Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

No one deserves to endure any kind of abuse, especially a vulnerable elderly person who is residing in a nursing home to receive care and living assistance. But nursing home abuse is an unfortunate reality for some residents. To protect your loved one, make sure you know some of the signs of elder abuse and how to spot them.

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Understanding the Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

Types of Elder Abuse

There are multiple types of elder abuse that may occur within a nursing home. The following are the most common types of abuse.

Physical abuse
Emotional abuse
Sexual abuse
Neglect or abandonment
Financial exploitation

Below are some possible signs of physical and sexual abuse.

Unexplained bruising, cuts, sprains, or fractures
Obvious fear about a certain person or the nursing home in general
Depression and anger
Unexplained sexually transmitted diseases
Changes to a will or new financial loans
Isolation

While physical abuse and neglect or abandonment can be the most life-threatening, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and financial exploitation are often extremely detrimental to an elderly person within a nursing home, and can cause serious health and emotional implications for the victim. In some cases, your loved one’s life may even be in danger.

Some signs of nursing home abuse are more evident and obvious than others. According to the Administration on Aging (AOA), some warning signs of nursing home abuse include the following unexplainable injuries or maladies.

Fractures
Bruises
Welts
Sores
Cuts
Sexually transmitted diseases

Other signs of nursing home physical or sexual abuse might be these reactions or evidence.

Fear around certain people
Broken eyeglasses or frames
Signs of being restrained (such as bruises or rope marks)
Report of a drug overdose

Signs of sexual abuse can be read in the following.

Unexplained sexually transmitted infection
Bruising or bleeding in the genital area
Torn or bloodied undergarments

Emotional abuse might include some or all of the following.

Verbally berating the elderly person
Depression and other mental health detriments
Changes in personality or behavior such as withdrawing from normal activities or changes in alertness
Isolation, either self-imposed or imposed by staff of the facility

Signs of Nursing Home Neglect and Abandonment

Neglect is usually characterized by the following.

Lack of proper hygiene
Untreated bed sores or pressure ulcers
Lack of medical aids
Lack of food
Lack of social stimulation
Leaving an elderly person who requires constant care unsupervised

If an elderly person has unexplained weight loss, for example, it might indicate a lack of food.

Signs of Financial Exploitation

In terms of financial abuse, look for these signs.

Frequent and large withdrawals from bank accounts
New loans
Changes to a will or trust
A loss or lack of personal property

These can all be signs of financial abuse within a nursing home. In addition to observing the physical and emotional health of your loved one, be sure to keep an eye on his or her finances as well.

Case Results

Confidential

Nursing home vulnerable adult medication overdose wrongful death in Pierce County.

$5,000,000

Negligence, neglect, and abandonment litigation against the State of Washington, DSHS, and Brighton Enterprises, Inc by Guardian for Vulnerable Adult

$4,755,555

Neglect and abandonment litigation against the State of Washington, DSHS, and Brighton Enterprises Inc by Guardian for Vulnerable Adult

Our Approach to the Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

At Ron Meyers & Associates, we are deeply committed to safeguarding the rights and well-being of our elderly loved ones living in nursing homes and care facilities. Our approach to addressing the common signs of nursing home abuse is rooted in empathy, expertise, and unwavering dedication.

Empathy and Compassion

We understand the emotional toll that discovering nursing home abuse can take on families. It’s distressing to think that a place meant for care and comfort could become a source of harm. That’s why we approach each case with compassion and empathy. We listen to your concerns, validate your experiences, and ensure you and your loved ones are treated with respect and sensitivity throughout the process.

Legal Expertise

Our team comprises skilled attorneys who specialize in personal injury law and elder abuse cases in the state of Washington. We have a deep understanding of the legal complexities surrounding nursing home abuse cases. We use our legal expertise to thoroughly investigate the situation, gather evidence, and build a strong case on behalf of your loved one.

