Making the decision to place your loved one in a nursing home is difficult. But what happens if you suspect nursing home abuse? There are several key warning signs of nursing home abuse, which include:
MALNUTRITION
Is your loved one losing weight between visits? Try to access a feeding schedule or report. If staff members are unable to explain the weight loss through current medication or a refusal to eat, you may be facing bigger problems.
AGITATION OR WITHDRAWAL DURING VISITS
If your loved one has become emotionally withdrawn, depressed, or non-communicative during visits, it could be a sign of something serious. Speak to nurses and other staff members to see if they’ve noticed a change in mood. It may also help to keep a journal of your visits for later recollection.
UNEXPLAINED INJURIES
While elderly men and women in nursing homes may be easily bruised or injured, consistent and unexplained injuries are cause for concern. At the very least, your loved one may be suffering from neglect. At worst, your loved one may be fighting intentional abuse.
UNSANITARY CONDITIONS
There is no excuse for unsanitary conditions in a nursing home. Pay close attention to the level of cleanliness during your visits. Do you find yourself tidying up? Does your loved one seem uncomfortable? Feel free to ask around. Staff members should welcome questions and concerns. If their answers don’t put you at ease, it may be time to speak to management or a personal injury attorney.
SUDDEN CHANGES IN BEHAVIOR
Is your loved one suddenly afraid of certain people, sudden movements, or loud noises? If so, your loved one may be fearful of an abuser. Try to find time alone to ask important questions. These questions may include, “Are you comfortable here?” or “Is there anything you need to tell me?”
INABILITY TO MEET IN PRIVATE
A huge sign of nursing home abuse is a refusal of staff members to allow you to meet with your loved one in private. They may fear retribution for physical or emotional abuse. If your loved one seems eager to speak alone, insist. If staff members repeatedly refuse, contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
CONTACT AN EXPERIENCED ARIZONA PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY FOR ASSISTANCE
Our team is dedicated to the safety and well-being of your family and has years of experience in handling nursing home abuse cases. We’ll handle filing paperwork, meeting deadlines, and building your case so that you can focus on spending time with your loved ones. Call an Arizona personal injury attorney at (602) 648-4045.
