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Nursing home abuse is a growing problem in Georgia nursing homes and assisted living facilities. However, if you can recognize the signs of abuse, then you can help stop it before it worsens.
Here is a list of the telltale signs of nursing home abuse:
Bedsores: Bedsores are a preventable injury caused by prolonged pressure on skin. Bedsores happen when a resident is not rotated, turned, cleaned, or attended to properly. It is also a very good indicator that the resident is being neglected. Bedsores should almost never occur.
Weight Loss: Losing weight, particularly in a short amount of time, is a good indicator that the resident is not being attended to appropriately.
Dehydration and Malnutrition: Dehydration is a condition in which the resident does not receive an appropriate amount of water. Unfortunately, this condition is common and can cause serious life-threatening conditions, including renal failure. Malnutrition occurs when the resident does not receive adequate vitamins and minerals. Obviously, malnutrition is a strong indicator that the resident is not being cared for.
Broken Bones and Abrasions: Falls happen and not all falls are preventable. Still, nursing homes owe a duty to prevent falls within reason. This includes taking assessments of individual residents and applying preventative measures. However, sometimes the staff does not follow this assessment, or is otherwise careless in moving the resident. As such, broken bones can be a sign that this has occurred.
Attitude Change: A sudden onset of unusual behavior may be an indicator of emotional, sexual, or physical abuse. Due to incapacity or fear, the resident is unable to express this directly to family. As such, the resident experiences behavioral changes. These should be cues to the family that something may be wrong.
If your loved one is a resident of a Georgia nursing home and is exhibiting any of these signs, then please, do not hesitate, call and speak to one of our experienced nursing home abuse lawyers today. Our consultations are always free.
