According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, which was established by the U.S. Administration on Aging, elder abuse affects about 10 percent of all senior adults living in community settings, like nursing homes. Many suspect that the incidence rate is likely higher given that abuse often goes unreported.
The NCEA defines elder abuse as occurring in several main ways: physically, psychologically, verbally, through neglect and financial exploitation, and even sexually. None of this is remotely acceptable. There are many resources available if you or someone you know suspects a senior family member, friend or acquaintance is the victim of nursing home abuse.
The first step in protecting them is to immediately remove them from danger and to contact a qualified elder care attorney to gauge appropriate actions. Waiting is not an option! Vulnerable Older Americans may be defenseless against their abusers and nursing home cases are subject to statutes of limitations that vary from state to state.
Nursing home abuse and improper care is a major public concern and there are numerous state and federal laws and regulations providing avenues of recourse when violations occur. You have to know what to look for before you can take any protective measures. Bear in mind that abuse is not always obvious.
Keep an eye out for stark changes in an older loved one’s behavior and personality or any unusual tension between them and a nursing home caregiver. It’s often a tell-tale sign. Other warning signs can include:
- Bruises, welts or more serious injuries that aren’t easily explained.
- Refusing to be alone with a particular caregiver.
- Refusal of a caregiver to leave you alone with your elderly loved one.
- Witnessing inappropriate, controlling or threatening behavior from a staff member.
- Leaving an elderly person alone for too long.
- Unsafe living conditions, such as an unusually hot bedroom.
- Elderly residents who are poorly dressed for weather conditions.
- Bedsores, dehydration and dirty or unsanitary clothes and bedding.
Put simply, elder abuse is the mistreatment or harming of an older person. It’s wrong and it happens more often than you might realize.
We want you to know that there is help available. Do not wait to contact our office with your questions on this or any other elder law matter. Also, do not wait to contact the authorities if you suspect a senior adult is the victim of abuse!