The Importance of Knowing the Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
The issue of nursing home abuse first gained the public’s attention approximately 50 years ago. Unfortunately, the incidents of nursing home abuse and neglect have continued to increase each year. As the elderly population grows, so too does the number of nursing home abuse survivors. The need for good quality nursing home facilities has been unable to keep up with the ever-increasing elderly demographic. The combination of stressful working conditions, low pay, and shortages of staff have led to the nursing home abuse epidemic the country is facing today. An Illinois personal injury lawyer who specializes in nursing home abuse cases can help families get the financial justice they deserve
Types of Nursing Home Abuse
There are several types of abuse a resident may be exposed to:
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Physical abuse: Physical abuse includes shoving, hitting, pushing, biting, or beating. Physical abuse can also include force-feeding the resident or inappropriate use of drugs.
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Emotional abuse: The actions of nursing home staff do not have to be physical to be considered abuse. Emotional abuse inflicted on residents includes verbal and nonverbal acts to humiliate, intimidate, or insult the resident.
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Sexual abuse: This happens when a resident is the victim of non-consensual sexual contact. Some signs of sexual abuse include bruising around the genital area or breasts, genital infections, and bloody or torn underclothing.
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Financial abuse: Financial abuse by nursing home staff is on the rise. This happens when unauthorized persons access the resident’s assets, funds, or property.
Signs of Abuse
It can be difficult for a family to realize that their elderly loved one is being abused, especially if family members live a distance away and are unable to visit on a regular basis. However, it is critical for families to remain vigilant. If there are any suspicions that your loved one is being abused or neglected, go with those instincts and investigate. If you see any of these signs, there is a strong indication that abuse or neglect is occurring:
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Mental confusion, weight loss, and dry, fragile skin: If you notice any changes in skin condition and weight of your loved one, this could be a warning of dehydration and/or malnutrition. Slurred speech and chapped lips are also signs.
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A decline in mental health: Emotional health is also a strong indicator that something is wrong. If your loved one is showing signs of emotional distress – agitation, depression, withdrawal – they may be suffering abuse. Isolating themselves, lashing out, and difficulty sleeping should also raise red flags.
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Unexplained physical injuries: These include bruises, broken bones, and bedsores.
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Mismanagement of medication: Unmarked prescription bottles or outdated medication often indicate neglect or abuse.
Contact a Kane County, IL Nursing Home Neglect Attorney Today
If you suspect your loved one is being abused by nursing home staff, do not delay calling Kinnally Flaherty Krentz Loran Hodge & Masur P.C. at 630-907-0909 to schedule a free and confidential consultation with a dedicated Aurora, IL nursing home abuse lawyer and find out what legal recourse you may have to ensure your loved one is protected.
