Although there has not been much research into elder abuse, evidence suggests that it is just as common in the community than child abuse.
Nursing home abuse cases are often against elders who are unable to speak up and advocate for themselves. This might include people with dementia or other cognitive disabilities. Other times, victims of nursing home abuse are simply too afraid to speak up or are made to believe nobody will believe them.
When we think of abuse, we often think primarily of physical abuse, but elder abuse in nursing homes can include sexual abuse, financial abuse, abandonment, neglect, and emotional abuse as well. This means the signs of nursing home abuse and neglect can vary widely, and the signs may not be what you think.
Because there are many potential signs of nursing home abuse, the presence of one sign does not necessarily mean abuse is happening. In fact, many of the signs of abuse can also be a normal part of aging or a sign of an illness. Nonetheless, if you have a hunch, it is always better to investigate and contact the nursing home abuse hotline in your state.
.
If you suspect abuse or just want to know what signs to look out for, here are some common signs of abuse.
Dehydration and malnutrition: These are signs that your loved one is not being fed regular meals or is not being given nutritious food. You might notice these signs if they are losing weight, seem unusually thirsty, or become very weak.
Mood changes: Mood changes might include depression, anxiety, anger, or aggression.
Behavior changes: Behavior changes, such as avoiding social situations, can be a sign your loved one is being abused. They might try to avoid their abuser or withdraw to hide their abuse. They might also feel self conscious about their abuse and turn inward.
Bruises, broken bones, or other injuries: As people age, falls and injuries unfortunately become more common. However, a healthcare provider can usually determine if an injury is due to abuse. Similarly, if you see injuries that the nursing home staff is attempting to conceal, that is cause for concern.
Poor hygiene: Poor hygiene is another sign a resident is being neglected. He or she should be bathed and cleaned regularly, and the staff should also make sure their room is clean.
Broken belongings: This might include accessories like watches or eyeglasses. It also might include possessions in the resident’s room, such as lamps or decorations.
New or unexplained fears: Abuse can make people feel on edge and fear things they didn’t fear before. This may manifest as startling easily, being afraid of specific places, being afraid of specific people, or being afraid to be alone.
Bleeding, bruises, or sores on genitals: This can be a sign of sexual abuse. Understandably, it might be difficult to notice these signs. If you suspect sexual abuse, consider asking an independent healthcare provider to examine the resident.
Torn or stained underwear: You might notice this when helping your loved one put away laundry or go to the bathroom.
Contracting new sexual transmitted diseases: If your loved one is not having consenual sex, this is concerning sign of sexual abuse.
Unexplained spending: Your loved one might have a higher credit card bill than normal, or you might notice charges at stores they don’t normally buy from.
Confusion about finances: An abuser might take advantage of a resident who doesn't keep a close eye on their spending or who easily gets confused. If they can’t remember where their money went or doesn’t understand why their bank account balance is lower than it should be, this is a sign of financial abuse.
Missing financial documents: This might include checkbooks, debit cards, credit cards, or bank statements.
Unexplained bills: Unexplained bills might include bills for unnecessary medications, therapy, or nursing home charges.
Bed sores: Bed sores can be a sign that your loved one is neglected or abandoned.
Unreported and/or frequent illness: When a nursing home is not reporting illness, it is a concerning sign that they are careless or that they are trying to cover something up
It is very understandable if you are hesitant to report suspected abuse or take your suspicions beyond just that… a suspicion. Many of the signs of abuse can also be completely normal parts of growing older and living in a nursing home. Even if you end up being wrong and there is no abuse happening, it is far better to advocate for your loved one and make sure he or she is safe than to find out later your hunch was right and you did nothing.
Although there has not been much research into elder abuse, evidence suggests that it is just as common in the community than child abuse.
Police in Tonawanda are investigating the murder of a resident of a nursing home. He was discovered outside the facility on Tuesday morning, police stated Friday.
An interview with Alan Cassels on multiple drug use in the elderly
A petition for national efforts to confront the abuse and financial exploitation of our elderly and vulnerable citizens and for real change to end the abuse and address problems in adult guardianships.
Allegations of physical and sexual abuse of nursing home residents frequently are not reported promptly. Local law enforcement officials indicated that they are seldom summoned to nursing homes to immediately investigate allegations of physical or sexual abuse.
Images from a hidden video camera helped the son of a 78-year-old woman convince authorities that his mother was being brutally and repeatedly assaulted by nursing home staff.
By clicking the Submit button, I consent to being contacted by Select Justice, LLC, AAL Media, LLC, LeadClient, Inc. or a law firm at the number I provided. I also consent to receiving advertisements and telemarketing messages by text message or pre-recorded call, either of which may be dialed by an autodialer. I acknowledge that my consent is not required for purchase, that standard message and data rates apply, and that clicking Submit constitutes my electronic signature for my consent to being contacted and my agreement to the Terms and Conditions.
Submitting this form and the information contained therein does not establish an attorney client relationship. The information submitted may be reviewed by more than one attorney and/or law firm. By submitting this form, you understand any information received in response to this questionnaire is general information for which there will be no charge. You further acknowledge that the law for each state may vary, and therefore, you will not rely upon this information as legal advice. Since this matter may require advice regarding your home state, local counsel may be contacted for referral of this matter. By clicking Submit, you acknowledge that the information viewed is advertising and you agree to receive future advertisements from Select Justice, LLC and/or its partners.
Data Use Policy: The information you provide while taking this evaluation may be provided to an attorney or law firm representing clients in your area. An attorney or law firm may contact you by phone or text message regarding this matter. AAL Media, LLC will not provide your contact information to any unaffiliated third parties.