Oftentimes, nursing homes give the elderly a sense of community. These institutions provide safety and professional care for various individuals. As a family member, you are perhaps paying for your loved one to live a good life. A well-run nursing home will respect its residents and treat them with dignity.
Unfortunately, not all nursing homes are properly managed. According to the National Council on Aging, one in 10 Americans over the age of 60 have experienced some form of elder abuse.
Listed below are commonly reported causes of abuse or neglect found in nursing homes.
Next steps to identifying abuse or neglect
You may notice nursing home abuse or neglect if you watch for the signs. Faulty equipment, unkept grounds and unleveled walking surfaces are obvious visuals. But some indicators are not as cut-and-dried. A broken pair of glasses, bruises or other subtle signs of restraints can all be hints of physical abuse. Emotional abuse and caregiver neglect can come to light when an elderly resident starts behaving differently, or isn’t suitably dressed for the weather.
If you have witnessed nursing home neglect or abuse, it’s important to contact a protective service agency. You could also file a criminal complaint or lawsuit. Be sure to seek legal counsel when getting involved. Not only are your loved ones affected, but many other residents might be dealing with the silent pain.