Placing a loved one in a nursing home is never an easy decision. You want to be sure that your family member will receive the care and support they need, and will be treated with the compassion and respect they deserve. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Nursing home abuse and neglect are serious problems in the United States, and many elderly individuals suffer at the hands of their caretakers.
If you or someone you know has an elderly loved one who has been harmed in a nursing home, it is important to take action right away. At The Dellutri Law Group, PA, we are dedicated to helping the elderly and their families seek justice and compensation for the harm they have suffered.
What Are the Most Common Types of Nursing Home Abuse?
Many types of nursing home abuse can occur, and it is important to be aware of the most common types. This can help you take action if you suspect that your loved one is being harmed.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse occurs when an elderly resident is intentionally harmed by a caregiver. This can include hitting, slapping, pushing, shoving, or using physical restraints. Physical abuse can also include overmedicating a resident or failing to provide for their physical needs, such as not giving them enough food or water.
Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse occurs when a caregiver uses words or actions to cause harm to an elderly resident. This can include yelling, screaming, or using verbal threats. Emotional abuse can also include isolating a resident from others, keeping them from participating in activities, or making them feel guilty or ashamed for needing assistance.
Financial Abuse
Financial abuse occurs when a caregiver steals money or personal property from an elderly resident. Financial abuse can also include forging a resident's signature, taking control of their bank accounts, or using their credit cards without permission. In addition, financial abuse can include deceptive practices such as charging for services that were never provided.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse occurs when a caregiver forces an elderly resident to engage in any type of sexual activity without their consent. This can include sexual assault, rape, or forcing the resident to watch pornography. Sexual abuse can also include inappropriate touching or exposing the resident's body without their consent.
Neglect
Neglect occurs when a caregiver fails to provide for the basic needs of an elderly resident. This can include failing to give them enough food or water, not helping them with personal hygiene, or not providing them with the medical care they need. In addition, neglect can include failing to provide a safe and clean living environment or not helping a resident move around and exercise, which can lead to bedsores or pressure ulcers.
What Are the Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?
It is not always easy to recognize the signs of nursing home abuse, especially when it comes to emotional, financial, or sexual abuse. In many cases, the elderly resident may be too afraid or embarrassed to come forward. That is why it is important to be vigilant and to look for signs of abuse.
Here are some ways to tell if an elderly person is being abused:
- A Change in Character: People who are going through abusive relationships often withdraw from social circles, begin experiencing a large amount of anxiety, and are less friendly overall.
- Mention of a Bank Account Issue: Sometimes an elderly person will reach out to a friend or neighbor by mentioning that they are suddenly worried about money, or do not have money to cover essential bills.
- Lack of Interest in Hobbies or Pets: If an elderly person you know suddenly starts abusing a pet or loses interest in hobbies, activities, or groups, something might be happening at home.
- Changes in Physical Appearance: Often, elders that are experiencing abuse stop showering, combing their hair, or attempting to keep up former appearances.
- The Reach Out: This might be the most important sign listed here — many elderly people will reach out to friends saying that they aren't being treated right. This is when you need to take action and find out what is happening.
How Can a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Help?
If your loved one has been harmed in a nursing home, it is important to consult with an experienced nursing home abuse lawyer right away. A skilled attorney can help you take the following steps to protect your loved one:
- Report the abuse to the proper authorities. If you suspect that your loved one has been abused, you should report it to the nursing home administrator right away. You should also report the abuse to the police and the Florida Department of Elder Affairs.
- Remove your loved one from the nursing home. If you believe that your loved one is in immediate danger, you should remove them from the nursing home right away. You can place them in a safer environment and ensure they receive the care they need.
- Document all signs of abuse. If you suspect that your loved one is being abused, you should document all signs of abuse. This can include taking pictures of any injuries, documenting any changes in behavior, and keeping track of any financial losses. This documentation can be used as evidence in your case.
- Consult with an experienced nursing home abuse lawyer. A skilled attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options. They can also help you file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party.
Do not hesitate to hire our firm to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. We are ready to protect your loved one's rights, health, and best interests inside and outside the courtroom.
Contact the Dellutri Law Group today for a free consultation.
