What are Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?

What are Signs of Nursing Home Abuse?


If you have an elderly loved one in an Ohio nursing home, it is critical that you learn the signs and symptoms of nursing home abuse and neglect. You should know that signs and symptoms can vary widely, and not all seniors who are subject to the same kind of nursing home abuse will experience the same symptoms.

A senior who is suffering physical abuse will have different warning signs than a senior who has been subjected to emotional or psychological abuse. Similarly, an elderly nursing home patient who suffers injuries due to passive neglect will display different signs than a senior who sustains injuries from sexual or physical abuse at the same facility.

A report from U.S. News & World Report provides information about some of the major signs of nursing home abuse and neglect that should raise a red flag. If you see any of the signs we are about to discuss, or if you have the slightest sense that something is not right, you should seek advice from a nursing home abuse lawyer at DworkenLaw.com.

Physical Injuries

Any physical injuries or changes, including cuts, bruises, broken bones, bedsores, signs of malnutrition, or a general unkempt appearance should be taken extremely seriously.

Changes to a Senior’s Emotional State 

If you notice any shifts in a senior’s emotional state, which may include losing interest in activities that were once enjoyable, or acting withdrawn, you should do more to learn whether emotional or psychological abuse may be to blame.

Refusal to Answer Questions or Deflecting

A senior who refuses to answer questions about his or her condition or care, or who deflects questions about well-being in the facility or a particular staff member, may be suffering abuse.

High Rate of Staff Turnover at the Nursing Home

Any nursing home with a high rate of staff turnover might have issues concerning nursing home abuse or neglect. 

Indications of Understaffing 

Many injuries from passive at nursing homes occur because the facility is understaffed. If you see signs of understaffing, such as calls going unanswered, or patients not receiving regular care, you should seek advice from an attorney.

Limited Improvements Made at the Facility Over Time 

Most high-quality nursing homes will make improvements to the facility on a regular basis. If your elderly loved one has been in a facility where no improvements are ever made, it could be a sign of poor care.

General Bad Feeling

In general, if you get a bad feeling in the facility, you should absolutely trust your instincts.

Seek Advice from an Ohio Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer 

Nursing home abuse and neglect can result in devastating injuries to elderly residents. No one should receive a poor quality of care in a nursing home or assisted-living facility, regardless of whether the harm is intentional or a result of unintentional negligence.

If you have an older parent or other relative in a nursing home in Ohio, and you have concerns about nursing home abuse or neglect, you should learn more about options for filing a lawsuit. An experienced Ohio nursing home abuse attorney can speak with you today about your case. Contact Dworken & Bernstein for more information about how we can assist you.

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