Spotting Abuse and Neglect in Nursing Homes

Placing your elderly loved one in an assisted living center or nursing home is a tough decision. Concerns about respectful treatment and adequate care can weigh heavily on caregivers’ minds. While these facilities must meet state and federal regulations, many struggle with understaffing, which often leads to overworked or undertrained personnel.

Sadly, elder abuse affects around one in 10 Americans age 60 and older, according to the National Council of Aging. This mistreatment ranges from basic care neglect to emotional and social needs neglect, potentially resulting in severe health issues such as bed sores or even death.

If your loved one has suffered due to nursing home negligence or abuse, pursuing justice and compensation is crucial. HHP Law Group's nursing home negligence lawyers support victims in Columbia, South Carolina, and throughout the state, navigate the legal complexities and seek recourse for their injuries.

Common Forms of Nursing Home Abuse

Nursing home abuse is a significant concern for seniors and their families, but it can be difficult to spot. Several common forms of abuse exist, each with profound physical and emotional effects on victims. These experiences can leave elders feeling frightened or hesitant to report the abuse they've endured.

• Physical abuse: Among the most prevalent forms of elder abuse in nursing homes, physical abuse encompasses any use of force causing harm or pain to a senior citizen. Instances range from slapping and hitting to pushing or restraining against their will.

• Emotional abuse: This type of abuse is profoundly harmful, leaving lasting psychological scars on the elderly. It includes verbal insults, belittling language, and even withholding communication. Additionally, emotional abuse may involve intimidation, humiliation, and manipulation. 

• Sexual abuse: This occurs when any sexual behavior or contact happens without a person's consent. It covers unwanted touching, fondling, rape, molestation, and inappropriate comments or gestures. Victims often endure physical pain and emotional distress, which can result in lasting psychological trauma.

• Financial abuse: This happens when someone misuses an elderly person's money for their own benefit. It can involve taking money without permission, forging signatures, or altering financial documents for personal gain.

• Neglect or abandonment: This form of elder abuse happens when caregivers intentionally fail to give necessary care, causing physical and emotional harm. Examples include withholding food or water, leaving the resident unattended for long periods, or neglecting medical needs, potentially resulting in bedsores. Detecting abandonment or neglect can be challenging as it may not be immediately apparent.

Identifying Signs of Neglect in Nursing Homes

It's crucial to identify neglect to ensure elderly loved ones receive the care they deserve in nursing homes. If you suspect neglect or abandonment, it's important to consult a nursing home negligence lawyer promptly. Here are some warning signs to watch for:

• Malnutrition or dehydration: Elderly residents have specific nutritional and hydration needs. Weight loss, signs of dehydration, or complaints about thirst may indicate neglect in meeting these essential needs.

• Poor hygiene: Nursing homes are responsible for maintaining cleanliness and helping residents with personal hygiene, including bathing and dental care. Neglecting basic hygiene standards, such as leaving residents dirty or unkempt, is a red flag.

• Falling injuries or bruises: While falls are common among the elderly, nursing homes should provide a safe environment to minimize slip-and-fall accidents. Frequent falling – leading to injuries or bruises – suggests inadequate supervision or unsafe conditions within the facility.

• Bedsores: Also known as pressure ulcers, these develop due to prolonged pressure on the skin and tissue, often from lack of movement or support. Untreated bedsores can lead to severe health complications, including:

• Cancer risk: If left untreated, some bedsores can become chronic wounds, which may elevate the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma.

• Infections: Open bedsores are susceptible to bacterial infections, such as cellulitis (skin infection) and osteomyelitis (bone infection).

• Sepsis: Untreated infections from bedsores can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition where the body's immune system overreacts, potentially resulting in septic shock and death.

How Nursing Home Negligence Lawyers Can Assist Your Family

In a world where our elderly loved ones' golden years can be tarnished by neglect and abuse, awareness and action are critical. Recognizing signs of neglect and abuse is vital. If you suspect mistreatment of your loved one in a nursing home, seek immediate assistance from a nursing home negligence lawyer.

At HHP Law Group, we are dedicated to protecting seniors' rights and advocating for those who have suffered in silence. Our nursing home negligence lawyers will help you identify warning signs, investigate allegations, and hold negligent parties accountable. Contact us today to discuss your concerns and take the first step toward ensuring your loved one's dignity and safety.