Recognizing the 7 Signs of Elder Abuse (PDF)

It is essential to be aware of the indicators of elder abuse, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, financial abuse, neglect, isolation, sexual abuse, and medical neglect. This article provides insight into these seven cues. It is important to take steps to protect your aging friends or family members before an issue arises. If you suspect the mistreatment of an older adult, it is critical to seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Elder abuse, what is it?

Elder abuse is a form of mistreatment and neglect often inflicted on elderly individuals living in nursing homes. This can include failing to complete tasks, acting intentionally, or not providing sufficient care as would be ordinarily expected of the institution. Such behavior can lead to health problems, injury, and even death for residents; regardless of whether an employee means ill intent, the staff is responsible for meeting their needs and fulfilling basic duties.

The most common signs of elder abuse

It is impossible to anticipate or anticipate nursing home mistreatment when placing a relative in a retirement care facility. If family members seem different in the nursing home, particularly if they seem uncomfortable throughout their stay, frequent check-ins can be a sign that maltreatment is occurring. Nursing home neglect can be detected by the following warning signals

1. Reduced Mobility

Nursing homes that house patients with restricted mobility typically aim to promote physical activity and prevent complications arising from inactivity. However, if a patient refuses to participate, it could be an indication of neglect. This may warrant further investigation to ensure that the patient is receiving the care and attention they require.

2. New Injuries

Sudden and unexplained injuries, such as those resulting from slip-and-fall accidents or physical abuse by staff members, are concerning signs of elder neglect. Failure to promptly treat these injuries only adds to the severity of the neglect. If you suspect that your loved one is being neglected or abused, seek legal assistance immediately to protect their rights and well-being.

3. Poor Hygiene

Nursing home residents, particularly those who are immobile, require assistance with personal hygiene tasks like bathing. The absence of such support can lead to poor hygiene and other associated health issues. As a loved one or caregiver, it’s important to ensure that your loved one is receiving the necessary support and care to maintain their hygiene and well-being. If you suspect that your loved one is not receiving adequate care, seek legal assistance to protect their rights and hold the nursing home accountable.

4. Mood Shifts

Sustained exposure to staff abuse can have serious and long-lasting consequences, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other related conditions. Such experiences can also intensify one’s feelings of contempt or fear toward nursing home staff. If you suspect that your loved one is being abused, it’s crucial to take legal action immediately to protect their well-being and hold the responsible parties accountable. Our law firm is here to help you seek justice for your loved one’s suffering.

5. Missing Money

Elderly residents in nursing homes are not immune to financial exploitation, particularly if they are vulnerable and easy targets. There have been instances where access to their financial assets has been stolen and utilized without their knowledge or consent. It’s crucial to be vigilant and monitor the financial activity of your loved ones in nursing homes to prevent such instances from occurring. If you suspect financial abuse, seek legal assistance immediately to protect your rights and assets.

6. Unexpected Weight Loss

Depriving a nursing home resident of food can be considered a form of abuse, and if your loved one is reporting that they are not receiving adequate nutrition or losing weight at an alarming rate, this may be a sign of elder abuse. It’s essential to pay close attention to your loved one’s dietary habits and speak up if you suspect neglect or mistreatment.

7. Lack of Involvement

The effects of elder abuse can manifest in various ways, and one of the most noticeable signs is a change in behavior, such as withdrawal or a lack of enthusiasm for social activities with other residents. Verbal abuse, in particular, can have a significant impact on an elder’s mental health, leading to feelings of shame, worthlessness, and social isolation.

If you suspect your loved one is being subjected to verbal abuse in a nursing home, it’s crucial to take immediate action to ensure their safety and well-being.

Talk to an ATLINJ Georgia of Elder Abuse Lawyer

Our law firm can assist you in identifying the signs of elder abuse and taking appropriate legal action to hold those responsible accountable for their actions. We understand the emotional and financial toll that elder abuse can take on families, and we are committed to helping you seek justice for your loved one.