The signs of nursing home abuse are not always clear. While physical abuse can leave obvious signs, there are other types of abuse or neglect that are invisible to the naked eye. If you believe your elder family member is a victim of nursing home abuse, a seasoned injury attorney could review their injury for evidence of mistreatment.
If you are suspicious that your family member sustained nursing home abuse, there are a number of signs to watch for. On their own, these signs might not mean much. A skilled nursing home abuse attorney could help families learn about the warning signs of nursing home abuse in Lancaster.
Unexplained Injuries
Accidents happen in nursing homes. Residents often struggle with balance, and many are more susceptible to injuries after a fall. When accidents happen, the nursing home will typically make a report to create a paper trail.
Some injuries are unexplained, however. When it is unclear how a nursing home resident suffered an injury, it could be a sign of abuse or neglect. This could include a series of minor injuries, like bruises. It could also include severe injuries like broken bones.
Unexplained illnesses could also be a sign of abuse. For example, the presence of a sexually transmitted disease could represent that sexual assault might have occurred.
For a free legal consultation with a Warning Signs of Nursing Home Abuse in Lancaster call 1-803-366-0333
Unusual Financial Transactions
Financial abuse can be just as prevalent as physical abuse. While state law ensures an elderly resident retains the right to control their own finances, the nursing home setting often presents opportunities for fraud or intimidation. Examples could include unexplained account withdrawals or estate plan changes.
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Bed Sores
Nursing home abuse often takes the form of neglect. Neglect can occur intentionally or as a result of staffing issues at the facility. In either case, one of the most common signs of abuse is the presence of bedsores. These pressure wounds are a sign of a nursing home resident remaining in the same position for hours at a time. This could indicate that the resident has not been moved or attended to.
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Personality Changes
Suffering abuse at the hands of a caretaker can result in significant stress and worry. The constant fear of further abuse could push a nursing home resident to become closed off emotionally. It could also lead to irritability, outbursts, or fear. These personality changes could also involve taking unusual steps to avoid staff or administrators at a nursing home. When a nursing home resident suddenly changes their outlook on a specific staff member, it could point to abuse or neglect.
Rapid Weight Loss
There are many reasons why rapid weight loss might be another sign of nursing home abuse. The rapid loss in weight might signify that a person’s basic needs were not met. A neglected nursing home resident could drastically lose weight if they are not provided with proper nourishment. Stress and depression could also lead to weight loss. When a nursing home resident is in fear of their physical or emotional well-being, they could choose not to eat.
Speak With a Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Today
It is important to be vigilant when your loved one is in a nursing home. The signs of abuse or neglect could be subtle, especially if you are not paying close attention to their physical or emotional condition.
If you believe your loved one is the victim of abuse or neglect in a Lancaster nursing home, an attorney could assist you with building a civil claim. Schedule a consultation today to discuss the warning signs of nursing home abuse in Lancaster.
Call or text 1-803-366-0333 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form