Emotional nursing home abuse is more difficult to define and recognize than physical abuse, but it is illegal and harmful all the same. If you have a relative in a long-term care facility, it’s up to you to be their advocate in these situations. The guide below offers signs to look for and steps you can take for your loved one’s protection.

A Guide to Nursing Home Abuse

What Qualifies as Emotional Abuse?

Emotional abuse can come in different forms. Staff members may verbally ridicule or humiliate an elder, perhaps yelling at them. Non-verbally, they may ignore their needs, isolate the patient from other people, or act demeaning or threatening.

How to Recognize It

It is likely that anyone engaged in such behavior will not act out in your presence. Therefore, many times, you have to watch for signs of neglect or abuse in your loved one. If they are suddenly demonstrating a lack of self-esteem, seem to avoid eye contact, or become withdrawn or hopeless, these are all possible indications they are being mistreated. There may also be a sudden unexplained change in their mood or sleeping or eating patterns.

What to Do

If you believe that your loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse, prioritize getting them into a new living situation. Then, consult a nursing home lawyer. They can guide you through reporting the abuse to the right government officials and taking other appropriate action.

Looking for an attorney who specializes in nursing home abuse? The team at Reed Law Offices, serving Omaha, NE, has the experience and passion to fight for your loved one’s rights—whether they have unexplainable bruises or are uncharacteristically frighted and withdrawn. Visit their website to review some of their former cases. Or schedule a consultation with this elder abuse attorney by calling (402) 933-0588.