Nursing Home Abuse

If you suspect a loved one is being abused, there are actions you can take. After all, these homes are supposed to make certain every regulation is met all the time. Such regulations are intended to keep each and every resident safe.

Abuse Warning Signs:

First and foremost, you need to know what to look for — as far as warning signs of abuse go. The National Center on Elder Abuse has given us specific signs to notice. Such abuse can occur in a residential home, as well as a nursing home.

1. Unexplained bruises, broken bones, abrasions or burns, and pressure spots. If you notice evidence of injury, which cannot be easily explained by day-to-day living, this should raise a red flag.

2. Unexpected behavioral changes, alertness (or lack thereof), and personality alterations. If your loved one just doesn’t seem like himself/herself, begin to be on the lookout for potential abuse.

3. Strange depressive moods, including non-participation in usual activities or meals. When someone gets in a sad mood and stays to themselves and eats less, something is almost certainly wrong with that person.

4. There are other physical changes to be aware of, which may include bedsores, medical conditions that aren’t taken care of, constant thirst, improper hygiene, or unexpected weight loss.

5. Watch for a strain in the relationship a resident has with his/her caregiver. Is a staff member threatening or belittling patients? Do they argue with each other? Does the situation seem tense? If you notice any of these factors, take a closer look at the situation.

Steps You Can Take:

First, let the nursing home manager know about your concerns, and present these in writing.

Secondly, visit regularly — even unexpectedly, and various times during the day — to verify if the abuse has ended.

Also, if you see medical issues, ask for a doctor to intervene. Also, check back with that doctor after reporting the issue(s).

Lastly, present your issues to your state long-term ombudsman. He/she will study your problems and make sure they’re addressed.

If there is obvious life and death danger, call 911 right away.