Nursing homes are supposed to protect and care for their residents. However, it is common for nursing home residents to suffer from abuse or neglect. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, two out of three nursing home workers have committed abuse in a nursing home facility. If someone you love lives in a nursing home, it would be best if you knew about the most common signs of abuse and neglect. By being on the lookout for the warning signs, you could save your loved one from this hurtful practice and sue the nursing home to recover damages.
Signs that give away abuse or neglect
Older adults who live in nursing homes are at the most risk for abuse and neglect. The sad reality is that most times, those who suffer from abuse or neglect don’t speak about it because they fear doing so would negatively affect them. Because of this, you must be on the lookout for the warning signs. Some common signs of abuse and neglect in nursing homes are:
- Unwashed hair, bad smell, overgrown nails
- Extreme weight loss
- Drowsiness and confusion
- Fear of being touched, giving out aggressive responses and rocking
- Unexplained withdrawals from their bank account
- Unexplained loss of cash
- Dirty bedsheets, unwashed floors, dirty bathrooms
Your loved one may be a victim of abuse or neglect if you spot any of these signs whenever you go visit them. If this happens, you can file a lawsuit against the facility to recover for the damages they have caused to your family member or friend.
Their rightful compensation
The National Association of Nursing Home Attorneys (NANHA) identifies that abuse or neglect often happens because of understaffing or inexperienced, underpaid or poorly managed staff. However, no matter the reason behind the abuse, this practice is never acceptable. If your loved one is a victim, they can fight back and get compensation for their emotional and physical damage in court. Your loved one does not deserve to suffer from abuse or neglect, and you can help them do justice if they are a victim.