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Signs of Elder Abuse in Care Facilities

signs of elder abuse in care facilities

We are coming out of the pandemic here in 2021. One of the best parts of returning to normal activities is seeing and spending time with elderly loved ones. Many will likely note the changes that the parent or grandparent has gone through. Some may have been noticeable during Zoom calls or regular phone cases, whether they are more physically frail or declined mentally. Another issue to watch for is signs of elder abuse in care facilities.

The staff in elder care facilities and nursing homes have been under tremendous stress during COVID, and many performed as heroes and should be celebrated for their dedication. Others, however, may not have acted virtuously. So it is an excellent time to remind folks about the signs of abuse to our most vulnerable.

Physical Warning Signs of Elder Abuse

This is generally the most recognizable form. It is a form of domestic violence defined as:

  • The victim endures injuries due to physical force where they are assaulted, punched, shoved, choked, slapped, or beat.
  • The victim endures impairment that is either unexplained or suspicious.
  • The victim endures injuries due to rough handling during caregiving.
  • The victim endures the practice of physical restraints.

Some warning signs of nursing home abuse may not be as obvious. You’ll want to check for signs of repeated falls during the nursing home stay. Ask the staff for an updated fall risk assessment.

Examples of Emotional Abuse in Senior Care Facilities

This is the verbal or non-verbal form that inflicts emotional pain, anguish, or distress to victims.

Examples include when the caregiver:

  • Ignores or threatens to ignore the person they are charged with caring for.
  • Takes steps to isolate the victim from family, friends, or favorite activities.
  • Places them in a closet or dark room as punishment.
  • Blames or scapegoats the victim.
  • Harasses, humiliates, ridicules, or even resorts to name-calling.
  • Withholds or threatens to withhold medication.

Results from these actions can lead to changes in the victim’s personality. They can exhibit such behavior as fear, yelling, or cursing from those with no history of this behavior, mood swings, or overall signs of anxiety, anger, or depression.

Senior Citizens Have Rights

Many families are thankful for the care their elderly loved ones get and may even be concerned to raise questions about the quality of the care. However, there are strict laws regarding elder abuse at the state and federal levels. Loved ones can start by trying to get answers from the staff and facility administration. If the answers are insufficient or far-fetched, they may need to report it to the authorities or take legal action.

Our compassionate elder abuse lawyers fight for those who have been taken advantage of in senior care facilities. Call us today for a free consultation.

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