Nursing home abuse is an issue that is common in facilities across the nation, and you may be shocked to learn how common the problem is. In fact, as many as 1 in 3 older adults have been a victim of nursing home abuse. There are various types of abuse and warning signs can range vastly from person to person. The most common type of abuse is neglect. If you believe you or a loved one is enduring a form of abuse from a caretaker, it is important to know and keep track of the warning signs. 

Types of Abuse in Nursing Homes

Physical abuse in nursing homes can be anything ranging from kicking, pushing, hitting and more. Any instance when a caretaker inflicts intentional pain on a patient. This type of abuse can also be referred to as active abuse, and is the easiest to observe. Some patients may be abused at their most vulnerable states which makes it more difficult to find a witness, so it is extremely crucial to look for signs. 

Neglect in nursing homes may not be as intentional as other forms of abuse. Due to short staffing or resources, some facilities may be outnumbered and therefore patients do not get the care they deserve. Some examples include lack of attention, incorrect medicine doses and more. Whether intentional or accidental, the consequences of this may be detrimental and neglect should never go unreported. 

Sexual abuse in nursing includes any form of unwanted sexual activity. It is crucial to be aware of possible signs of sexual abuse because often patients in the most vulnerable states are the ones taken advantage of. Sexual abuse has the potential to take toll on a patients physical and mental health. 

Signs of Abuse

Abuse in nursing homes is not always easy to spot. However, if you remember to be vigilant and look out for warning signs you are more likely to stop and report the issue. Rosenbaum injury law firm curated a list of the most common signs of abuse in nursing homes:

  • Any marks on the body that have repeatedly shown up with no solid explanation. 
  • Sudden withdrawal from normal activities or a personality shift.
  • Changes in financial situations.
  • Bedsores or any unattended medical needs.
  • Threatening behavior.
  • Strained or tense relationships.
  • Significant weight loss. 

Take note of how caretakers act when family visits. Suspicious behavior, like a caretaker not allowing you to be alone with your loved one, should always go reported. In these cases, it is always better to be safe than sorry. 

How To Take Action

The thought of being taken advantage of at a place you go in a time of need is a scary thought, but justice should and can be served. If you think you or a loved one has endured abuse in a nursing home make sure you take the steps to find a lawyer you trust. Finding a skilled firm will help to ease the many stresses of taking legal actions. Remember, justice can be served!