The Most Overlooked Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

When your loved one moves to a nursing home, you expect them to be lovingly cared for and looked after. But imagine that you notice they have unexplained bruises and seem depressed and withdrawn. What’s going on?

Unfortunately, nursing home abuse is more common than many believe. Whether the abuse is deliberate or because of understaffing or another cause, there is no excuse for it.

If you suspect your loved one is being abused in a nursing home, Littlejohn Law in Columbia, South Carolina, wants to help. Your attorney can also help those living in Richland County, Allendale, Jasper, Orangeburg, and Hampton.

Mysterious Injuries

It is a warning sign if you visit your loved one and they have an unexplained bump or bruise. It is common for nursing home staff to get frustrated with residents, and they may lash out. Any legitimate accident that caused a bump or bruise should have been reported.

Also, it is estimated that 1,800 older Americans living in nursing homes die from falls in nursing homes every year. Falls are not usually caused by abuse, but neglect also can be an issue.

Deteriorating Mental Health

Nursing home abuse and neglect can leave your loved one with emotional and mental scarring. You may notice your mother or father has become withdrawn when you visit. Or, you might see them become afraid when a certain caregiver enters the room. They may be afraid to mention what is happening out of fear of repercussions.

You also should take notice if your loved one is no longer caring for themselves as well as they should. Abuse can lead to feelings of depression and hopelessness, which can cause us to stop caring for ourselves.

Sudden Weight Loss

Some nursing home residents may have a medical problem causing weight loss. But a sudden decline in weight without explanation is a cause for concern. The nursing home may not be taking the time to feed your loved one on the schedule. Or, they might be upset about abuse and neglect and refuse to eat.

Bedsores

If your mother or father is in their wheelchair or bed a lot, they must be rotated often to prevent bedsores, also called pressure ulcers. If you see a lot of bedsores, it’s a clear sign that they are not getting the care they need.

Look for bedsores on your loved one’s tailbone, lower back, back of the head, shoulder blades, and heels.

If you suspect your loved one is being abused or neglected in a nursing home, the first thing to do is report it to the administrator right away. Next, report the incident to the South Carolina Department of Social Services. Then, contact a personal injury lawyer.

Speak to Our Columbia Personal Injury Attorney Today

If you think your loved one suffered abuse in a nursing home, you don’t need to tolerate such a horrifying situation. You can be entitled to compensation under South Carolina law. Littlejohn Law in Columbia, South Carolina, can review your case today. Contact us now.