Elder abuse comes in many forms and happens regardless of gender, income level or ethnicity. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, “elder abuse is a term referring to any knowing, intentional, or negligent act by a caregiver, or any other person, that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to a vulnerable adult.” It can be difficult for family members and loved ones to identify the signs of nursing home abuse, and often residents are unable or unwilling to report mistreatment.
Common forms of nursing home abuse include physical, sexual, emotional and psychological abuse, abandonment, neglect or financial exploitation. Older adults can suffer assault, battery or even rape or can be humiliated, threatened, ignored or isolated against their will. Forms of neglect can include withholding food, water and medication or failing to take care of a resident’s hygiene needs such as changing the bedding.
According to the Nursing Home Abuse Center, signs of abuse to look for include:
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Broken bones
- Open wounds, bed sores or cuts
- Burns or abrasions
- Sudden weight change
- Infections, loss of hair
- Torn, stained or bloody clothing or bedding
As a personal injury and nursing home abuse lawyer, Scott Mullins is committed to protecting the rights of your loved ones in nursing homes and other vulnerable adults. Contact personal injury attorney, Scott Mullins for your free case evaluation.