As our loved ones get older, they often require 24-hour assistance as they can no longer take care of themselves. For most, deciding to move a loved one into an assisted living or rehabilitative facility is difficult as you entrust the staff to provide round-the-clock care. Unfortunately, there are times when caregivers do not provide a safe environment for residents as abuse and neglect are present. Abuse and neglect in nursing homes are harmful to the physical and mental health of older adults. If you suspect that your loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, it is imperative to consider all of your legal options with a proficient Washington, D.C. Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer. Keep reading to learn some of the most common signs of nursing home abuse and neglect.
What are the most common signs of nursing home abuse and neglect?
Unfortunately, the improper care of nursing home residents is common. However, a lack of medical care in an assisted living facility often has serious consequences, including death. It is important to know some of the most common signs of nursing home abuse and neglect to ensure your loved one is not being mistreated. The following include but are not limited to some of the common signs of nursing home abuse and neglect:
- Malnutrition
- Dehydration
- Bedsores and asphyxiation
- Infections
- Elopement
- Unexplained injuries
- Unsanitary conditions
- Isolation
- Sudden behavior change
- Emotionally withdrawn or agitated
- Reluctance to speak to family in front of caregivers
- Non-communicative
Older adults can experience physical, verbal, and emotional abuse. Physical abuse is easier to detect as there are typically unexplained injuries and visible signs of malnutrition. However, verbal and emotional abuse often go unnoticed as the nursing home staff is less likely to mistreat a resident in front of visitors. It is important to pay attention to whether your loved one has begun to act unusually such as biting when someone tries to touch them as this may point toward abuse. When a caregiver intentionally inflects an injury or fails to provide a resident with proper care, they must be held accountable for their careless actions.
If you notice any potential signs of neglect or abuse, you should take legal action as soon as possible. Generally, victims of nursing home abuse or neglect have three years from the date of the incident of the abuse to file a claim against the negligent nursing home facility. If you fail to do so, you will relinquish your right to take legal action in the future. To ensure you file a claim within the right timeframe, reach out to a dedicated Washington, D.C. nursing home abuse lawyer. Our firm is committed to helping our clients hold negligent nursing home facilities accountable. Allow our firm to fight on your behalf today!
