A modern nursing home is where those who can no longer look after themselves are offered care that keeps them happy, healthy, and safe. For this reason, anyone considering moving their aging parents into a nursing home should know the possible signs of abuse to make sure they have not fallen victim to it.
- Isolation
A nursing home should always allow a relative or friend to visit whenever they want and for as long as possible. If they have indications of abuse, they may try to make visits shorter to avoid the abuser being caught out. If a relative arrives and the resident is happy to see them, but the abuser is not, this should also be considered suspicious. Nursing home abuse lawyers suggest that the family should be allowed to stay there for an entire day with the resident, if necessary.
- Changes in Mood
All residents of nursing homes change over time, but if a resident becomes moody and generally unhappy, this could indicate abuse. If their clothes are torn or there are marks on their bodies, it would be wise to ask what has happened.
- Changes in Behavior
An older adult who has been abused may suddenly become withdrawn, depressed, or even aggressive. Their mood and behavior should not change unless there is an apparent reason. It could be a symptom of abuse.
- Bruises or Burns
Nursing home staff are trained to take care of their residents and administer any care gently and carefully where necessary, but never roughly. If the team is overly rough, this could result in cuts, bruises, or burns. Nursing home abuse lawyers help families by giving them the advice to protect their loved ones from further injury.
- Changes in Physical Health
An older person’s health is particularly delicate, and one should investigate any sudden changes at once. A resident suffering from an illness may suddenly become much more ill or even die due to abuse.
- Neglected Hygiene
A nursing home residents will always have their hygiene looked after by the staff who are required to help them shower, change their clothes, and brush their hair and teeth. It is not the place of the team to show off their hygiene or mind their own business. If the resident has a build-up of dirt or body odor, this could indicate abuse.
- Loss of Interest
A patient being ignored by staff can also take part in any activities they are offered, including games and crafts, with others. It could also be an indication of abuse. It is their right to be involved in such things.
- Weight Loss
A nursing home resident’s weight will fluctuate with their health and diet, but if a resident shows a sudden significant weight loss over a short period, this could be a sign of abuse. They may have been force-fed or prevented from eating to keep them weak and dependent upon the abuser for care.
If you suspect that your parent has been a victim of abuse, you must do something about it immediately to ensure their safety and find out who did what to them. You have a right to know what happened to your parent and why.