Advocacy for Victims

Our approach is centered on advocating for the rights of nursing home residents who have suffered abuse. We’re not just legal representatives; we’re champions for those who cannot always speak up for themselves. We work tirelessly to hold accountable those responsible for the abuse and seek justice and compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial suffering endured by your loved one.

Collaboration with Families

We believe in the power of collaboration. Your insights and observations as family members play a crucial role in building a case. We work closely with you to ensure that your loved one’s story is heard, their rights are protected, and their best interests are served.

Seeking Compensation and Closure

Our ultimate goal is to secure the compensation your loved one deserves. We understand that nursing home abuse can result in medical expenses, emotional trauma, and a diminished quality of life. By pursuing legal action, we aim to alleviate the financial burden and seek justice for the pain caused.

Educating and Raising Awareness

In addition to legal representation, we are passionate about raising awareness of nursing home abuse issues within our community. We believe that education is essential in preventing future cases of abuse. We share knowledge, resources, and information to empower families and ensure that they are equipped to recognize and report abuse.

At Ron Meyers & Associates, we stand by your side to confront nursing home abuse head-on. We are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of the elderly and their families by pursuing justice and helping to prevent further instances of abuse.

If you suspect nursing home abuse or have concerns about your loved one’s well-being, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Together, we can take meaningful steps to protect your loved one and hold wrongdoers accountable for their actions. Your loved one’s safety and dignity are our top priorities.

How Ron Meyers & Associates Can Help with the Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

What to Do if You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse

If you believe that an elderly person in a nursing home in Olympia is in immediate danger, you should call 911. If you do not think that the danger is immediate, but do suspect abuse, you should report the abuse as soon as possible to the proper authorities, such as the OPD.

If you think that an elderly loved one is being mistreated in an Olympia nursing home, filing a lawsuit can help your loved one recover the compensation that he or she deserves. In Washington, the statute of limitations for pursuing a personal injury case is three years from the date of injury, so get started now.

Ron Meyers & Associates PLLC, will fight to make sure that your family receives compensation for damages. To speak with one of our legal team members today, reach us now at 844-920-2438.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

Common signs of nursing home abuse include physical indicators like unexplained bruises, cuts, sprains, or fractures, as well as emotional signs such as depression, fear, or anger. Sexual abuse can manifest as sexually transmitted diseases or other related injuries. Financial exploitation may involve frequent and large withdrawals from bank accounts or changes to wills and trusts. Neglect is often characterized by poor hygiene, untreated bedsores, and lack of proper medical care or food.

Elder abuse in nursing homes can take various forms, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect or abandonment, and financial exploitation. These forms of abuse can cause significant harm and suffering to vulnerable elderly residents.

If you believe an elderly person in a nursing home is in immediate danger, call 911. If you suspect abuse but don’t believe it’s an emergency, report the abuse as soon as possible to the appropriate authorities, such as the local police or adult protective services agency. Prompt reporting is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of the elderly resident.

To protect your loved one, stay involved in their care. Visit them regularly, talk to staff, and observe their physical and emotional well-being. Be vigilant for signs of abuse, including unexplained injuries or changes in behavior. Ensure they have open lines of communication with you. If you suspect abuse, take immediate action by reporting it and seeking legal assistance.

If your loved one has suffered nursing home abuse, you may have grounds for legal action. You can pursue a personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation for their damages, including medical expenses and emotional trauma. Consult with an attorney experienced in elder abuse cases to explore your legal options.

In Washington, the statute of limitations for pursuing a personal injury case, including nursing home abuse cases, is typically three years from the date of injury. It’s crucial to act promptly if you suspect abuse to ensure your legal rights are protected.

Ron Meyers & Associates PLLC specializes in personal injury law and elder abuse cases in Washington. Our experienced legal team can guide you through the legal process, investigate the abuse, and help your loved one seek compensation for damages. We are dedicated to ensuring justice is served and holding those responsible for the abuse accountable for their actions.