Key Takeaways
What is Nursing Home Abuse? It includes physical, emotional, financial, and neglectful mistreatment of residents.
Signs of Abuse: Unexplained injuries, emotional withdrawal, or sudden changes in finances.
Liability of Care Facilities: Nursing homes are responsible for ensuring residents’ safety and well-being.
Steps for Families: Document signs of abuse, report incidents, and consult an attorney.
Compensation for Victims: Includes damages for medical expenses, emotional trauma, and loss of dignity.
Nursing Home Abuse: Fighting for the Most Vulnerable
Nursing home abuse is a heartbreaking violation of trust, affecting some of the most vulnerable members of our society. Families place their loved ones in nursing homes expecting care and respect, but abuse and neglect remain widespread issues.
Types of Nursing Home Abuse
Common forms of abuse include:
- Physical Abuse: Hitting, restraining, or causing bodily harm.
- Emotional Abuse: Verbal insults, threats, or isolation.
- Financial Abuse: Exploiting residents by stealing money or manipulating wills.
- Neglect: Failing to provide basic care like food, medication, or hygiene.
Warning Signs
Families should look for:
- Unexplained injuries or frequent falls.
- Sudden weight loss or dehydration.
- Emotional changes, such as withdrawal or fearfulness.
- Unpaid bills or changes in financial accounts.
Steps to Take
- Document the Abuse: Take photos of injuries and keep detailed notes.
- Report to Authorities: Notify the facility and file a complaint with state regulators.
- Consult a Attorney: Legal action can ensure justice and protect other residents.