Know The Signs of Nursing Home Neglect Before Your Loved Ones Are Harmed!

Do You Know the Signs and Symptoms of Nursing Home Neglect?

When the time comes to move a loved one into a nursing home the transition can be tough, but the thought that they will not receive necessary care is practically unbearable. The entire reason behind someone moving to a care facility is to make sure she receives the help that she needs in day-to-day life. As sad as it is to consider, nursing home neglect does happen. As pointed out in an article on Suite101, nursing home neglect is not always intentional, but still must be identified and corrected. Fortunately there are some signs to be aware of that can signal the need for further investigation.

According to HelpGuide.org, elder neglect accounts for more than half of the reported cases of senior abuse. This is an especially alarming statistic when we consider that many cases go undetected and unreported. Unlike abuse situations, the signs and symptoms of nursing home neglect can be very subtle. Depending upon the communication abilities of a nursing home resident, sometimes information about neglect can be obtained through speaking with the nursing home resident and asking questions about the level of care. If a resident is unable to verbally communicate, assessing the situation can be more complicated, but not impossible. It is important to follow one's instincts and investigate any neglect suspicions, especially for those who can no longer speak for themselves.

Some signs of nursing home neglect go undetected because they can be seen as a part of regular aging and deteriorating health, but closer examination will often reveal further signs. If a resident is showing signs of malnutrition, dehydration or dramatic weight loss there is cause for investigation. Bed sores are one of the more obvious signs to look for, as are dirty bed sheets and clothing. Another signal is a lack of regular grooming and hygiene, including bathing and changing of soiled undergarments. Medication mistakes can also be a sign of inattentiveness, as well as infections and illnesses that never seem to clear up or often reoccur. A less obvious form of neglect, until an accident occurs, is the leaving of the resident in an unsafe situation. Falls and disorientation can occur when an elder is left unattended in an area that is unsafe for her specific medical condition. A recent Reader's Digest story gives a face to these distressing situations.

Most seniors in nursing homes will receive the level of care they need and deserve. Regrettably, there are times when those who truly need help do not receive the assistance. It is important to speak with an experienced attorney if you need elder abuse help. Our team has an extensive background in this area and know how to sort through the complexities. We can offer you a free assessment of your case. Just take a moment to fill in our form and we will be in touch to discuss your options.

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