Our loved ones rely on long-term protective care to live their golden years with peace and respect. Unfortunately, the caregivers responsible for looking after the well-being of seniors do not always act with decency. Although elder abuse is prevalent in nursing homes around Reno and across America, it is rarely reported. In a survey of more than 2,000 nursing homes, nearly half of the residents reported that they were victims of abusive behavior, and almost all of the respondents reported that they either endured or witnessed neglect. This under-reporting makes it necessary for loved ones to understand the steps of identifying nursing home neglect.
In a study of over 2000 nursing home residents, 44% said they had been abused, and 95% said that they had either been neglected or witnessed staff neglect another resident.
Despite the alarming number of cases, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that just 1 out of 24 cases gets reported. The disparity between instances of elder abuse and formal complaints is a cause for concern. One of the primary reasons for the underreporting of elder abuse is due to the vulnerable position of the victims. Speaking up could bring fears of escalating abuse. Other victims may suffer from dementia or other mental decline, preventing them from having a sound mind to self-advocate.
Because of their vulnerability, the elderly depend on their loved ones to make things right. If you have a family member or loved one in a nursing home and suspect that they may be a victim of nursing home neglect or elder abuse, you need to act immediately.
How to Identify Nursing Home Neglect
Identifying nursing home neglect can be challenging as it doesn’t always leave a physical mark, and the victims may not show clear signs of distress. Often, signs of neglect and abuse are subtle and may appear as changes in behavior or physical condition over time. When you visit the nursing home, observe how the staff interacts with residents, including those other than your loved one.
Pay attention to the general atmosphere of the facility, noting if residents appear well-cared for or if there are signs of systemic issues.
The types of abuse that residents of nursing homes may experience extend beyond physical abuse. A recent study highlighted five subtypes of elder abuse and their estimated prevalence in nursing homes, which include:
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- Psychological abuse (33.4%)
- Physical abuse (14.1%)
- Financial abuse (13.8%)
- Neglect (11.6%)
- Sexual abuse (1.9%).
1. Psychological Abuse
Psychological abuse, also known as emotional abuse, is one of the most pervasive forms of mistreatment in nursing homes. This type of abuse can be particularly insidious because it often leaves no physical evidence, making it difficult to detect. It involves actions that cause emotional pain or distress, including verbal assaults, threats, intimidation, and harassment.
Signs of psychological abuse in nursing homes include:
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- Sudden changes in mood or behavior
- Withdrawal from social interactions
- Unusual nervousness or fear around specific staff members
- Depression or deflated self-worth
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2. Physical Abuse
Physical abuse in nursing homes is more straightforward to identify, though the abusers can still conceal it. This type of senior abuse includes any form of physical harm, such as hitting, slapping, pushing, or improper use of restraints. If your loved one suffers injuries and is reluctant to discuss them or seems to have conflicting explanations, it’s important to investigate further.
Signs of physical abuse in nursing homes include:
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- Unexplained bruises, cuts, or injuries
- Frequent hospital visits
- Signs of restraint marks on wrists or ankles
- Bloody or torn clothing
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Financial Abuse
Financial abuse occurs when someone illegally or improperly uses a resident’s money, property, or assets. This form of abuse can be perpetrated by staff members, other residents, or even family members. It’s crucial to review financial statements regularly and be vigilant for any inconsistencies. If your loved one seems confused about their finances or mentions missing items, take these concerns seriously.
Signs of financial abuse in nursing homes include:
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- Sudden changes in financial situations
- Missing belongings or cash
- Unauthorized withdrawals or changes in financial documents
- Bills for uncharacteristic services
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Neglect
Neglect is a failure to provide the necessary care, leading to harm or distress. This can include not providing adequate food, water, medical care, or personal hygiene assistance. Consider the state of your loved one’s living environment. Is it clean and safe? Do they appear well-groomed and appropriately dressed? Neglect can severely impact both physical and mental health, leading to a decline in overall quality of life.
Signs of neglect in nursing homes include:
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- Poor hygiene or dirty clothing
- Untreated medical conditions
- Malnutrition or dehydration
- Appearance of bedsores
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Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse in nursing homes, although less common, is a deeply distressing form of abuse that involves any non-consensual sexual contact or behavior. This type of abuse is particularly traumatic, and the victims may feel too ashamed or scared to speak out. It’s crucial to create a safe and supportive environment where your loved one feels comfortable sharing their experiences.
Signs of sexual abuse in nursing homes include:
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- Bruising around the breasts or genital area
- Unexplained sexually transmitted infections
- Sudden changes in behavior or increased anxiety
- Withdrawal from social activities
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What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Neglect or Elder Abuse
Given the frequency of abuse and the low number of formal complaints, it’s vital to take action if you suspect your loved one is being mistreated. Every day that the nursing home neglect goes unreported increases the risk of more abuse. Victims are often unable to report the abuse themselves, making it crucial for family members to intervene. After identifying nursing home neglect, it’s crucial to act immediately.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Report to Adult Protective Services (APS): Contact your local APS to report your concerns. They are equipped to investigate and address instances of elder abuse.
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your observations, including dates, times, and descriptions of incidents. Take photos if there are visible signs of abuse or neglect.
- Contact a Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer: After filing a complaint with APS, consult a lawyer specializing in nursing home abuse as soon as possible. Once the facility is aware of an investigation, it may attempt to destroy evidence or manipulate documents to cover up the mistreatment. A lawyer can help ensure that your loved one’s rights are protected and that justice is served.
Help From a Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer in Reno
The poor treatment from caregivers results in a loss of dignity for the elderly, who deserve our respect and care. By being vigilant and taking swift action, we can help ensure that our loved ones receive the proper care and protection they need during their golden years.
The compassionate and experienced staff at Jensen Personal Injury Law is ready to help restore your loved one’s quality of life. If you’re ready to hold an abusive caregiver or long-term care facility accountable, don’t hesitate. Contact a nursing home neglect lawyer today.