How to Identify Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and What to Do Next [2022]
Nursing home abuse is unfortunately a common problem in the United States. Elderly adults who are dependent on others for assistance are often the victims of abuse, neglect and mistreatment. This can include physical abuse, verbal abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse and financial exploitation. If you suspect that your loved one is being abused in a nursing home, it is important to take action right away. In this blog post, we will discuss how to identify the signs of nursing home abuse and what to do next.
If you believe that your loved one is in immediate danger, you should call 911 right away. Nursing home abuse is a serious crime and the authorities will take it very seriously.
Listen When A Dependent Adult Speaks Up
How to Report Nursing Home Abuse
If your loved one has told you that they are being abused, this is obviously a huge red flag. They may be too scared or embarrassed to tell you what is really going on, so it is important to ask questions and try to get to the bottom of what is going on if they mention anything out of the ordinary.
Be Aware of Mood or Behavioral Changes
Another sign of nursing home abuse is changes in your loved one's mood or behavior. If they become withdrawn, depressed or anxious, this may be a sign that something is wrong. They may also start acting out in ways that are unusual for them.
Onset of Unexplained Injuries
Other physical signs of nursing home abuse include bruises, cuts, burns, broken bones and bed sores. If your loved one has any unexplained injuries, this is definitely something to be concerned about.
Changes in Personal Appearance
If your loved one's personal appearance has changed, this may be another sign of abuse. This can include changes in hygiene, weight loss or gain, and changes in clothing.
Bills or Property Missing / Unexplained Charges on Accounts
If you notice that your loved one's bills are missing or their property is missing, this may be a sign that they are being financially exploited. Nursing home staff members may steal their money or belongings, so it is important to keep an eye out for this. Another financial red flag is unexplained charges on your loved one's accounts. This can include credit cards, bank accounts and medical bills.
Changes in Financial Situation
When You Should Get a Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Involved
If you notice changes in your loved one's financial situation, this may be a sign that they are being exploited financially. Nursing home staff members may steal their money or use their credit cards without permission, so it is important to be aware of this.
What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse
If you suspect that your loved one is being abused in a nursing home, the first step is to talk to them about it. If they are able to communicate with you, find out what is going on and whether or not they want to file a formal complaint. If they are not able to communicate with you, you will need to contact the nursing home and/or authorities. Nursing home abuse is a serious problem and it is important to take action right away if you suspect that your loved one is being abused.
How to Report Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing home mistreatment is a serious offense that can quickly get worse and even deadly if left unchecked. There are several methods for reporting nursing home mistreatment.
Reporting abuse at a nursing home can be done by any of the following methods:
- The Ombudsman (representatives for residents) can help too.
- Contacting your state's Adult Protective Services (APS)
- Stepping in to work with doctors and staff to solve issues
- Contacting A Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
You can start an inquiry into a resident's general well-being when you report concerns about abuse. You may be able to hold nursing homes legally responsible if they harmed your loved one.
Options if You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse
Contact the Ombudsman
A nursing home ombudsman is a third party who protects the rights of nursing home patients and solves any concerns relating to their health and safety. Ombudsmen are usually appointed by the state government.
The role of ombudsmen is to assist customers in resolving problems with their employers. They are charged with:
- Residents' complaints of poor treatment, neglect, or abuse are frequently addressed.
- Education of the elderly about their rights and available resources
- Providing suggestions based on their previous encounters with elderly individuals
Under the Older Americans Act of 1972, all states and several U.S. territories were granted a long-term care ombudsman program.
Contact the Adult Protective Services (APS)
How to Identify Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and What to Do Next
You can report nursing home neglect or abuse to local law enforcement agencies or your state's Adult Protective Services (APS) department.
If an older person has been seriously assaulted or perished as a result of abuse, the cops can assist you in taking immediate action.
The following are examples of criminal charges that police may bring:
- Homicide or assault
- Emotional assault or abuse
- Sexual or financial coercion
Adult Protective Services (APS) is a government agency that investigates reports of elder abuse, including abuse in nursing homes. APS (CA's APS here) can provide your loved one with resources and support, and they may also be able to file a restraining order or take other legal action to protect your loved one from their abuser.
Call your local APS branch if you believe an older loved one might be suffering from abuse or neglect. A social worker can document your worries and begin an inquiry into the elder's well-being.
To find phone numbers for local branches of the APS, visit the National Adult Protective Services Association website.
Confidential Reporting
According to the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA), each state has rules in place to allow individuals to submit confidential elder abuse reports (N
Those who disclose nursing home abuse under state laws will be protected from retaliation or legal action, according to the law.
Staff members of assisted living centers are required by law as well as facility rules to report abuse and neglect. Nursing home employees can make a report without incrimination.
If an employee does not make a report, they may face legal penalties. If left unchecked, nursing home abuse may get even worse, which means your loved one will continue to be hurt.
Furthermore, employees and home care providers who do not report abuse may be fired, lose their medical license, or go to jail. Caregivers can avoid these penalties by making sure to report any abuse that they witness.
When You Should Get a Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Involved
If you suspect that your loved one has been seriously harmed by nursing home abuse, you should contact an experienced nursing home abuse attorney. A lawyer can help you investigate the abuse and file a lawsuit against the nursing home. Nursing home abuse is a serious problem, and you should take action to protect your loved one if you suspect that they are being abused.
If your loved one has been the victim of nursing home abuse, they may also want to consider hiring an experienced attorney. An attorney can help them file a complaint or lawsuit against the nursing home and get the compensation they deserve.
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