Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

The decision to put a loved one in a nursing home is never an easy one, but it may be the best one when the elderly person's condition has deteriorated to the point where they can no longer provide adequate care for themselves, or when continuing to live on their own is dangerous.

Of course, when choosing to move a parent, spouse, or other family member into a nursing home, the quality of the nursing home is no doubt of the utmost importance. We expect nursing homes to provide our loved ones with a high standard of care, entrusting their health and safety to the nursing home professionals. Which is why learning of elder abuse or neglect can be so shocking.

At the law offices of Anderson Hemmat, our nursing home abuse attorneys can help you to file a nursing home abuse complaint, and seek damages for any losses suffered. If you notice any of the following common signs of nursing home abuse, please call our law offices immediately for a free consultation.

Signs of Physical Abuse
The signs of physical abuse are often the easiest to spot, as many of these can be seen with the naked eye. Signs of physical abuse might include:

• Bite marks;

• Bruises;

• Cuts or lacerations;

• Marks indicating use of force and restraint;

• Weight loss;

• Serious deterioration in health condition;

• Burn marks;

• Torn or bloodied clothing; and

• Any unexplained fractures, dislocations, or bone or soft tissue injuries.

Physical abuse can also have emotional consequences, and a resident who is suffering from nursing home physical abuse may also show signs of depression, anger, mood changes, withdrawal, and fear.

Signs of Emotional Abuse and Neglect
Emotional abuse and neglect can be harder to detect. However, it is equally as important to watch out for, and put an end to, should it be occurring. Signs of emotional abuse and neglect include:

• Depression;

• Mood changes;

• Angry outbursts or violence;

• Withdrawal;

• Refusal to eat;

• Refusal to participate in activities;

• Unusual behavior such as rocking back and forth or sucking one's thumb; and

• Fear or unease about being in the nursing home or around a particular caregiver.

It is also possible for financial abuse to occur, in which a caregiver exploits an elderly person and takes advantage of them financially. If you notice major changes to your loved one's financial situation, such as a change to their will, a new line of credit, or major cash withdrawals, financial exploitation may be occurring.

Steps to Take if You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse
If you suspect that your loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse, you should report the abuse to the nursing home manager or supervisor immediately. If you believe that harm is imminent, do not hesitate to file a report with the police. You can also file a complaint with the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment.

We also recommend that you call an aggressive nursing home abuse attorney who can review your case for free and provide you with sound legal advice. Depending upon the circumstances of your case, you may be able to seek damages via a civil action.

You can reach our Denver law office today at (303) 782-9999, or by sending us a confidential message using the intake form on our website. When you choose us, we'll work hard for you.