When placing a member of our family in a nursing home, we expect them to receive attention and quality care. Unfortunately, neglect and abuse in nursing homes are real problems that many families face.
There are key signs that people should look out for if they are concerned about their loved ones and the care they are receiving. Recognizing these signs early can help individuals protect their loved ones.
Seeking legal help is important if you suspect the abuse of a loved one in a nursing home. A nursing home abuse attorney in Pittsburgh can offer the legal advice needed to recover compensation for all the hardships the victim and their family had to go through.
Here are the common signs of neglect or abuse that you should look out for.
1. Unexplained Physical Injuries
Unexplained physical injuries are one obvious sign of abuse. Look for cuts, bruises, or injuries that cannot be clearly explained. Residents of nursing homes can suffer from physical abuse like slapping, hitting, or being restrained against their will.
Unexplained or frequent physical injuries can also be a sign of neglect, especially if the staff cannot provide a reasonable explanation. If the injuries are disproportionate to the circumstances or your loved one shows fear towards a specific staff member, it can be a sign of intentional harm.
2. Sudden Behavioral Changes
Any sudden change in the behavior of a loved one is a red flag. If a loved one who was previously social and calm becomes anxious, withdrawn, or fearful, it can be an indication of abuse.
Nursing home residents might experience threats, verbal abuse, or intimidation by their caregivers, which could cause significant distress. Look for signs of agitation, depression, fear, or confusion, especially around certain people. These behaviors are usually a result of mistreatment, though they can be elusive and difficult to notice.
3. Poor Personal Hygiene or Unkempt Appearance
Neglect can be seen through the poor personal hygiene of a loved one. If they are constantly dirty, wearing soiled clothes, or have body odor, it can be a sign of a lack of necessary assistance by the caregivers.
Hygiene is an important part of daily care, and neglecting it can cause health problems like infections. Observe if your loved one is getting assistance using the restroom, bathing, and dressing. If these needs are unmet, it could be a sign that the staff in the nursing home are negligent or understaffed.
4. Bedsores
Pressure sores are another sign of negligence. They develop when an individual is left in one position without being moved or repositioned for a long time. Bedridden patients are vulnerable to bedsores, which can be avoided with attention and proper care.
If you notice blisters, redness, or open sores on a loved one’s skin, especially in areas like hips, heels, and lower back, it can indicate the nursing home’s staff’s failure to provide necessary care. Bedsores can cause severe infections and other complications if not treated properly.
5. Lack of Proper Nutrition or Hydration
Dehydration and malnutrition are other signs of neglect that have serious consequences for elderly residents. If a loved one appears weak, is losing weight, and has trouble staying awake, it could be a sign that they are not getting enough water and food.
Malnutrition can slow healing, weaken the immune system, and lead to other health problems. Check if your loved one eats regularly and whether it’s enough. If they often complain of hunger or thirst and are not provided with enough nutrition, it is a cause for concern.
What to Do if You Suspect Abuse
It is crucial to take action if any of these signs are present. Speak with the staff and ask for an explanation, and if not satisfied, seek professional help. A nursing home abuse attorney in Pittsburgh can help with the legal process, ensuring your loved one’s rights are protected. Legal actions usually involve a lawsuit for damages related to pain and suffering, medical expenses, and emotional trauma.
Your loved one’s safety should be a top priority. If you suspect negligence or abuse, take action immediately. A skilled attorney can assist you through the legal system and hold the responsible people accountable.
Conclusion
Nursing home negligence and abuse can affect the well-being of elderly residents. Knowing signs like sudden behavioral changes, unexplained injuries, bedsores, neglect of hygiene, and malnutrition can help identify problems earlier.
If you suspect mistreatment, contact a nursing home abuse attorney in Pittsburgh to explore legal actions and protect your loved one’s rights. They deserve the best care, and you should ensure they get it.