Seniors depend on their loved ones for support when they move into assisted living facilities. Unfortunately, seniors sometimes undergo nursing home abuse from the staff. If they’re unable to communicate with you about the maltreatment they experience, you’ll need to know the warning signs of misconduct. 

What Are Some Tactics Used By Employees?

Studies show more than 5 million elders are abused in nursing homes every year. Mistreatment comes in many forms, including physical and emotional abuse. People subjected to this type of harm may experience psychological trauma, but carry no physical signs of misconduct.

Verbal abuse includes yelling at residents or trivializing their concerns. These methods are difficult to prove when done in private, especially for residents who have difficulty communicating. Some caretakers may chastise seniors in front of others to embarrass them or talk loudly and disparagingly about them to other staff members.

Nonverbal mistreatment is just as detrimental as verbal abuse, but it’s typically subtler. Punishments, like isolation from other residents and being ignored, are stressful and humiliating. Passive maltreatment can be illegal when it involves overlooking a senior’s call for help or withholding food and water. 

Signs & Effects of Emotional Nursing Home Abuse

While physical abuse is usually noticeable, emotional maltreatment can go on for a long time without being noticed. Many seniors are unwilling to report wrongdoing, and they may be unaware of subtle mental mistreatment. Loved ones must be observant and pay attention to changes in their elder’s behavior.

Unwillingness to participate in favorite activities is a warning sign, along with nonsocial behavior and submissiveness. If your loved one falls into a sudden state of depression, they may stop eating and start expressing feelings of hopelessness. If you notice any of these signs, contact Adult Protective Services.

If a senior loved one has experienced nursing home abuse, you can help them pursue legal action by contacting Reed Law PC LLO in Omaha, NE. Their skilled elder abuse attorney will battle to defend the rights of your loved one and procure payment for nursing home neglect. Visit their website to review cases or call (402) 933-0588 to schedule an appointment.