Elder abuse in nursing homes

Having a loved one living in a nursing home can be a great option, as it means having loving workers and dedicated professionals looking after their overall well-being. But unfortunately, nursing home abuse is common in these settings. According to the World Health Organization, a large percentage of nursing home workers have admitted to having abused an elder at least once. As people responsible for our elders, it is vital that we learn to identify the common symptoms or signs in cases of abuse.

Nursing home abuse may or may not be intentional. For example, committing negligent acts such as forgetting to provide medication will also be considered abuse. Both types can have severe consequences for the life and health of the person who has suffered abuse. Some examples of common consequences are:

  • Trauma
  • Depression
  • Health problems
  • Physical injuries
  • Death

Some easy to recognize signs of abuse are bruises, cuts, burns, insomnia, weight loss, and lack of personal hygiene, among others. Identifying any of these signs should be an alarm for loved ones of the elderly and should not be taken lightly. On the contrary, by recognizing these signs, the situation can be investigated and action taken on the matter. Depending on the damage caused, there may be corrective action or even a legal case.

Beyond physical ailments, many seniors can experience emotional damage. For example, they may experience mental health problems such as depression or post-traumatic stress syndrome, which are more difficult to identify. Therefore, it is vital to be aware of changes in mood and behavior in the older adult to notice any signs of abuse.

At Gharibian Law, we believe that our elderly deserve to be treated with dignity and respect until their final days. Our dedicated legal team can help you resolve your case with respect and empathy. Contact us.

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