When our loved ones enter into a nursing home, we hope that they are taken care of in a way that we are not always able to provide for them. Nursing homes offer a variety of services depending on the location; providing medical attention, meals and additional care to elderly individuals that may not be able to care for themselves on their own. While there are many homes that offer a high standard of service to patients, there are still countless cases of abuse each year. Many incidents of nursing home abuse go unreported because no one speaks up for the victim and they may be unable to speak up for themselves. Sometimes the victims of abuse may fear that no one will believe them if they do make a report or they may be mentally unable to do so. That is why it is so important for others to take note of any signs that may be evidence of further issues.
Abuse can show itself in many forms; one of the most evident ways is through physical signs. This can be bruising, broken bones and other injuries which may be the result of more than just a fall. Types of physical abuse can include pushing, hitting, slapping or restraining. A worker may become agitated or overworked and can lash out at patients as a result. This behavior should never be tolerated and the elderly individuals should never be left as the victims. When you do observe any physical signs of abuse, it is important to inquire further and not assume that it was just an accident. The victim may be unwilling to present the information on their own but once they are asked about it they can become more willing to discuss it. Abuse can also be emotional and it is common for many nursing home residents to face treatment that causes internal scarring. This may be the result of yelling, insulting, embarrassment, threatening and blaming. The elderly individual can be left feeling helpless and uncared for. Emotional damage may be noted by the victim become more excluded from others, more reserved, more aggressive, a change in eating behavior, changes in their personality and other abnormalities.
Abuse may also include neglect and passive behavior can be just as damaging as outward abuse. Neglect can include avoiding the day to day care of a patient. They may be left in their bed, unfed, not showered and not provided for medically. Not only can it leave them feeling forgotten, it can lead to serious health risks. Sexual abuse can also be recognized through emotional and physical signs as well. When you believe that a nursing home patient is dealing with abuse, it is often best to report the incident. It is estimated that around 1 out of every 14 elder abuse cases are reported to the authorities, while many of them go unaddressed. If you or a loved one has been a victim, turn to a caring Ft. Lauderdale personal injury attorney the Law Office of Jason T. Corsover, PA as an advocate.
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