Signs Of Nursing Home Abuse
Detecting abuse is the first step in putting a stop to it. Here are some signs to look for:
SIGNS OF PHYSICAL ABUSE
- Unexplained injuries like bruises, welts, scars, scratches, cuts, etc...
- Broken bones, sprains, or dislocations
- Reports of drug overdoses or failure to consistently take medication (Left over pills)
- Signs of being restrained, such as wrist marks
- Caregiver's hesitation to leave you alone with the elder for fear of being told on
SIGNS OF NEGLECT
- Poor and deteriorating hygiene, e.g., slovenly appearance, stained and torn clothing, dental problems etc...
- Dirty or uncut finger and or toe nails
- Odor of feces and or urine on resident or in bathroom
- Bed Sores and Ulcers typically on buttocks, heels, elbows and shoulder blades
- Unexplained rapid weight loss from malnutrition and dehydration
- Failure of the staff to respond quickly when you page them
- Frozen Joints from lack of physical therapy and or movement
- Unsanitary conditions
- Recurring infections and injuries
- Resident being kept in over-medicated state
SIGNS OF VERBAL AND EMOTIONAL ABUSE
- Fear of contact
- Helplessness/Resignation
- Implausible Cover Up Stories
- Unexplained Anger
- Fear of Talking Openly
- Confusion or Disorientation
- Depression
- Increased Anxiety
- Increased Agitation
- Wanting to be isolated from others
- Unusual behavior (biting, rocking)
SIGNS OF SEXUAL ABUSE
- Unexplained Venereal Diseases
- Bruising around breasts, abdomen, or thighs
- Torn and or stained undergarments
- Pain or itching in the genital area
- Odd comments about sex
SIGNS OF FINANCIAL ABUSE
- Sudden large withdrawals from bank accounts or changes in banking practices
- Abrupt changes in financial documents
- Loss of resident’s possessions
