More than 15,000 complaints of neglect and abuse were made to the nursing home Ombudspersons in 2020. The abuse may be physical, sexual, or psychological. Financial exploitation and resident-on-resident abuse are also possible. Residents of nursing homes may be abused or mistreated by therapists/certified nursing assistants, physicians, administrators and other staff.

Abuse and negligence in nursing homes can cause emotional injury, physical injury, and even death. By becoming familiar with the signs of mistreatment in nursing homes, you can take steps to ensure your loved ones’ safety and happiness. This article discusses the five signs of abuse or neglect in a care facility.


#1: Falls and fractures

Falls are the most common nursing home abuse complaint. Falls can cause a fracture or broken bone in a resident of a nursing facility. It could be caused by an assault or negligence. Falling can cause broken bones such as ankle, hip and arm fractures. Fractures of any kind can cause seniors to experience a permanent decline in their quality of life. Falls in nursing homes can also lead to traumatic brain injuries, which, in severe cases may result either permanent disability or even death.


#2 -Bedsores


Bedsores are also called pressure ulcers or decubitus sores. They occur when the blood supply to the skin is interrupted. Bedsores are more common in seniors who live in nursing homes. This is especially true for those who have mobility problems or are completely immobile. Bedsores are not always preventable, but some can be caused by neglect. Untreated bedsores can cause an open wound on a loved one if they are not treated. In the worst cases, bedsores can penetrate deeper into the skin and expose bone. This could lead to infection.


#3 Malnutrition & Dehydration

Studies indicate that roughly 20% of nursing home residents have experienced some degree of malnutrition. This may be due to cognitive impairment, depression or swallowing difficulties, but it can also be caused by neglect and abuse on the part of nursing home staff and administrators. It could be due to a lack of food options, inadequate supervision, or low staffing. Malnutrition can compromise the immune system of a victim and lead to serious health complications such as electrolyte balance, urinary track infection, renal failure and weight loss.


#4 – Unexplained physical injuries


Physical abuse can cause injuries to nursing home residents. This is when force is used to cause pain, injury, or harm. If your loved one has injuries that are not explained, or have been poorly explained, such as bruises, black eye, cuts, dislocations and broken bones, internal bleeding, or burns/injuries, it could be physical abuse. There may be physical signs of restraint, such as rope marks. Physical abuse can be indicated by broken eyeglasses and hearing aids.


#5 – Money problems


In nursing homes, financial abuse can lead to victims being unable to pay their bills. Financial abuse is the unauthorized, improper or illegal use of money, assets, properties, or benefits belonging to a senior. Unaccounted for banking or bank account modifications, unauthorized withdrawals with ATM cards, unpaid bill despite having sufficient funds are all signs of financial abuse.


Endnote

In a nursing facility, a senior can be abused or ignored. Knowing how to recognize nursing home neglect and abuse can help you determine whether your loved one is happy and well-cared for.

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