Contrary to popular belief, one in ten Americans aged 60 and above report having suffered some type of elder abuse. Sadly, a lot of elder abuse incidents remain unreported because of embarrassment, fear, or a lack of awareness of the warning signals.
This is especially concerning for those with their loved ones residing in nursing homes in Charleston, where they are supposed to receive proper care and support in their golden years.
Suppose you suspect that your loved one may be a victim of abuse in a Charleston nursing home. In that case, it’s crucial to hire a Charleston nursing home abuse attorney. These legal professionals have the resources and skills to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Most elders show symptoms that tell that they’re being abused in a nursing home. This article discusses five such signs.
1. Unexplained Injuries
The most obvious sign of abuse in a nursing home is unexplained injuries, such as bruises, cuts, or broken bones. While accidents can happen, frequent injuries without a reasonable explanation could be a red flag for physical abuse.
If a loved one suffers injuries that seem inexplicable that they struggle to explain or are unable to remember how they got them, it’s important to investigate further and seek legal help.
2. Changes in Behavior or Mood
Abuse doesn’t always leave visible marks – it can also manifest in changes in behavior or mood. Should a loved one unexpectedly exhibit signs of anxiety, depression, or withdrawal, it could be a sign that they are experiencing emotional or psychological abuse.
They may also seem afraid or uncomfortable around certain staff members. It’s important to take note of any changes in their behavior and try to get to the root cause.
3. Poor Hygiene and Unsanitary Living Conditions
It is the duty of nursing homes to provide hygienic living environments for their inhabitants. If you see that your loved one’s clothes are stained, their room is regularly dirty, or they maintain poor personal hygiene, it may indicate abuse or neglect on the part of the nursing home staff. It is imperative to take quick action to treat neglect, as it is a kind of abuse that can result in major health problems.
4. Sudden Weight Loss or Dehydration
Elderly individuals in nursing homes may have specific dietary needs or require assistance with eating and drinking. If a person you love suddenly loses weight, experiences dehydration or malnutrition, it could be a sign that they are not receiving proper care and attention from the staff. This neglect can also result in other health complications, such as infections or weakened immune systems.
5. Financial Exploitation
If your family member suddenly has unexplained financial transactions or changes in their will, it could be a sign of economic exploitation by the nursing home staff. This type of abuse can happen when caregivers take advantage of elderly individuals who may have cognitive impairments or are unable to manage their finances independently. Monitoring your loved one’s finances and looking out for any suspicious activity is essential.
Final Thoughts!
Protecting your loved ones in Charleston nursing homes requires you to be aware of the warning signs of elder abuse. Engage a nursing home abuse lawyer as soon as you can and bring up the matter with the facility’s administration if you observe any of these warning indicators.
Your loved one deserves to be treated with respect, dignity, and proper care in their golden years. Don’t let them suffer in silence. Take action and ensure that they are safe and well-cared for in their nursing home.
