5 Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
We trust nursing home to care for our senior loved ones who require daily assistance. Sometimes, however, we may find that nursing home staff engage in abusive behaviors and fail to provide our older adults with the high-quality care they deserve. If your senior is in a care facility, it’s important to be aware of the five signs of nursing home abuse listed below.
If your loved one is in a nursing home and you notice signs of abusive behavior, contact the skilled Texas nursing home abuse lawyers at Begum Law Group Injury Lawyers. We will investigate your case, inform you of your options, and fight for you to obtain the outcome you deserve.
Contact us today at 866-523-4167 to schedule a free and confidential consultation of your case with The Law Giant.
Identifying Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Five common signs of care facility abuse that occur across Texas include:
Pressure Sores
Also known as bedsores, pressure sores occur when there is unrelieved pressure on a senior’s skin. They can lead to serious health issues such as infections and other life-threatening injuries. In most cases, pressure sores are seen on the back, hips, elbow, ankles, heels, and other areas of the body where bone and skin are close in contact. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that around one in 10 residents suffer from pressure sores due to improper medical care and a lack of attention by nursing home staff.
Sudden Behavioral or Mood Changes
You know your senior loved one the best. If you notice they are not acting like themselves, abuse may be occurring. For example, if your older loved one is usually cheerful and outgoing, and they suddenly seem agitated, fearful, or sad, this should be a red flag. Sudden behavioral or mood changes often arise when a nursing home resident is being mistreated.
Dehydration or Malnutrition
It is a nursing home’s responsibility to ensure your senior loved one is receiving all of the food and water they need to lead a healthy life. Extreme weight loss, dry mouth, swollen tongue, reduced urination, weakness and fatigue, and dry, cracked lips are all signs that your older adult may be facing dehydration and/or malnutrition.
Changes in Finances
Sadly, some nursing home staff engage in financial abuse, making it important for you to keep an eye on your senior’s finances. Unexplained withdrawals from their bank account; missing cash from their room; unusual goods or services that your senior would not have purchased on their own; and changes in power of attorney, property titles, or wills may indicate your senior is a victim of financial abuse.
Poor Hygiene
Poor hygiene is typically the result of a nursing home being understaffed. If you visit your older loved one at their care facility and find that they are unbathed and wearing dirty clothing, you have the right to be concerned. While poor hygiene is usually associated with resident care, it can also relate to the care of the facility. Dirty bathrooms, eating areas, and living areas can lead to illnesses and serious medical problems.
What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse
If you suspect that your loved one is facing harm in their care facility, begin by questioning the nursing home staff and management. They should be able to answer any questions you may have and explain any situation you believe may be a sign of abuse.
If possible, speak to your loved one privately and find out how they feel. Keep in mind that they may be hesitant to tell you the truth. Take photographs that may serve as evidence, and contact a nursing home abuse lawyer right away.
Contact a Texas Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer for Help
When you place your loved one in a care facility, you expect them to remain safe and free from harm. This is unfortunately not always the case, as nursing home abuse and neglect is a growing issue across the United States. If your senior loved one is showing any of the above signs of nursing home abuse, it is in your best interest to reach out to The Law Giant at Begum Law Group Injury Lawyers right away.
To schedule a free consultation of your case, contact us today at 866-523-4167.
