Moving a loved one into a nursing home is one of the hardest decisions in life. Often, it is the best option, though, and can improve life for both your loved one and yourself. While a nursing home can be the best and safest place for a loved one, you should know that nursing home abuse can be a problem, and it is heartbreaking to think that residents are abused or neglected by staff. Obviously, you should do your due diligence when choosing a facility, but you should also look out for signs of abuse so that you know if you need to take action. Here are some of the signs to look out for.
Complaints From Your Loved One
The most obvious sign that abuse or neglect is taking place is if your loved one tells you. Of course, many will not want to say anything out of fear of causing a nuisance, and there are situations when your loved one may not be reliable, such as if they have a memory disease. This is why you need to consider their situation, speak to other residents, and look out for other signs.
Poor Hygiene
One of the most obvious signs of neglect is poor hygiene. Nursing home residents should be properly looked after and cleaned by staff regularly, so you should be wary if your loved one has poor hygiene. This could include body odor, clothes that are dirty, long nails, bad breath, and frequent infections.
Injuries
Injuries are a serious cause for concern. Of course, bruises and cuts can become more common as people get older, but unexplained cuts or bruises could also indicate neglect or even abuse. Therefore, you should always check over your loved one and ask them about any injuries that they have.
Weight Loss
Weight loss can also be a sign of nursing home malpractice. Again, seniors can lose weight as they age, so it is important to ask them about their meals and if they are getting enough food.
Bed Sores
A clear sign of nursing home abuse is bed sores. Bed sores are lesions that form on the skin from constant pressure on bony areas and can be painful. The most common areas for bed sores include the tailbone, ankles, elbows, and heels. Bed sores are signs of abuse because they indicate that your loved one has not moved or been turned. You can find specialist lawyers for those suffering from bed sores and other signs of nursing home malpractice, and they will be able to seek compensation and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
Isolation
Another sign of nursing home abuse is isolation. If your loved one is always alone, does not take part in activities and complains about loneliness, then this could suggest that they are being neglected and ignored.
It is important to be aware of the main signs of nursing home abuse so that you know what to look out for. While most nursing homes will improve the quality of life for your loved one, you need to know what to look out for in case there is an issue that needs to be addressed.
We are not doctors and this is in no way intended to be used as medical advice and we cannot be held responsible for your results. As with any product, service or supplement, use at your own risk. Always do your own research before using.
We are not lawyers and this is in no way intended to be used as legal advice . We cannot be held responsible for your results. Always do your own research and seek professional legal help.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.