Discovering when an elder loved one has been the victim of nursing home abuse isn’t always as easy as it might seem. The warning signs may be hidden by their condition. However, once you have uncovered an incident of abuse or neglect, what should you do afterward? The guide below offers advice to help your relative recover.

4 Steps to Take After Discovering Elderly Abuse

1. Treat the Mental & Physical Harm

One of your first concerns after discovering a loved one has been the victim of nursing home abuse is to get them the treatment they need. They may have mild bruises or more serious injuries, such as lacerations, broken bones, or an infection caused by neglect. Additionally, they may require psychological counseling for the depression, anxiety, or PTSD that may have resulted from the abuse.

2. Move Them

As soon as you discover that your senior loved one has been victimized, take steps to change their living situation. Even if the responsible parties are no longer employed at the facility, you and your relative will feel more comfortable at a different nursing home.

3. Pursue a Complaint Against the Facility 

When you find that an assisted living facility has violated its own nursing home regulations in regard to how your loved one has been treated, it’s not unreasonable to assume the same has happened to other residents. By turning to an attorney to pursue a complaint in civil court, you’re accomplishing three goals. First, you’re seeking financial compensation for damages. Second, you’re acting to alleviate an unbearable situation for your family member. Third, you’re bringing these problems to light, so the other residents in the facility won’t continue to suffer.

4. Take a Deeper Interest in Your Loved One’s Care

Once your relative has moved to a new assisted living facility, be vigilant. Review their monthly bills and confirm they’re getting the care for which they have been charged. Also, evaluate their living conditions upon each visit to ensure their needs are not being neglected. Keep an eye out for physical signs of abuse, such as bruises, brush burns from restraints, and unexplained medical treatments.

If you suspect your loved one has been the victim of nursing home abuse, consult an attorney experienced in this area of law. Reed Law in Omaha, NE, specializes in these kinds of cases because this firm is passionate about giving the vulnerable elderly population the voice they deserve in court. To learn more about their services, visit their website. To schedule a consultation, call (402) 933-0588.