When you entrust your loved one to the care of a Rock Hill nursing home, you expect they will have their needs met safely and reliably. However, if you notice warning signs of abuse in a Rock Hill nursing home, it is essential to review the situation carefully.
If you conclude that your loved one has suffered abuse, there are two steps you should consider immediately. The first is to contact the appropriate authorities to report the abuse. The second is to engage a skilled nursing home abuse attorney to ensure hold the perpetrator accountable.
Signs of Abuse
There are many different ways that abuse can manifest in a nursing home. In some cases, frustrated staff can lash out and injure a resident. In other cases, neglect may be enough to constitute abuse. Regardless of the cause, here are some of the most common warning signs of elder abuse in Rock Hill:
Unexpected Health Issues
Medical complications are a part of aging and one of the reasons residents are placed in nursing homes to begin with. However, unexpected and mysterious health concerns could be an indication of abuse. Repeated and unexpected hospitalizations could be the result of violent or careless nursing home employees.
Bed Sores
Bed sores are common in nursing home residents who are bedridden or who have been restrained for long periods of time. These sores are typically preventable, which makes their presence a potential sign of abuse.
Personality Changes
When a nursing home resident suffers repeated abuse, it can have a mental and physical impact. A previously outgoing resident could suddenly become withdrawn, especially when the nursing home staff is present.
Rapid Weight Loss
One of the most prominent signs of abuse or neglect is rapid weight loss. One of the primary goals of a nursing home is meeting the dietary needs of a resident. When they lose weight unexpectantly, it can be a sign of depression or withheld food.
Avoiding Staff
It may be a sign of abuse if a nursing home resident is going to lengths to avoid interaction with the staff or owners of the facility. Avoiding particular staff members can be a symptom of fear of further abuse.
For a free legal consultation with a warning signs lawyer serving Rock Hill, call 1-803-366-0333
Report Elder Abuse
It may be tempting to confront a suspected nursing home abuser. However, notifying the appropriate authorities is the safer option. A confrontation with an abuser can lead to additional mistreatment if the victim remains in their care. Informing law enforcement and notifying the management of the nursing home can lead to a safer resolution in many cases.
After notifying the authorities, it may be beneficial to contact an attorney. A lawyer could review the case and determine its strength. If the claim is viable, an attorney might be able to pursue the abuser or even the nursing home for monetary damages.
Rock Hill Warning Signs Lawyer Near Me 1-803-366-0333
How a Rock Hill Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Could Help
Any unexpected change to the physical or mental health of your loved one could be a warning sign of nursing home abuse in Rock Hill. While it is important to leave any criminal charges to the police, your loved one still has a potentially viable civil claim against the perpetrator. An experienced lawyer could hold the abuser accountable by filing a lawsuit and pursuing damages on behalf of your loved one. To learn more, call Schiller & Hamilton today.
Call or text 1-803-366-0333 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form