The decision to send a loved one to a nursing home is usually not an easy choice, and it's often made under the hope that they will receive the care and attention that they need in a safe, comfortable space. Regrettably, nursing home neglect and abuse are something far too many families experience.
If you believe a loved one is being abused, it is essential to act fast when responding to incidents of potential abuse in order to protect their health. But when do you know to call a lawyer? There are a few red flags that could indicate your loved one is being neglected or abused while in the care of a nursing home. Here’s when to involve a lawyer in cases of nursing home neglect.
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Physical Abuse or Injury Signs
Unexplained physical injuries, such as bruises, cuts, burns, or fractures, are among the most clear-cut signs of nursing home abuse and/or neglect.
Older adults are at greater risk for falls and injuries, but repeated or unexplained indications of injury.
In addition to physical injuries, common symptoms of dehydration, such as dry mouth, confusion, dizziness, dark urine, fatigue, or sudden weight loss, can also signal neglect.
If you find your loved one has demonstrated physical signs of neglect, it is crucial for you to explore further and often speak with an attorney about what options you have in terms of holding the facility responsible.
Sudden Changes in Behaviour
If a close one who had never otherwise shown any signs of status change no longer displays previous inherent characteristics, there could be cause for alarm.
Emotional or physical abuse might cause sudden withdrawal, fear of certain staff members, anxiety, or depression.
If sleeping habits change, your loved one may withdraw from others or become agitated; these are other possible signs that your loved one is being mistreated.
Neglect Of Basic Needs
Nursing homes are required to provide their residents with necessities such as food, water, cleanliness, and access to medical treatment. If you see your loved one repeatedly hungry, thirsty, or dirty, this is a sign of neglect.
Also, if they are not given their required medications or medical care, or if their room is filthy and unclean, it may be a tell-tale sign that the facility fails to provide sufficient treatment.
Families may want to be particularly vigilant if their loved one is excessively losing weight or presenting as malnourished.
Neglect can lead to long-term health problems, so the response is often urgent, often aided by a lawyer who can help you navigate the law and ensure your loved one's needs are met.
Unexplained Financial Activity
Financial abuse is another type of nursing home neglect that families should be on the watch for.
However, if your loved one is exhibiting any signs of sudden financial activity, such as overdrawn accounts, missing money, or suspicious charges.
Takeaways
When nursing home neglect and abuse occur, it is a very serious matter that can have permanent ramifications pertaining to the health of your loved one. Keep these key points in mind:
- Recognizing red flags that indicate abuse, including injuries with no clear explanation, abrupt behavior changes, and ignoring basic needs, is essential in gauging when intervention might be warranted.
- Recognize unusual financial transactions or a lack of oversight—the latter could also indicate abuse or neglect.
- If you notice any of these red flags, you should get in touch with an experienced lawyer who focuses on nursing home abuse to investigate the matter for you.
- A lawyer can help you get to the bottom of things and protect your loved one’s rights.
If you can identify signs of abuse early on, you may be able to protect your loved one and get them the care they deserve.
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