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When family members place a loved one in a nursing home, they assume that their relative’s needs will be taken care of and that they will be treated with respect. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always happen. Nursing home abuse can have devastating consequences, bringing physical suffering and severe emotional distress to both the abused and their families. Fortunately, such tragedies can be stopped. Here’s how.

Education

Regardless of whether an elder is being cared for in their own house or a nursing home, educating yourself on the signs of abuse will go a long way toward stopping mistreatment before the problems become even worse.

Abuse may include acts of physical violence that leave bruises and other unexplained injuries, but it often involves neglect as well. Withholding primary care such as fluids can have serious health consequences. If your loved one can’t bathe themselves, regular cleaning and changing are essential for their quality-of-life. Some nearly-immobile patients need to be turned regularly so that they don’t acquire bed sores.  

nursing home abuseBesides these physical manifestations of abuse, seniors may also be subjected to verbal abuse. If they are often yelled at or demeaned it can result in them withdrawing from others or displaying bursts of temper, which could then be misinterpreted as symptoms of a mental health condition like dementia.

Seeking Support

The only way you’ll know if nursing home abuse is taking place is if you visit your loved one and see them first-hand. Keep in mind that your loved one needs the social contact too—and that stopping by can make them feel more comfortable in their new living situation.

However, if they suddenly seem to get worse after moving, or if they refuse to talk in the presence of the nursing home’s staff members, it is a sign that something might be amiss. If, after observation and inquiries, you still suspect ill-treatment, get assistance right away. Reporting the situation to law enforcement can bring a stop to the abuse while reaching out to doctors will address the medical consequences associated with it. Counseling may be needed after such incidents as well.

 

If a loved one has suffered nursing home abuse, contact Reed Law Offices in Omaha, NE. As a specialized elder abuse attorney, Shayla Reed understands what an emotional situation this can be and what needs to be done to receive a positive outcome on your case. To schedule a free consultation with this nursing home lawyer, visit her online or call (402) 933-0588.

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