none of the symptoms for elder abuse on their own are necessarily indicative of abuse it is important to note that, when seen in addition to other symptoms, it can indicate that neglect or abuse is occuring. Knowing what the symptoms of elder neglect are can help you become a better advocate for your family member or loved one.

Some common physical symptoms of elder neglect are…

• Environmental hazards from an unclean environment
• Malnutrition and dehydration
• Preventable injuries
• Bedsores or pressure ulcers
• Unexplained weight loss or gain
• Changes in personal hygiene

Mental symptoms include…

• Mood swings
• Withdrawn behavior
• Depression and anxiety
• Unusual changes in behavior
• Lack of friendly interaction (whether with family, staff or other residents)

Why Does Elder Neglect Happen?

Elder neglect may be an indicator that the entire facility is experiencing issues. In fact, some of the most common reasons for elder neglect have little to do with the staff member and more to do with the fact that the facility should never have hired them in the first place. Oftentimes over-occupation and understaffed facilities lead to stress and issues within teams, the staff may not be qualified, may not have gotten the correct background checks, and the facilities may not have adequate maintenance or even adequate staffing.

Are you worried that your loved one is being neglected or abused while at an elder care facility? Having a licensed, experienced Nursing Abuse Lawyer on your side could be a benefit to you and your family.