The warning signs of nursing home abuse include unexplained injuries, sudden behavioral changes, poor hygiene, fear of staff members, and recurring bedsores. Some warning signs, such as cuts or bruises, are easy to spot, while other signs are more subtle.
If you have a loved one in a nursing facility, it’s important to stay alert for signs of abuse. If you suspect something is wrong, report it right away. You may not only protect your family member but also help put an end to a pattern of harm that affects other residents in the facility.
It is easy to feel intimidated if you suspect nursing home abuse, but your actions matter. Our Atlanta nursing home abuse lawyers have recovered millions in compensation, and we can help you through this difficult time. Call today to schedule a free consultation.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse in nursing homes involves intentionally using physical force against a resident. This can include actions like hitting, pushing, or improperly using physical restraints. Although physical abuse often causes pain or injury, visible injuries are not necessary for an act to be considered abuse.
Warning signs of physical abuse:
- Bruises, scratches, cuts, or broken bones with no explanation
- Injuries at various stages of healing
- Marks on wrists or ankles
- Flinching or showing fear when touched
Emotional or Psychological Abuse
Emotional or psychological abuse includes verbal or non–verbal actions such as shouting, threats, and intimidation that lead to fear, emotional distress, or mental health issues.
Even without physical injury, these behaviors can significantly impact a person’s mental and emotional health.
Warning signs of psychological abuse:
- Sudden withdrawal or depression
- Fear or anxiety around specific staff members
- Low self-esteem or loss of interest in activities
- Mood swings or unexplained crying
Neglect
Neglect happens when a nursing facility does not provide the necessary care. This can be deliberate or caused by systemic problems like understaffing. Even if not intentional, neglect is a serious breach of duty that can lead to severe physical and emotional harm for residents.
Warning signs of neglect:
- Poor hygiene or dirty clothing
- Dehydration, malnutrition, or weight loss
- Frequent bedsores
- Untreated medical issues
- Unsafe or unsanitary living environments
Sexual Abuse
Any form of non–consensual sexual contact, including unwanted touching or coercion, is considered sexual abuse. This type of abuse is especially serious when the victim cannot give consent due to cognitive impairment, physical limitations, or vulnerability.
Warning signs of sexual abuse include:
- Injuries in the genital area
- Torn, stained, or missing underwear
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Sudden fear or trauma when touched or approached
Financial Abuse and Exploitation
Financial abuse involves the unauthorized or improper use of a resident’s money, property, or assets. This can include stealing, forging signatures, coercing financial decisions, or accessing bank accounts without permission.
Here are some warning signs of financial abuse:
- Unusual or unexplained activity in a bank account
- Missing checks, credit cards, or valuables
- Sudden changes to wills, deeds, or financial documents
- Unpaid bills despite having sufficient funds
What Should You Do if You Notice Warning Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?
If you notice any of the warning signs of nursing abuse or neglect, act immediately. Tell the staff on duty what you’ve observed, but don’t stop there. Take steps to inform the appropriate people to ensure your concerns receive the attention they deserve.
Inform the Administrator
The administrator can immediately investigate the abuse. In fact, they are considered mandatory reporters in Georgia, which means they are legally required to report suspected abuse.
Alert the Ombudsman
The county ombudsman is an advocate for residents who can investigate your concerns and involve the appropriate authorities if necessary.
Report Your Suspicions to the Division of Aging
Even if you make a report to the administrator and ombudsman, if you see signs of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, you should make a report to the Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services.
Document What You Saw
It is easy to lose track of important details, especially in such an emotionally charged situation. Documenting the incident can help you keep your facts straight. Note what signs you saw, what you suspect happened, who you told, and who you believe may have been involved.
Speak with an Attorney
A knowledgeable elder law attorney will know the best ways to handle your concerns, how to protect the rights of the resident, and where to go for help. Your attorney may also help you pursue compensation through civil action.
Get Help if You See Signs of Nursing Home Abuse
Sometimes, the warning signs of nursing home abuse or neglect are apparent, such as when you notice bruises, marks on wrists, or sudden changes to your loved one’s bank account.
However, some signs of abuse are harder to recognize, and some perpetrators are very clever in their methods. Always be on the lookout for signs of abuse, no matter how much you think you can trust the facility. Then, if you see something, take action to protect your loved one.
The legal team at Schenk Nursing Home Abuse Law has been exclusively practicing nursing home abuse law for nearly 10 years. We’re here to support you when you find warning signs of nursing home abuse or neglect.
Call today for a free consultation.
