In cultures around the world, older adults and senior citizens are highly regarded and respected members of their communities. As such, taking care of them is a critical aspect for many. When a loved one grows older and requires more intensive and constant care, you may be unable to meet their needs. As such, finding a nursing home where they can reside can help ensure they get the care they need. If you discover, however, that your loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse, it can be devastating. This blog explores the signs to look for, what to do if you suspect your loved one is being abused, and why connecting with nursing home abuse attorneys is critical to fighting on behalf of your loved one.
What is nursing home abuse?
Nursing home abuse occurs when a patient or resident at a nursing home is subjected to physical, mental, emotional, or financial abuse by the employees and caretakers of the facility. It’s also important to understand that by law, those in nursing homes have certain rights. Restrictions of these rights by staff can also constitute abuse.
The most common forms of abuse include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Physically striking patients (hitting, slapping, punching)
- Using restraints
- Withholding food or medication
- Withholding mail
- Refusing to let visitors see patients
- Sexually abusing patients
- Neglecting residents
- Humiliating or taunting patients
- Tricking residents to sign over banking information to the facility
What signs should I look for?
Though it can be incredibly upsetting to think about, knowing the signs of nursing home abuse is critical to ensure that your loved one is safe. Unfortunately, many victims are afraid to report the abuse they experience for fear of retaliation. In other instances, they may have cognitive decline issues like dementia that make it hard for them to report their experiences. As such, staying alert and looking for signs is critical if you have a loved one in a nursing home.
However, you should also look for bruises, cuts, and injuries, as well as signs of poor hygiene as these can all indicate that someone has been neglected or abused while in the care of others.
What should I do if I suspect a loved one is being abused?
If you have reason to believe a loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse in Pennsylvania, understanding the steps you must take to protect them during these times is critical. Generally, you’ll want to begin by filing a complaint with the Pennsylvania Department of Health. They will investigate the claims to help ensure that the patients in the care of the facility are safe.
Next, you’ll want to connect with an experienced attorney from Friedman Schuman Layser as soon as possible. Unfortunately, many are unaware of their rights, leading them to bear the financial damages alone. However, our team will explore all possible avenues to hold the facility liable and help you recover compensation. Connect with us today to learn how we can assist you through these complex matters.
