Three Signs Your Loved One Is Suffering Abuse From Neglect In A Nursing Home
No one wants to believe that their loved one is being abused in a nursing home, but it is more common than you may think. Of course, there are different forms of abuse, but one common form of abuse is that of neglect. This is a problem found in many nursing homes and it can become serious that your loved one's health is in danger. The following are three signs that your loved one is being neglected.
Your loved one has persistent bed sores
This is often not considered as abuse by many people, but it can result in serious health problems and can even put your loved one's life in jeopardy, especially if the neglect occurs over a long period of time. Bedsores are actually ulcers that are created from prolonged pressure to the ski. For elderly people, it is usually the result of being bedridden and not being able to move their body. But bedsores can easily be prevented simply by changing the position of your loved one's body every few hours. Granted, the elderly are often prone to bedsores, but if the staff is doing their job, they should not be present. But if they do appear, they must be treated because they can lead to further health complications.
Your loved one has lost weight
Unless there has been a recent diagnosis of a medical condition that might explain weight loss, it is entirely possible that your loved one is simply not getting enough food. There can be an undiagnosed medical problem that explains this weight loss, but barring that, it could be a case of neglect. Why your loved one is not getting enough to eat may be related to your loved one's need for assistance in being fed, and the staff is simply not spending enough time during meal time to make sure enough calories are consumed. But there are other possibilities as well. The important thing to remember is that even with the elderly, weight loss is not normal.
Your loved one's hygiene is sub par
Obviously a lack of bathing is a serious issue and is always a case of neglect, but there are a wide range of issues that fall under the category of hygiene. Examples include fingernails growing too long, hair that is not washed or combed, and dentures that are never cleaned. These may seem like minor issues, but they can be signs of a greater problem of neglect.
If you suspect your loved one is being being neglected and is displaying any of the signs listed above or any other suspicious signs, then contact a lawyer immediately for more info. Attorneys with experience in nursing home abuse will be able to evaluate your observations and advise you on the best course of action.
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