Nursing homes should be places where the elderly and seniors are safe, well cared for, and treated with respect. However, in recent years, there has been a concerning rise in cases of nursing home abuse. This abuse can take many forms beyond the physical—it may involve emotional abuse, financial exploitation, or even unlawfully restraining residents. If you have a loved one in a nursing home, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and monitor their treatment closely. Below are some common types of elder abuse and signs to watch out for.
Types of Nursing Home Abuse
A study presented to the U.S. Senate in 2002 found that one-third of nursing homes in the country were found guilty of abuse between 1999 and 2002. Unfortunately, the study predicted that this abuse would only increase in the coming years.
Abuse in nursing homes can be subtle or overt, but it often falls into several key categories:
Financial Abuse: Staff members may take advantage of residents by stealing money or property, manipulating them into changing deeds or wills, or charging fake fees to drain their savings.
False Imprisonment: This occurs when staff prevent residents from moving freely, using intimidation, threats, or removing mobility aids such as wheelchairs or crutches.
Neglect: Failing to provide necessary care, such as assistance with eating, can result in malnourishment or even death. When neglect leads to serious harm or endangers a resident’s life, it qualifies as abuse.
Recognizing the Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Different forms of abuse come with distinct warning signs. Be particularly cautious if staff members at the nursing home seem reluctant to leave you alone with your loved one, or if their personality has suddenly and drastically changed.
Here are some specific signs of various types of abuse:
Physical Abuse: Look for broken bones, bedsores, bruising, sudden weight loss, malnutrition, dehydration, or marks left by restraints.
Sexual Abuse: Signs can include the contraction of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), unusually aggressive behavior, unexplained fear around specific individuals, or false dementia symptoms.
Financial Abuse: If you notice suspicious changes in legal documents like deeds or wills, new mortgage agreements, missing personal property, or unusual bank withdrawals, your loved one may be a victim of financial exploitation.
What to Do if You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse
If you suspect nursing home abuse, taking immediate action is essential to protect your loved one. Here’s what you should do:
1. Verify the Information
First, confirm the details of the situation. Speak with other residents who seem coherent, go over the situation with your loved one, and document any visible injuries or unusual behavior. Taking photos of injuries or changes, and gathering medical records, can be important for evidence.
2. Consider Relocating Your Loved One
If you’re concerned about your loved one’s safety, it may be necessary to transfer them to another facility.
3. Report the Abuse
Most states, including Massachusetts, require reporting elder abuse once you have reasonable cause to believe it’s happening. Contact the district attorney or the police to begin a formal investigation. If the authorities find that the evidence points to criminal behavior, charges may be filed against the facility.
4. File a Complaint
File a complaint with Massachusetts’ Adult Protective Services or social services to ensure that your concerns are properly investigated.
5. Hire a Worcester Nursing Home Injury Lawyer
It’s essential to have legal representation from an experienced attorney specializing in elder abuse or nursing home law. A skilled Worcester nursing home injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and ensure justice is served.
Filing a Legal Claim Against a Nursing Home
Nursing homes are expected to maintain high standards of care, but it’s crucial to take legal action when abuse or neglect occurs. Filing a lawsuit against a nursing home can be complex and challenging, which is why having an experienced lawyer on your side is so important.
At Kevin P Landry Law Offices, we are committed to helping families when their loved ones have been harmed. If you suspect abuse or neglect in a nursing home, don’t wait—contact our Worcester office at 508-799-9600 for a free initial consultation. We will work with you to ensure that your case is handled with care and that your loved one receives the justice they deserve.
