If you are concerned about possible abuse or neglect these are the signs to look for that something may be amiss:
Signs of neglect:
- Medical – has medication been skipped, or wrongly given? Is there access to a doctor on a regular basis?
- Sanitation – Is the nursing home clean? Is your loved one being cleaned regularly and appropriately?
- Health and Safety – Are there regular health and safety checks? Are there railings and non –slip floors? Does the food seem well prepared and appropriate?
Physical signs:
- Enforced enclosure
- Unreasonable restraint
In the above two cases nursing staff may state that enclosure or restraint are for the resident’s own welfare to keep them from harming themselves or others or from wandering away. You need to decide what is ‘reasonable’. Are staffing levels adequate enough that the residents could be monitored more closely without the need for enclosure or restraint?
- Unexplained injuries
- Frequent broken bones
- Open cuts and wounds
Emotional signs
- Residents injuring each other
- Withdrawal and isolation
- Unusual behavior
- Rapid weight loss
- Non reporting of illnesses or injuries
It is true that some of the above signs can be part of the natural degeneration from dementia. Keeping in touch with your loved one’s doctor regarding their medication and expected behaviors can help you determine these things as ‘expected’ or ‘suspicious’.
There really is no substitute for frequent visiting and talking to give you peace of mind that your relative is getting the best possible level of care. If you do suspect that abuse or neglect may be happening in the nursing home talk to your relative’s doctor and contact a lawyer.
This article is for informational purposes only.
Legal Website: Florida Probate Lawyer Adrian Philip Thomas, PA. Representing clients in Fort Lauderdale.