What Is Nursing Home Abuse?

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More than a million people are living in nursing homes throughout the US. Unfortunately, many of these facilities do not meet minimum care conditions and staffing requirements.

Consequently, nursing home abuse has become a significant problem. But what is nursing home abuse, and how can you spot it? Let’s review this issue and discuss the signs to watch for when placing a loved one in a nursing home.

What Is Nursing Home Abuse?

Nursing home abuse is any type of harm inflicted upon nursing home residents by the staff or caregivers of said facility. This type of abuse takes many forms.

Nursing home staff may refuse to administer a resident’s medication promptly. They might physically harm a resident, or they may verbally abuse residents. All are forms of nursing abuse.

Neglect is also a serious issue, and one of the primary forms of nursing home abuse. Understaffed facilities may have well-meaning caregivers, but are unable to provide a satisfactory level of care due to a lack of staff.

Still, there is no excuse for nursing home abuse, no matter the cause. But avoiding it can be tricky. That’s why the family members of elderly individuals must familiarize themselves with the signs of nursing abuse.

Signs of Nursing Abuse

Some of the most common red flags of abusive nursing home facilities include:

  • A lack of programs and activities
  • Staff looking stressed-out or harassed
  • Unfriendly caregiver interactions with residents
  • Highly restricted visiting hours for family members
  • Few outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy

A nursing home that’s full of loud noises and announcements, or one that seems chaotic, is also likely to be a poor choice. Still, these are signs to look for when choosing a nursing home.

If your loved one is currently living in a nursing home, you’ll need to keep an eye out for other forms of abuse. Visiting the facility is the best way to gauge your loved one’s condition, as you’ll be able to check for:

  • Signs of dehydration
  • Bedsores from lack of movement
  • New injuries from “falling”
  • Emotional agitation and unwillingness to converse

Should you notice any of the above symptoms, or things just don’t feel right, don’t hesitate to begin the process of removing your loved one from the facility. It’s also a great idea to contact a lawyer for legal assistance.

Filing a Nursing Abuse Lawsuit

If you suspect your loved one is suffering from nursing home abuse, it’s essential to plan for their release as soon as possible. If that’s not possible, you may also choose to transfer them to an alternate care facility.

It’s also crucial to contact a pensacola nursing home abuse lawyer. Not only will a lawyer help you seek the best course of legal action, but they can also advise you on what steps to take next.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions concerning nursing home abuse. If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to check out our expanded FAQ:

Why Is There Abuse in Nursing Homes?

Nursing homes are hotbeds for abuse due to underpaid and undertrained personnel, many of whom find caregiving stressful. Understaffed facilities are also often to blame.

How Common Is Abuse in Nursing Homes?

Almost one in four nursing home residents will experience some form of nursing home abuse.

What Is the Average Age to Enter a Nursing Home?

The average age of nursing home residents is about 85.

Find a Lawyer for Nursing Abuse Today

What is nursing home abuse? Put simply, it’s any type of harm inflicted upon residents of a nursing home community. Typically, the abusers are staff members and caregivers.

If you notice signs of nursing home abuse at your loved one’s facility, it’s crucial to organize their release as soon as possible. It’s also essential to report the abuse and contact us at Stevenson Klotz Injury Lawyers for legal advice and assistance.

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